Description
Sworn translation of a DNI / NIE
A sworn translation of a DNI or NIE may be required for legal, administrative, educational or immigration procedures both in Spain and abroad. At iDISC, this service is carried out exclusively by sworn translators-interpreters appointed by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation (MAEC), guaranteeing that the translation has full official validity before public administrations, companies, universities, embassies and international organizations.
Although a DNI or NIE is an identification document, when it must be submitted to an authority in a country whose language is different from Spanish, a sworn translation is the only way to ensure its formal acceptance.
What is the DNI and what is the NIE?
DNI – National Identity Document
It is the official document that certifies the identity and nationality of Spanish citizens. This document includes full name, date of birth, ID number, nationality, date of issue and validity, and a photograph. The DNI (National Identity Document) is issued by the Directorate General of the Police, specifically by the DNI Issuing Offices located throughout Spain. Only Spanish citizens can obtain a DNI.
NIE – Foreign Identity Number
This is the official identifier assigned to foreign nationals residing or carrying out procedures and formalities in Spain. It can be stated in different documents, such as residence cards (TIE) or in certificates issued by the police or immigration authorities. The NIE (Foreign Identity Number) is assigned by the Directorate General of the Police, at the immigration authority offices or authorized police stations. This number is issued to foreign citizens residing in Spain, persons carrying out procedures and formalities with the Spanish administration and applicants for visas or permits prior to their arrival. The NIE may appear on different official documents, such as the TIE (Foreign Identity Card) or on certificates issued by the immigration authorities.
Both the DNI and the NIE are considered essential personal documents and, when used outside Spain or in international proceedings, they may require a sworn translation.
When do you need a sworn translation of your DNI or NIE?
Sworn translations are usually mandatory in situations such as:
- Immigration procedures and visas abroad: the authorities of other countries may require an official translation of your identity document in order to process visas, residence permits, work permits or family reunification.
- Studies abroad: universities or academic institutions may request it to complete files or administrative verifications.
- International employment processes: foreign companies may require an official translation of the DNI or NIE as part of the hiring process or for proof of identity.
- Legal proceedings: court cases, inheritance matters, adoptions or notarial procedures outside Spain may require a certified translation of the document.
- Presentation in Spain of equivalent foreign documents: if you need to accredit your identity in Spain by means of a foreign document, a sworn translation into Spanish of that document will be required.
Apostille and legalization
In most cases, the DNI and NIE are not apostilled, since they are not intended as legalized documents.
However, some foreign authorities may request an apostille or legalization for certificates issued by the police or immigration authorities (for example, a certificate containing the NIE). In such cases, the apostille is affixed to the official document issued by the administration, not to the physical card. If your situation requires an apostille or legalization, we can advise you on how to proceed.
Commitment to quality
At iDISC, we are committed to providing high-quality sworn translations carried out by sworn translators with extensive experience. Each translation is produced with accuracy and formality, complying with all the necessary requirements to ensure that your documents are accepted by governmental authorities and other institutions. Our goal is to guarantee that each translation accurately reflects the information contained in your voting credential, giving you confidence and security in every procedure you undertake.
