📄 Sworn translation

Apostille for a Swiss sworn translation

Foreign employers, universities and registries routinely ask for an apostilled sworn translation. Here is exactly how it works for this document — and how we take the whole errand off your hands.

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Where this document comes from — and which chancellery

An apostille cannot be affixed to a translation as such: it goes on the translator’s signature once a notary has authenticated it, in the notary’s canton. The order of operations is what matters. Apostille the original document first, then translate it including the apostille, then have the translation notarised and apostilled. Done the other way round, the translation omits the apostille text and several countries reject the file.

Original or certified copy?

Neither leaves your hands: a notary establishes a certified true copy from your uploaded PDF or photo, and the apostille is affixed to that copy — included in the price. If a destination exceptionally insists on the apostilled original, tell us and we organise it by registered mail.

Translation often required

An apostille authenticates, it does not translate. If the receiving authority also wants a certified translation of your sworn translation, mention it in the order notes — our partner network delivers both together.

The mistake that gets files refused

Translating first and apostilling afterwards. It feels natural and it is the wrong way round. If your translation is already done and the original is not apostilled, tell us — depending on the destination we may be able to save it, and if not, better to know now.

Frequently asked questions

Does the destination accept a translation made in Switzerland?
Often, but not always. Some countries only recognise translators registered with their own courts. Ask the receiving authority before commissioning anything — it is the single question that decides whether the work is usable.
Which countries accept an apostilled sworn translation?
All 130 Hague Convention Contracting Parties — from Germany to Brazil to China. For non-members (UAE, Qatar, Egypt…), the consular chain replaces the apostille; order normally and we quote the embassy stage first.
How long for a sworn translation?
Standard 1–2 business days from receipt, mostly the chancellery’s own turnaround. Same-day express doubles the service price and jumps every queue.
CHF 140 — Apostille — 1st document · CHF 120 — Apostille — from 2 documents · Prices →

Apostille for other documents

DiplomaBirth certificateMarriage certificateCriminal record extractCommercial register extractPower of attorneyDivorce judgmentCertificate of civil statusNotarised documentCertificate of residence

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