Frequently Asked Questions – Sworn & Standard Translations in Geneva

1. What is a certified translation?

A certified translation is a translation accompanied by a declaration from a sworn translator (traducteur-juré) attesting that the translation is accurate and complete. It includes the translator’s stamp and signature.

2. What’s the difference between a certified and a standard translation?

The quality is the same. The difference lies only in the formal requirements of the recipient authority. Some authorities require a sworn translator’s stamp and a certification statement; others don’t.

3. How do I provide my document to the translator?

Each case is different. In general, a clear scan of your document is sufficient. However, depending on the purpose of the translation and the requirements of the receiving authority, specific procedures may apply. Please get in touch with the translator to determine the best method for submitting your document.

4. How will I receive the certified translation?

By default, certified translations are printed on paper, bearing the translator’s official stamp, handwritten signature, and date. This is the standard format accepted by Swiss authorities.

As a courtesy, I usually send a scanned copy of the final translation by email, allowing you to double-check all names, dates, and spellings before the document is dispatched. The certified document is then sent by priority mail at no extra cost.

Alternatively, a digitally certified version (PDF with a qualified electronic signature) can be provided by email upon request. This option is faster and fully valid in Switzerland and the EU. The cost for this option is CHF 5.

5. How much does a certified translation cost?

In Geneva, the minimum rate per certified translation is CHF 85. For more details, refer to the official pricing guidelines.

6. What is legalisation or an apostille?

Legalisation is a procedure that makes a document legally valid abroad by authenticating the official’s signature and seal. There are two types of legalisation, depending on the destination country:

• Apostille: for countries that are members of the Hague Convention.

• Consular legalisation: for other countries.

In Geneva, apostilles and legalisations are issued by the Chancellerie d’État.

7. Do I need an apostille or legalisation?

If your certified translation is intended for use outside Switzerland, some authorities may require an apostille or legalisation of the translator’s signature.

In Geneva, this is handled by the State Chancellery (Chancellerie d’État). The apostille is a stamp that confirms the authenticity of the translator’s signature for documents intended for countries that are members of the Hague Convention.

Apostilles are only necessary if requested by the destination authority. Not all certified translations require legalisation.

More information (in French) from the Geneva State Chancellery: ge.ch/legaliser-document.