Polish-Norwegian translations: when is a sworn translator needed?

Polish-Norwegian translations are a key element supporting communication between Poland and Norway in many areas of professional and private life. Whether you need translation of personal documents, contracts, or official acts, it is worth understanding what types of translations are available and when a sworn translation is required.

Before submitting a translation, check the requirements of the office

Before commissioning a translation, make sure whether the office to which you will deliver the document requires a sworn translation. In some cases, an additional annotation of compliance with the original (apostille) may be needed. This is particularly important in situations where documents are to be submitted to government institutions in Norway, such as UDI (Directorate of Immigration), DSB (Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning), or HK-dir (Directorate for Higher Education and Skills).

When contacting a translator, always inform them about the purpose of the translation and the specific requirements of the office. This can save time and costs, and also ensure that your documents will be accepted without additional complications.

Standard translation vs. sworn translation – what is the difference?

Standard translation is a translation of text performed by a translator that does not require authentication. It is used for materials such as websites, technical documentation, or private letters. In some cases, offices accept such translations. The translator determines the standard of the translation page – the number of characters usually ranges from 1400 to 1800.

On the other hand, a sworn translation (also known as an authenticated translation) is a translation certified with the seal and signature of a sworn translator, having legal force. A sworn translator must have previously passed a state exam, which guarantees excellent language proficiency (the official register of sworn translators of various languages is maintained by the Ministry of Justice). Sworn translations are generally required by offices and institutions in official matters, related for example to taxes, state benefits, reliefs, applications. It is specified that one translation page corresponds to 1125 characters. A sworn translator can also issue a copy of a previously performed translation, so it is not necessary to repeatedly commission the translation service for the entire document. The copy is also entered into the register of sworn translations, and therefore is additionally charged.

Translation services of both types of translations are offered by the company MultiNOR – click here to find out more.

The main differences between these types of translations include:

• Legal status: A sworn translation is considered an official document.
• Scope of responsibility: A sworn translator is legally responsible for the compliance of the translation with the original.
• Costs: A sworn translation is usually more expensive due to additional formal requirements.

These documents must be translated sworn

Not all documents require a sworn translation, but some of them are mandatory in certain situations. The list below includes the most commonly required documents:

• Civil status records (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates) for submission to UDI and other Norwegian immigration offices.
• Educational and professional documents (e.g., diplomas, certificates) to DSB and HK-dir in recognition processes.
• Vehicle registration certificate in situations requiring legalization of a vehicle imported from Norway.
• Sworn translation of these documents ensures their acceptance by Norwegian institutions and prevents rejection of applications due to formal deficiencies.