Sworn translations

The Dutch Sworn Court Interpreters and Translators Act has been in force since 1 January 2009. That Act replaces old legislation on sworn translators and provides, among other things, that a large group of customers in the field of justice and the police must use sworn interpreters and translators in the context of criminal law and immigration law. One of the instruments in the implementation of the Act is the Register of Sworn Interpreters and Translators (the Register). All sworn interpreters and translators are listed in the Register.  

Since as far back as the 19th century, it has been obligatory for certain translations to be made by a sworn translator. This often applies to translations of documents with an official or legal status. If required, a customer can have the court verify on the basis of the signature whether the translation had actually been made by a sworn translator. That inspection is known as authentication.

What is a sworn translation?
A translation printed out on paper and inextricably attached to the translated text, stamped and initialled on each page by the sworn translator and accompanied by a statement from the sworn translator that the translation is complete and has been made in good conscience.

Of what type of documents are sworn translations made?
Diplomas, lists of marks, certificates, residence documents, certificates of good conduct (VOG), notarial deeds such as wills, prenuptial agreements, deeds of incorporation, amendments to articles of association, divorce decrees, extracts, etc.

How should I submit a text for translation?
You may bring the original round in person or send it to me by post. If you only have one copy of the original document and cannot request a new copy, it is better to use a photocopy of the original for the sworn translation. It is then best to scan the original and send it to me via the contact form.

Can I also take a photo of the text and send it for translation?
No, only scans in PDF at 100% size can be used for a sworn translation, photos do not suffice. The image must be printed and therefore be of high quality, because it has to be attached to the sworn translation.

How do I receive the sworn translation?
Within the Netherlands, sworn translations are sent as a letterbox package with track & trace or by registered post. The sworn translation may also be collected in Eindhoven at an agreed date and time. It is also possible to receive a scan of the sworn translation by e-mail.

In which languages does 040taaldiensten provide sworn translations?
Sworn translations of Dutch documents into English and of English documents into Dutch. For other language combinations, I am pleased to refer to colleagues or to the register for sworn translators (https://www.bureauwbtv.nl/tolk-vertaler-zoeken/).

What is included in the statement from the sworn translator?
That the translation is complete and has been made in good conscience. The statement makes no representations about the authenticity of the translated document.

How much time does a sworn translation take?
That depends on the amount of text to be translated. In general, a document of 1-2 pages can be translated and sent within 1 working day.

Can I also do the translation myself and have it certified by 040taaldiensten?
No, that is not how it works. A sworn translation is a translation carried out by a sworn translator. I do not place my stamp and signature on a document that I have not translated myself.