Digital Sworn Translation in Spain

What is a digital sworn translation?

A digital sworn translation is a sworn translation (tradución jurada) certified with a qualified electronic signature instead of a physical rubber stamp. The translated document is a PDF signed using the translator's eIDAS-compliant certificate. The signature covers the entire document, ensuring no part can be altered without invalidating it.

The translator still takes full professional and legal responsibility for the accuracy of the translation — the only difference from a traditional sworn translation is the delivery format.

Is it valid in Spain?

Yes. Orden AUC/213/2025 Orden AUC/213/2025 (published in the BOE on 7 March 2025) established that sworn translations certified with a qualified electronic signature under Reglamento (UE) 910/2014 (eIDAS) carry exactly the same legal weight as a physical stamp for all official purposes in Spain.

• Consulates and embassies
• Oficinas de Extranjería (immigration offices)
• Registro Civil and Ministerio de Justicia
• Universities and academic institutions
• DGT (driving licence exchange)
• Notaries and registrars
• Courts and tribunals

What the signed PDF normally includes

Every sworn translation certified by a Traducet translator contains:

• Full translation of the source document
• Certification statement in Spanish: that the translation faithfully reproduces the original
• Translator's full name and MAEC appointment number
• Date and place of certification
• Qualified electronic signature (PAdES format) covering the entire document

How the digital signature works

A qualified electronic signature uses a certificate issued by a trust service provider authorised under the eIDAS regulation. When the translator signs the PDF, a cryptographic fingerprint of the entire document is embedded. Any subsequent change — even adding a space — would invalidate the signature.

The signature can be verified by any PDF reader (Adobe Acrobat, Foxit, etc.) or through the EU Trust List. You do not need any special software to read the translation — only to verify the signature cryptographically.

When a physical copy may still be requested

Some authorities — particularly outside Spain, or certain older in-person procedures — may still request a physical copy with an original signature. This is uncommon since 2025, but it can happen.

Always follow the instructions of the authority receiving your document. If you are unsure, ask the authority directly whether they accept digitally signed PDFs before ordering.

If a Spanish authority rejects a compliant digital translation on quality or certification grounds, we will review it and rework it at no charge.

Common questions