What you need to know about Sworn Translations in Poland
Who is a sworn translator?
A sworn translator is a person who has completed appropriate linguistic and specialist postgraduate university degrees then passed the state examination (of notorious difficulty)* and was entered on the list of sworn translators maintained by Poland's Ministry of Justice.
*Here is a quirky fun fact: becoming a sworn translator in Poland indeed requires passing a demanding exam, and that exam follows gruelling biannual postgraduate training. This aims to ensure a decent quality of official sworn translations in Poland. At least... since 2005. That state exam was introduced by the Act on the Profession of Sworn Translator of 25 November 2004. This Act came into force on 27 January 2005. Prior to this date, sworn translators were appointed by the Ministry of Justice without the need to pass an exam.
It is important that your sworn translator has the appropriate formal qualifications as well as experience and expertise in the field to which your translation relates. You may wish to let POZENA Multilingual competently manage your sworn translation needs.
Polish Sworn Translations (Polish to/from any language)
In Poland, all legal formalities involving foreign-language documentation require Sworn Translations. Popular sworn translations include deeds, contracts, birth/death certificates, marriage/divorce certificates, hospital paperwork, insurance documentation, education diplomas, court decisions, employment contracts, and many more.
Not all professional translations are sworn. Only those needed for official use and made by government-approved sworn translators - including ours - have the appropriate legal standing in Poland. While the sworn product is important and popular for its specific official applications, most enterprise translations are appropriately non-sworn.
Certified Translations (in all languages)
Meanwhile, intriguingly, Certified Translations play no part at all in Poland's administrative system. These are never accepted and never requested in the domestic market.
Instead, certification is a concept successfully applied in many international jurisdictions, making POZENA Multilingual's Certified Translations an incredibly useful tool for your international business.
These translations carry a written confirmation by POZENA Multilingual to attest we indeed produced them professionally, i.e., according to the principles established in the localization industry. Our Certified Translations may thus involve any two world languages, including or not including Polish, and they make an attractive product that is in high demand, especially by our British and American clients.
(As long as you're not trying to use these at any government office in Poland. For that, and only for that, you do need our Sworn Translation product, not Certified. Which comes in paper and digital variants, as discussed below).
Forms of sworn translations: paper and digital
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The sworn translation with the translator's seal takes paper form. Traditionally, this has been "the" Polish sworn translation.
Only the stamped translation has legal force in Poland. Should you require more pieces of the same translation - official multiples ("odpisy") - are available and attractively priced if ordered with the original purchase.Any self-made paper copies or digital scans have no legal force. It follows that paper sworn translations will not be successful if you try to use them digitally.
Confusingly, in fact we sometimes provide clients electronically with scans of their paper sworn translations. These are non-legal but provided for information purposes only: they arrive faster than paper and allow clients to perhaps take advantage of their contents before the arrival of the actual thing. Some recipient government offices may start their desired procedures based on a scan, and simply accept the official paper translation for the file later.
Should you require more than one legally valid piece of the same sworn paper translation, official multiples ("odpisy") are available for order. They are attractively priced when ordered with the original purchase. -
The sworn translation with translator's qualified digital signature is a secure pdf file. This variant is perfect for handling official matters via the Internet, such as e-mail or Poland's excellent digital "ePUAP" system.
However, if you try to print it out - which will be possible, they are not locked from printing - any printouts will have no legal force in Poland. Digital sworn translations will only be accepted in their digital form, in Poland at least.
Please note that both forms of sworn translation - the paper and the digital - have equal legal standing. You may find, however, that the particular Polish government institution of your interest has a preference, making one of the variants inconvenient or unfeasible. Please do check with the intended recipient before ordering.
Source mark of sworn translations: "made from the original document" and "made from a digital copy of the document"
Each Polish sworn translation - paper or digital - contains information, whether made from the original source document or its digital copy such as a scan or a photo.
To be able to translate "from the original document", in accordance with Polish law, we must obtain from you the very physical original paper document for inspection (we return the original promptly). And clear scans or even smartphone photos are normally enough to translate "from a copy".
In order to secure yourself an enjoyable and successful experience of interaction with your chosen government institution in Poland, may we suggest that you check with the latter, before placing your order for sworn translation, which variants of the product - paper or digital; "from original" or "from copy", would be suitable in your case.
Ordering and receiving sworn translations from us
For thirty years we have offered sworn translations with unrelenting enthusiasm, realizing the value they bring our clients who need them.
While the rules and regulations around this formal product may feel a little complicated and confusing, we will be delighted to un-tangle this for you through our dedicated service provided by trained colleagues.
To start off, please fill in our quick and straightforward form using the "Get a Quote" button below. Should anything remain unclear, we will be in touch promptly to discuss and advise.
Your chosen variant may involve manual signatures, rubber stamps and the physical circulation of paper documents - or the simple, modern, fast and secure electronic provision. In either case, we will work to make it as easy and secure for you to order the correct variant you require and receive your product as soon as feasible, both in Poland and in any country globally.
Frequently asked questions about sworn translations
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What is a sworn translation?
Sworn translation is a specialized type of translation performed by a professional translator with additional special rights granted by the Polish Ministry of Justice. It serves to handle formal matters in government offices.
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Does POZNEA offer sworn translations?
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In what circumstances do I need a sworn translation in Poland?
Certified translations are required when submitting documents to government institutions, courts, offices, or notaries. Examples include civil status acts, legal documents, notarial deeds, and diplomas.
For other cases, particularly in most commercial applications, we recommend more appropriate types of written translations, which we present here.
Here, we showcase information about our specialized translations for specific industries and sectors of the economy.
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How do I find a sworn Polish transaltor?
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How do sworn translations cost?
The cost of a sworn translation depends mainly on the size of the source text. This is a product of a traditional nature; the way of calculating the fee is regulated by longstanding laws, based on a "billing page" calculated at 1,125 characters and spaces. (It's a fascinating industry oddity on a European scale.)
Additionally, the cost includes the text added by the sworn translator during the procedure.
Other price components are the transport options selected by the client and desired additional "copies" with legal standing.
At POZENA, we also email the client a scan of their paper translation. The scan does not have legal force, but the client can receive it faster than the paper original, which is often appreciated. T
Complicated? No problem. Just send your inquiry, and we will provide a free calculation and present an attractive offer.
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How long does it take to make a sworn translation?
The completion time of each project at Centrum Językowe POZENA depends on the scope of work involved. However, our team works diligently and efficiently to ensure that translations are completed in a timely manner.
Unfortunately, the logistics of paper documents may cause delays. Physical originals may be required for written translations, and some products may require a paper format.
Centrum Językowe POZENA utilizes top-notch courier services to expedite the process, guaranteeing next-day delivery throughout Poland to any specified address or parcel locker. Nonetheless, it's important to consider the estimated completion time listed in our free offer while perusing our services.
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Can the whole process be done online?
Yes. One of the product variants is entirely digital.
One option for sworn translation - digital translation made from a digital source - involves you sending us just a clear electronic version of your document (scan or photo). We will produce the translation as a signed pdf file and send it to you by email.
Under Polish law, the digital sworn translation is equal to the traditional paper form. Still, it may be worth checking the acceptance of each at your intended government institution.
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What is the difference between a sworn translation and a "normal" one?
A sworn translation is carried out by a certified translator who has been granted authorization by the Ministry of Justice. It is marked with the translator's signature and seal (or it can be a digitally signed pdf), giving it legal power to handle formal matters in government offices.
A non-sworn professional translation is an excellent faithful product with many advantages of its own. However, it cannot be used to specifically handle official matters in government institutions.
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Can any translator make sworn translations?Only a professionally trained translator who is authorized by the Ministry of Justice can perform sworn translations. Sworn translators mark their products with their official seal and identification number (or a digital signature on an electronic document).
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Does my sworn translation have to be on paper?
Traditionally, sworn translations are executed on paper, stamped and signed by a sworn translator.
In Poland, there is also an option to have a sworn translation done using a qualified electronic signature. Such a translation comes in a PDF format and is perfect for digital document circulation, for example, when dealing with matters through the ePUAP system.
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Do Polish sworn translations have an expiry date?
No. They only have a completion date.
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What do you call sworn translations in Polish?
The colloquial name for a sworn translation is "tłumaczenie przysięgłe".
The formal name is "tlumaczenia poświadczone". -
Are sworn translations more expensive than regular ones?
It depends.
We offer at least 4 product tiers of regular translations, outlined here. Each level includes different components and potentially comes with a different price tag.
Sworn translations are subject to their specific method of fee calculation under the law; it's not straightforward to determine whether they are cheaper or more expensive than modern standard translations.
However, you can easily find out the price for your project by sending your inquiry.
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Is a sworn translation better than a regular one?
Swearing an oath doesn't necessarily make a translation superior to its non-sworn professional counterpart.
In formal and official settings, however, sworn translation is the only feasible choice and is therefore offered in such cases.
The superiority of sworn translations is a fascinating urban myth, as many clients tend to request sworn translations even when don't need them, assuming that it will result in a higher quality output.
A specialized translation conducted by a professional translator who's an expert in the respective industry may be a more appropriate product.
Selected advantages of our sworn translations
Professionalism and precision
Clients of POZENA Multilingual use sworn translation services, which are performed by professional sworn translators with appropriate authorizations and experience. Thanks to the professionalism and precision of translations, clients can be sure that the sworn translations received are reliable and will be accepted by institutions requiring such documents.
Speed of execution of orders
POZENA Multilingual is aware of the importance of time for clients, so it offers sworn translation services in short terms. The speed of execution of orders results from the experience of sworn translators, effective project management and the use of modern technological tools. POZENA customers can count on the timely delivery of sworn translations, even in the case of urgent orders.
Confidentiality and data security
Customers of POZENA Multilingual rest assured of confidentiality and data security throughout the entire sworn translation process. POZENA applies security procedures and protects personal data and business information in the documents provided. Sworn translators must maintain professional secrecy, ensuring the confidentiality of the materials provided.
Flexibility and a wide range of services
POZENA Multilingual offers flexibility and a wide range of sworn translation services, adapting to the needs and requirements of customers. POZENA provides sworn translations in various languages and for many sectors of the economy. Thanks to the flexibility and a wide range of services, clients can use sworn translations regardless of language, document type or specialization.
Individual approach to the client
Each client of POZENA Multilingual is treated individually, and their needs and expectations are considered when providing sworn translation services. We find time to talk to you about your project. This allows you to adapt the service to specific requirements, ensure proper communication and quickly address any questions.
Competent customer service
POZENA Multilingual attaches great importance to the quality of customer service, providing services at the highest level. Competent customer service ensures that questions, doubts or needs are handled quickly and efficiently. Customers can count on support at every stage of cooperation with POZENA – from the first contact, through the implementation of the order, to any questions or consultations after the end of the translation service.
Attractive prices and cost transparency
POZENA Multilingual offers sworn translation services competitively, giving customers value for money. POZENA takes care of the transparency of costs, providing customers with detailed information on the valuation of services and possible additional fees. This gives clients full control over their budget and can predict the costs associated with sworn translations.
Long-term cooperation and relationship building
POZENA Multilingual focuses on long-term customer relationships, offering them the benefits of many years of cooperation. Long-term cooperation with POZENA allows for a better understanding of the customer's needs and provides even higher-level services.
Technological support and innovative solutions
POZENA Multilingual uses modern technologies and innovative solutions in sworn translation. Thanks to this, customers are offered services at the highest level, using CAT software, project management systems or online cooperation platforms. Investing in technology allows POZENA to execute orders effectively, shorten translation time and provide customers with modern solutions that facilitate communication and cooperation.
Extensive experience and a rich client portfolio
POZENA has extensive experience in providing sworn translations for various sectors of the economy, institutions and individual clients. The rich portfolio of clients testifies to the trust that POZENA enjoys in the market of sworn translations in Poland and beyond. Customers can be sure they work with an experienced and reputable sworn translation provider who will understand their needs and provide services at the highest level.
Selected industrial applications of our sworn translations
Polish sworn translations for enterprise
Sworn translations for companies are necessary when translating official corporate documents such as contracts, statutes, financial statements or customs documents. POZENA Multilingual has extensive experience in sworn translations for business clients, offering them comprehensive services at the highest level. The team of POZENA experts combines language competence and expertise, allowing for precise and reliable translations of corporate documents. Project management is crucial for success, and POZENA takes care of every aspect of this process, guaranteeing the timely execution of orders and full satisfaction of business customers.
Polish sworn translations for retail (consumers)
Sworn translations for private persons include the translation of documents of a personal nature, such as diplomas, certificates, certificates or court documents. At POZENA Multilingual, experienced certified translators offer sworn translation services for individual clients, ensuring the highest quality and precision. Thanks to professional project management and the use of valuable expressions, the POZENA Multilingual occupies high positions in organic searches and thus ensures the satisfaction of its customers. Sworn translations for private persons are necessary for many situations, such as applying for a visa, legalizing documents or court proceedings. By cooperating with us, individual clients can count on the timely execution of orders and the support of our experts in formal and legal matters. Our team of sworn translators has the necessary skills and knowledge to provide professional sworn translations that meet all the requirements and expectations of private clients.
Polish sworn translations for public institutions
Public institutions often need translations of sworn documents of an official nature, such as legal acts, regulations or international agreements. POZENA Multilingual cooperates with various public institutions, offering them professional sworn translations of the highest quality. Our team of sworn translators has extensive knowledge and experience in official translations, which allows them to quickly and accurately translate even the most complex texts. By focusing on professionalism and reliability, POZENA gains the trust of public institutions and helps them achieve their goals in the international arena.
Polish sworn translations for the real estate sector
The real estate sector requires sworn translations for many documents, such as purchase and sale contracts, lease agreements, notarial deeds, certificates or zoning plans. POZENA Multilingual offers sworn translation services tailored to the specific needs of real estate (property investment) clients. Sworn translators of POZENA have language skills and knowledge in the real estate field, allowing them to translate documents from this sector accurately. We guarantee confidentiality, reliability and timely execution of orders, meeting the expectations of clients from the real estate sector.
Polish sworn translations for the medical sector
In the medical sector, sworn translations are sometimes needed for medical certificates, medical documentation or research protocols. POZENA Multilingual is aware of the key role sworn translations play in this sector, which is why it offers services at the highest level, considering the specificity of medical terminology. Experienced POZENA sworn translators use their skills and knowledge to provide sworn translations that meet the requirements of medical clients. Attention to detail and high quality of service make this product enjoy unflagging customer recognition.
Polish sworn translations for the legal sector
S sworn translations are crucial in the legal sector, as they concern documents such as contracts, power of attorney, notarial deeds or court judgments. POZENA Multilingual is aware of the importance of these translations, which is why it offers high-quality services that meet clients' expectations from the legal industry. Our sworn translators have not only in-depth linguistic knowledge but also knowledge of legal specifics. By cooperating with POZENA, legal sector clients can count on timely and precise translations that will comply with applicable law.
Polish sworn translations for the technical sector
In the technical sector, sworn translations may concern patents, certificates, technical specifications or operating instructions. POZENA Multilingual is aware of the unique role played by sworn translations in this sector, which is why it offers services at the highest level, taking into account the specificity of technical terminology. Experienced POZENA sworn translators use their skills and knowledge to provide sworn translations that meet the requirements of technical clients. Due to the attention to detail and high quality of services, POZENA Language Centre is a reliable partner for technology companies.
Polish sworn translations for the financial sector
In the financial sector, sworn translations are necessary for financial statements, balance sheets, credit agreements or audits. POZENA Multilingual, thanks to its experience and professionalism, offers sworn translation services that meet clients' expectations from the financial industry. Our sworn translators, in addition to language proficiency, have knowledge of finance, which allows them to translate financial documents accurately. Project management at the highest level guarantees timely and reliable translations, corresponding to the needs of financial sector clients.
Polish sworn translations for education
In the educational sector, sworn translations are necessary for documents such as diplomas, certificates of completion of studies, school certificates or curricula. POZENA Multilingual, considering the unique needs of clients from the educational industry, offers sworn translation services at the highest level. Experienced sworn translators of POZENA have language competence and knowledge in the education field, allowing them to translate educational documents accurately. Due to the attention to detail and high quality of services, POZENA Multilingual is a partner worthy of trust for clients from the education sector.
Polish sworn translations for administration
In the administrative sector, sworn translations are key in documents such as civil status records, administrative decisions, certificates or applications. The POZENA Multilingual, thanks to its professionalism and experience, offers sworn translation services that meet the expectations of customers from the administrative industry. Our sworn translators have language proficiency and administration knowledge, allowing them to translate administrative documents accurately. Project management at the highest level guarantees timely and reliable translations, corresponding to the needs of customers of the administrative sector.
Polish sworn translations for the technology sector
In the technological sector, sworn translations are necessary for documents such as patents, technical specifications, certificates or license agreements. POZENA Multilingual offers sworn translation services tailored to the specific needs of technological clients. Sworn translators of POZENA have language skills and knowledge in technology, allowing them to translate technological documents accurately. We guarantee confidentiality, reliability and timely execution of orders, meeting the expectations of customers from the technology sector.
Polish sworn translations for the construction sector
In the construction sector, sworn translations are necessary for contracts, construction projects, building permits or certificates. POZENA Multilingual offers sworn translation services tailored to clients' specific needs from the construction industry. Sworn translators of POZENA have linguistic competence and knowledge in the construction field, which allows them to translate construction documents accurately. We guarantee confidentiality, reliability and timely execution of orders, meeting clients' expectations from the construction sector.
Sworn translations for local governments
In the local government sector, sworn translations are necessary for documents such as resolutions, regulations, protocols or applications for co-financing. POZENA Multilingual offers sworn translation services tailored to the specific needs of local government clients. Sworn translators of POZENA have linguistic competence and public administration knowledge, allowing them to translate local government documents accurately. We guarantee confidentiality, reliability and timely execution of orders, meeting customers' expectations from the local government sector.
Polish sworn translations for culture and art
S sworn translations are essential for documents such as contracts in the arts and culture sector. POZENA Multilingual offers sworn translation services tailored to clients' specific needs from the cultural and artistic industries. Sworn translators of POZENA have linguistic competence and knowledge in culture and art, allowing them to translate documents related to this sector accurately. We guarantee confidentiality, reliability and timely execution of orders, meeting customers' expectations from the cultural and art sectors.
Polish sworn translations for education
The education sector requires sworn translations for many documents, such as certificates, diplomas, curricula or other educational materials. POZENA Multilingual offers sworn translation services tailored to the specific needs of clients from the educational industry. POZNENA's Sworn translators have competence and knowledge in the field of education, which allows them to accurately translate documents from this sector. We guarantee confidentiality, reliability and timely execution of orders, meeting customers' expectations from the education sector.
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