How to Verify a Sworn Translator in Spain

What is a sworn translator?

A sworn translator (traductor-intérprete jurado) is a professional who has been officially appointed by Spain's Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores, Unión Europea y Cooperación (MAEC). This appointment certifies that the translator has passed a formal examination and is recognised by the Spanish state as competent to produce translations with legal validity.

The appointment is language-pair specific. A translator appointed for English–Spanish cannot certify a French–Spanish translation under that appointment.

Why MAEC appointment matters

Spanish law requires that sworn translations submitted to official bodies — civil registries, immigration offices, consulates, universities, courts — are produced by a MAEC-appointed translator. Translations by non-appointed translators, however experienced, do not meet this requirement and will be refused.

This applies regardless of other qualifications the translator may hold: professional memberships, university degrees, translation certifications from other countries, or years of experience do not substitute for the MAEC appointment.

What information should appear on the translation

A valid sworn translation should contain:

• Full translation of the source document
• Certification statement in Spanish attesting to the accuracy and fidelity of the translation
• Translator's full name
• MAEC appointment number
• Date and place of certification
• Qualified electronic signature (since March 2025) or physical stamp and ink signature

How customers can check translator details

Every translation delivered through Traducet includes the translator's name and MAEC appointment number. You can verify the appointment directly on the MAEC website at any time by searching the official list of sworn translators.

Common questions