Guide
What is a Sworn Translation in Spain?
If you are dealing with Spanish authorities, universities, or courts, you may have been asked for a traducción jurada — a sworn translation. This guide explains what it is, who can issue one, and when you need it.
Quick answer
A sworn translation in Spain is an official translation of a document certified by a translator appointed by Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAEC). Only MAEC-appointed translators can issue sworn translations that are legally valid for official use in Spain.
What makes a translation 'sworn'?
The 'sworn' designation comes from the translator's formal appointment (habilitación) by the MAEC. When an appointed translator certifies a translation, they are asserting under their professional responsibility that the translation faithfully reproduces the content of the original. This certification is what gives the translation official legal weight.
Who can issue a sworn translation in Spain?
Only translators who hold a current appointment from Spain's Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación (MAEC) can issue sworn translations valid for official use in Spain. The list of authorised translators is published on the MAEC website and is searchable by language pair.
Is it the same as a certified translation?
No. 'Certified translation' is a term used in other countries (especially the UK and US) to describe various levels of translation assurance. In Spain, the legally recognised term is traducción jurada, and it has a specific legal meaning tied to the MAEC appointment system.
When is a sworn translation required?
Spanish authorities, notaries, courts, registries, and universities require sworn translations whenever an official document is in a language other than Spanish. Examples include: immigration applications, nationality proceedings, property purchases, civil registry inscriptions, university admissions, and court proceedings.
Checklist
- Your document is in a language other than Spanish
- The receiving authority is a Spanish government body, court, notary, or university
- The translation must be prepared by a MAEC-appointed translator
- The translation must include the translator's certification statement and MAEC appointment number
- Digital signatures are accepted since Orden AUC/213/2025 (March 2025)
Related document types
Related procedures
Common questions
This guide is general information only. Requirements can vary by authority, procedure, country of document issue, and document type. Always check the specific instructions from the authority handling your case.
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