Sworn Spanish Translation for Nigerian Citizens: What You Need to Know
A Sworn Spanish translation for Nigerian citizens engaging with Spain for education, work, family reunification, or business is often essential. Sworn translations ensure your documents are legally recognized in Spain, bridging language and legal system barriers effectively. This blog explores scenarios where Nigerian citizens might require sworn translations, the translation process, and how to streamline the procedure.
What is a Sworn Translation?
A sworn English-Spanish translation is an official, certified translation performed by a sworn Spanish translator accredited by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAEC). The sworn translator’s signature and seal validate the accuracy and authenticity of the translation, making it legally binding in Spain.
Sworn Spanish Translation for Nigerian Citizens: when is it required?
As a Nigerian citizen, you may need sworn translations in various situations:
1. Academic Purposes
If you are a Nigerin citizen pursuing higher education in Spain, universities and other institutions will require sworn translations of:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Letters of recommendation
Sworn translations confirm the legitimacy of your qualifications in Spain’s educational framework.
2. Immigration Procedures
Sworn translations are crucial when applying for Spanish residency, work permits, or visas. Commonly translated documents include:
- Birth certificates
- Police clearance certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Medical certificates
- Affidavits or sworn declarations
For students, visa applications often require sworn translations of proof of enrollment and financial support.
3. Legal Matters
Nigerians dealing with legal procedures in Spain, such as inheritance or divorce, need sworn translations for:
- Divorce decrees
- Last wills and testaments
- Power of attorney documents
These translations ensure your legal documents comply with Spanish jurisdiction requirements.
4. Business and Corporate Filings
If you’re setting up a business or subsidiary of your Nigerian company in Spain, authorities will require sworn translations of:
- Articles of incorporation
- Memorandums of association
- Financial statements
This step ensures your company complies with Spanish legal and financial regulations.
The Sworn Translation Process
Step 1: Identify the Documents
Determine which documents you need for your specific application, whether academic, legal, or business-related. It’s essential to clarify this with the relevant Spanish institution or consulate.
Step 2: Choose a Qualified Sworn Spanish Translator
Hire a translator certified by the MAEC to ensure your translations meet legal requirements. If you’re working with us, we specialize in English-Spanish sworn translations and guarantee accuracy and compliance.
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Share clear and legible copies of the original documents. If your documents include handwritten sections, ensure they are legible.
Step 4: Translation and Certification
Your sworn translator will translate the document and affix their signature, seal, and certification. This step legally validates the document in Spain.
Step 5: Apostille or Legalization
In some cases, you may need to legalize the original document with an apostille under the Hague Convention. Nigerian documents often require this additional step before translation.
Step 6: Delivery
Receive your sworn translations, ready for submission to Spanish authorities. Some translators offer both digital and physical copies for convenience.
Tips to Simplify the Process
- Plan Ahead: Translation and legalization can take time. Start the process early to avoid delays in your application.
- Provide Complete Information: Share all necessary details with your translator to avoid errors or omissions.
- Work with Experts: Choose a translator experienced in sworn translations for Spain to ensure quality and compliance.
Why Choose Me?
I am a Sworn English-Spanish Translator appointed by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2003. With more than 20 years of experience, I specialise in sworn and legal English-Spanish translations, offering expert services for immigration, education, and legal documentation. I provide seamless, accurate translations to support your goals in Spain.
If you’re ready to get started, contact me at info@vprspanishtranslations.com or using this form for personalized assistance. Let me simplify your journey to Spain!
USEFUL LINKS
Embassy of Spain in Nigeria: https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Embajadas/abuja/en/Paginas/index.aspx
Consulate General of Spain in Lagos: https://www.exteriores.gob.es/Consulados/lagos/en/Paginas/index.aspx
Sworn / Legal English-Spanish Translator with 20 years of experience in legal translation. BA in Translation & Interpreting and Graduate Diploma in English Law. Specialising in trusts, contracts, company documents and civil litigation documents. Traductora jurada y jurídica de inglés 20 años de experiencia en la traducción jurídica. Licenciada en Traducción e Interpretación y Graduada en Derecho inglés. Especializada en trusts, contratos, documentos societarios y escritos y documentos para procesos civiles y mercantiles.