Quick Answer: Sworn Translation Requirements South Africa
Where a document is not in a language the receiving authority accepts, a sworn translation is normally required. This is a translation certified by a translator authorised to do so, not simply an accurate translation by a competent speaker.
In South Africa sworn translations are produced by translators sworn in before the High Court. A translation by an unaccredited person, however accurate, is generally not accepted. Requirements.co.za is an independent information website. It is not a translator, insurer, embassy or government department, and nothing here is immigration advice.
Who This Requirement Applies To
This guide is for anyone whose supporting documents are in a language other than that required by the authority deciding their application.
For birth certificates specifically, see Sworn Translation of Birth Certificate. For the legalisation chain, see Legalise Documents for Immigration.
Eligibility Requirements
Establish what the receiving authority requires before commissioning work, since requirements differ.
Applicant type
- Who may translate. Normally a sworn translator, in South Africa one sworn in before the High Court. Some authorities also accept translators accredited by recognised professional bodies.
- What is translated. Normally the whole document including stamps, seals and marginal notes, not only the main text.
- Certification. The translator normally attaches a signed declaration, and may affix a stamp.
- Order relative to legalisation. Some authorities require the original to be legalised first and then translated; others the reverse. Confirm before starting.
- Translation done abroad. May need to meet the receiving country own accreditation rules rather than South African ones.
Documents You May Need
The translator normally works from the original or a properly certified copy.
Required proof
- The original document, or a certified copy where the translator accepts one.
- The completed sworn translation with the translator declaration attached.
- Both the original and the translation, submitted together.
- Legalisation of either or both, where the receiving authority requires it.
Steps to Apply or Prepare
Confirm with the receiving authority which languages are accepted, who may translate, and whether translation precedes or follows legalisation.
Commission a sworn translator, giving them the complete document including every page and marking.
Submit the original and translation together, keeping copies of both.
Costs, Processing Times and Validity
Translators charge by document, page or word, and rates vary. Turnaround depends on length and demand. Where legalisation is also required, budget for both and sequence them in the order the authority expects.
Common Mistakes and Delays
Common mistake
- Using a competent but unaccredited translator, whose work is not accepted.
- Translating only the main text and omitting stamps, seals or notes.
- Translating before legalising where the reverse order is required.
- Submitting the translation without the original.
- Assuming a translation accepted by one country will be accepted by another.
Where to Confirm Official Requirements
Confirm what the receiving authority accepts before commissioning anything, since requirements differ by country and route. The Official Requirements Sources South Africa page links to the responsible bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sworn translation?
A translation certified by a translator authorised to produce it, in South Africa normally one sworn in before the High Court, accompanied by a signed declaration.
Can I translate my own documents?
No. Translations for official purposes normally have to be produced by an authorised translator, regardless of your own language ability.
Does the whole document need translating?
Normally yes, including stamps, seals and marginal notes rather than only the main text.
Should I translate before or after legalisation?
It differs by authority. Confirm the required order before starting, since doing it the wrong way round can mean repeating both steps.
Where can I confirm the requirement?
Confirm with the authority deciding your application.