Sworn translation, does it have to be done by a translator in Germany?

Question

Can I get my documents translated by a certified translator in my home country, or does the German authority only accept translations from a sworn translator inside Germany?

Pasha A · Accepted Answer

This is a frequent and costly mistake, so confirm before you pay. General pattern:
• Many German authorities require translations by a translator who is publicly appointed/sworn in Germany (“in Deutschland öffentlich bestellt und beeidigt”). Translations from abroad are sometimes accepted, sometimes not.
• Some accept foreign translations if they are properly certified/legalized; others insist on a German sworn translator. It depends on the Bundesland and the document.
Before translating anything: ask your Approbationsbehörde in writing, “Do you accept translations by sworn translators from my home country, or must they be done by a translator sworn in Germany?” If unsure, using a German-sworn translator is the safe default that almost everyone accepts.

Amara O · Answer

i translated in my home country first and one authority did NOT accept it, had to redo with a german sworn translator. expensive lesson. ask them first

Sworn translation, does it have to be done by a translator in Germany?

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