Description
Sworn translation of residence permit
A sworn translation of a residence permit is required for many legal, administrative, educational and employment-related procedures both in Spain and abroad.
At iDISC, all translations are carried out by sworn translators-interpreters appointed by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation (MAEC), guaranteeing full official validity before public institutions, companies, embassies, consulates and international bodies.
This service is known as sworn translation, official translation or certified translation.
What is a residence permit?
A residence permit (or authorization of residence) is an official document issued by the competent authorities—in Spain, the Directorate General of Migration and the Directorate General of Police—that certifies the legal right of a foreign national to reside in Spanish territory.
It may be issued in different formats, such as the Foreigner’s Identity Card (TIE), administrative decisions granting or renewing residence, or certificates issued by Immigration Offices or Police Stations.
This document contains essential information, such as the holder’s personal details, the type of permit granted, validity dates, NIE number and residence or work conditions.
When a residence permit must be submitted outside Spain, or when a foreign residence permit must be used within Spain, a sworn translation is mandatory.
What is a sworn translation of a residence permit?
A sworn translation of the residence permit is carried out by an official sworn translator, who signs and stamps the translation to guarantee its accuracy and full correspondence with the original document. This certification is essential for the translation to be accepted as valid by governmental authorities, academic institutions, embassies and other entities, ensuring compliance with the legal requirements applicable to international recognition procedures and processes.
When is a sworn translation of a residence permit required?
A sworn translation of a residence permit is necessary in situations such as:
- Immigration procedures abroad: to apply for visas, renewals, nationality or work permits in another country.
- International educational processes: universities and educational institutions may request the translation of the residence permit to verify legal status for exchanges, scholarships or enrollment.
- Employment procedures: international companies may require official translation to verify residence status and authorization to work.
- International legal or administrative procedures: including adoptions, child custody matters, legal proceedings, property acquisitions or notarial procedures.
- Use in Spain of a residence permit issued in another country: when a foreign national must prove prior legal residence using a foreign-issued document, it must be submitted together with a sworn translation into Spanish.
Apostille and legalization
Depending on the country where the document is to be submitted, the original residence permit may require one of the following:
- A Hague Apostille, if the destination country is a party to the Hague Convention.
- Consular legalization, if the country is not a party to the Convention.
The apostille is affixed to the original document, never to the translation itself. If your residence permit or administrative resolution already bears an apostille, we can also provide a sworn translation of the apostille if required for your procedure. We can advise you on whether your document needs an apostille and how to complete this process.
Commitment to quality
At iDISC we are committed to providing high-quality sworn translations, carried out by sworn translators with extensive experience in the field. Each translation is prepared with rigor and precision, ensuring that the professional identification is presented in accordance with the strictest legal and administrative standards. We value clarity, accuracy and formality in every project, ensuring that the translated document is accepted for any legal or academic process.
