Certified Translation in Italy: Requirements, Costs and Procedure

​Certified translation of official documents is often required for administrative, academic and professional purposes, especially when dealing with international institutions.

However, the meaning of “certified translation” varies depending on the country. In Italy, the concept of certified translation differs from other countries and must be clearly understood.

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What is a certified translation?

A certified translation is a translation accompanied by a statement of accuracy issued by the translator, confirming that the translated text faithfully reflects the original document.

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Unlike sworn translations, certified translations:

• do not require a court oath

• do not involve a public official

• are generally used for non-judicial purposes

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A certified translation is a translation carried out by a professional translator registered with the professional register of Translators and Interpreters of the Court or the Chamber of Commerce.

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Certified vs sworn translation in Italy

In Italy, the distinction is essential:

• Certified translation → confirms accuracy but has no legal value in itself

• Sworn translation (asseverata) → has legal value and is performed before a court

For official use in Italy or abroad, a sworn translation is often required.

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​Accuracy and precision in translations are very important. They ensure that all information is clear and understandable. They also maintain the integrity and validity of the content.

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It is important that every translated document complies with current standards and regulations. Any error can make the text difficult to understand. This can also reduce its effectiveness and importance.

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It is important to remember that different countries have specific requirements and rules for the certified translation of documents. It is therefore essential to check the requirements of the destination country or of the authority requesting the translation. A sworn translation  may be required.

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Certified translations in Italy, although they guarantee the accuracy and fidelity of the translated text, do not have legal value in the strict sense and cannot be legalised nor accompanied by an apostille. These translations are mainly used for internal administrative purposes and are not generally accepted for legal or official procedures at the international level for documents issued by Authorities. 

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Certified translations are often used when a document must be submitted to institutions or organisations that require a professional translation but not necessarily a sworn translation certified before the court.

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They may be required, for example, for:

• administrative procedures with foreign institutions

• documentation for universities or private educational institutions

• certificates and documents intended for informational purposes

• international business or commercial procedures

 

For documents that require legal validity, it is necessary to opt for a sworn translation.

Unlike a sworn translation, in a certified translation the translator does not sign the declaration before a court clerk. In a sworn translation, the official translator formally swears that the translation is accurate. In a certified translation, the translator personally confirms that the translation faithfully reflects the original document.

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In this context, the translator attaches a Certificate of Accuracy to the translation.

This document is a formal declaration issued by the translator confirming the correctness and fidelity of the translated text in relation to the original document.

Unlike sworn translations, certified translations do not require revenue stamps. 

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Important: different countries, different rules

Each country has its own requirements for certified translations.

In some countries, a certified translation is sufficient.
In others, a sworn translation or legalization may be required.

It is always important to verify the requirements of the receiving authority.

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Professional Certified Translation Services

Legal-linguistic expertise ensures that each document is not only accurately translated, but also compliant with Italian legal requirements. Our professionals have extensive experience in legal and official document translation. Our goal is to ensure that clients can rely on translations that meet their expectations and specific requirements.

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It is also important to remember that translations of official and legal documents should only be carried out by qualified and officially recognised professional translators.

Unlike sworn translations, certified translations do not require the translator to appear before a court to swear the accuracy of the translation. This offers several advantages, including faster delivery times and lower overall costs.

​ these expenses, making them a more convenient option in certain cases.