Certified translations

What is a certified translation?

In Luxembourg, a certified translation (also called a sworn translation or official translation) is a translation done by a translator who was appointed by the Ministry of Justice, has sworn an oath before the Superior Court of Justice of Luxembourg and is registered on the official list of sworn translators and interpreters held by the Ministry. A certified translation bears the signature (and usually the seal) of the translator who thus certifies that the translation is accurate. Certified translations are recognized as official documents by government authorities and courts in Luxembourg.

Which documents require a certified translation?

For many administrative proceedings, Luxembourgish authorities will require a certified translation of documents that are not in one of the country’s official languages (French, German or Luxembourgish):

• Recognition of foreign diplomas
• Residence and work permit applications
• Marriage of a foreigner in Luxembourg
• Recognition of foreign court decisions
• Naturalisation

Examples of documents for which a certified translation may be required:

• Birth, marriage and death certificates
• Criminal records
• Diplomas and transcripts
• Court decisions
• Witness statements
• Notarial deeds
• Company and trade register records
• Administrative certificates
• Powers of attorney
• Identity documents
• Police reports
• Last wills and testaments

Are certified translations accepted outside of Luxembourg?

Most of the time, yes, but since there are no general rules for the recognition of certified translations abroad, I recommend obtaining confirmation from the foreign authority that requests the translation. Sometimes, an apostille (legalisation of the translator’s signature) is required for certified translations to be used abroad. The apostille can be obtained at the legalisations office of the Luxembourgish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.