Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding the difference between Brazilian sworn translations and UK certified translations

1. What is a sworn translation in Brazil?

In Brazil, a sworn translation (tradução juramentada) is produced by a Public Translator and Commercial Interpreter (Tradutor e Intérprete Público) who is duly qualified under Brazilian law and registered with the relevant Brazilian Commercial Registry (Junta Comercial).

Translations produced by Public Translators and Commercial Interpreters have public faith under Brazilian law.

The profession is currently regulated, among other applicable provisions, by Brazilian Federal Law No. 14,195 of 26 August 2021.

2. Will a sworn translation completed in Brazil be accepted in the UK?

It may be accepted, but acceptance depends on the requirements of the UK organisation receiving the document.

The United Kingdom does not have a system of officially appointed “sworn translators” equivalent to the Brazilian system.

If a document is intended for use in the United Kingdom, you should confirm in advance what translation, certification, notarisation, apostille or other requirements are imposed by the receiving organisation.

3. Are there sworn translations in the UK?

The United Kingdom does not have an official system of sworn translators equivalent to that which exists in Brazil.

For documents intended for UK organisations, a translation may instead be certified by the translator. A certified translation will normally include a statement confirming that it is a true and accurate translation, together with the date and the translator’s name and contact details.

Requirements may vary between receiving organisations.

4. Will a certified translation completed in the UK be accepted in Brazil?

Not necessarily.

Where a foreign document is intended to produce legal or official effects in Brazil, Brazilian requirements may require it to be accompanied by a translation produced by a Public Translator and Commercial Interpreter authorised in Brazil.

The foreign document may also be subject to apostille or legalisation requirements.

Before using a UK-certified translation in Brazil, you should therefore confirm the requirements directly with the Brazilian authority or organisation receiving the document.

5. What is a Public Translator and Commercial Interpreter in Brazil?

A Public Translator and Commercial Interpreter (Tradutor e Intérprete Público) is a professional authorised under Brazilian law to produce official translations with public faith.

The Commercial Registries (Juntas Comerciais) of the Brazilian states maintain information about duly qualified Public Translators and Commercial Interpreters.

6. What translation services does Korwen provide in the UK?

Korwen provides certified translation services in the United Kingdom.

These services are not presented as Brazilian sworn translations.

Our certified translations are prepared for submission to UK and international organisations, including government departments, banks, universities and other public and private bodies.

Acceptance requirements vary between organisations. Clients should confirm any specific certification, formatting, notarisation, apostille or other requirements with the receiving organisation before ordering.