A sworn translation is a translation made by a translator authorised after taking an oath before a notary public, and attested with that translator's stamp and signature. As a rule, a sworn translation is required for documents to be submitted to official institutions, courts and consulates.
The official value of a translation comes not only from linguistic accuracy but from preserving the formal integrity of the document and from names and dates matching the source document exactly. At BKT we translate documents for use in consultancy files knowing what the receiving institution expects.
Who is it for?
- Foreigners applying for a residence permit, work permit or citizenship
- Those using a document from abroad in Türkiye
- Those using a document obtained in Türkiye abroad
- Parties submitting documents to a court or enforcement file
- Businesses setting up a company with foreign shareholders
- Students applying for university enrolment and equivalence
Required documents
The list below is for a typical case. Additional documents may be requested depending on your nationality, the type of application and the practice of the relevant authority; the definitive list is given to you in writing at the initial consultation.
- The original of the document to be translated, or a legible scan
- An identity document showing the spelling of names as in the passport
- The institution the document will be submitted to
- Any earlier translations (for terminological consistency)
- Details of any apostille or legalisation required
The process step by step
- 1
Document review
The type and language of the document and the institution it will be submitted to are established, and the required level of certification is determined.
- 2
Translation
The translation is produced by a translator specialised in the field, faithful to the layout of the source document.
- 3
Check
The exact accuracy of names, dates, numbers and institution names is checked in a second reading.
- 4
Stamp and signature
The translation is attested with the sworn translator's stamp and signature.
- 5
Delivery
Printed and digital delivery is made; if notarial certification is required, the process continues.
Common mistakes
- Allowing the spelling of a name to differ from the passport
- Having a translation made without stating the institution it is for
- Settling for a sworn translation alone when notarial certification is required
- Sending an illegible scan and creating a risk of errors in numbers and dates
- Obtaining the apostille after the translation for a document that requires one
Legal basis
Notaries Act No. 1512 and the provisions of the Notaries Act Regulation on translation procedures
Legislation and administrative practice may change. The information on this page is for general guidance only; an assessment specific to your case requires a consultation.