Is a Digital Sworn Translation Valid in Spain?

What changed in March 2025?

Orden AUC/213/2025 was published in the BOE on 7 March 2025. It formally established that sworn translations certified with a qualified electronic signature have the same legal validity as those certified with a physical stamp. Previously, some authorities took inconsistent positions on digital translations.

What is a qualified electronic signature?

A qualified electronic signature (firma electrónica cualificada) is the highest level of electronic signature under EU law. It is created using a certificate issued by a qualified Trust Service Provider (QTSP) and is legally equivalent to a handwritten signature under eIDAS Regulation (EU) 910/2014. Only a small number of certificates qualify — a simple digital signature or email signature does not.

What format must the signed document be in?

Under Orden AUC/213/2025, the digital signature must cover the entire document in PAdES format (PDF Advanced Electronic Signatures). This means the original document image and the translation must be contained within a single signed PDF that cannot be modified without invalidating the signature.

Are all Spanish authorities accepting digital translations?

Most are, following the publication of the Orden. However, some individual offices or officials may not yet be familiar with the regulation. If a specific office asks for a physical copy, the translator's digital signature certificate and a reference to Orden AUC/213/2025 should resolve the issue.

Checklist

• The translation is a PDF signed with a qualified electronic signature
• The signature is in PAdES format covering the entire document
• The translator holds a current MAEC appointment
• The translation includes the translator's MAEC appointment number
• The signature certificate was valid at the time of signing

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