Every document you submit to a Spanish consulate must be in Spanish — and not just any translation will do. Spanish consulates require sworn translations (traducción jurada) performed by a translator officially registered with Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
What Is a Sworn Translation?
A sworn translation is a legally certified translation produced by a translator authorized by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAEC). The translator stamps and signs each page, certifying its accuracy. This is different from a “certified” translation in the US or UK — Spain has its own specific requirements.
Which Documents Need Sworn Translation?
For the Non-Lucrative Visa, you will typically need sworn translations of:
- Criminal background check / police clearance
- Medical certificate
- Bank statements and financial proof letters
- Marriage certificate (if applying with a spouse)
- Birth certificates (if applying with children)
- Pension or income verification letters
Important: Apostille First, Then Translate
The correct order is critical: first get the apostille on the original document, then have it translated. The sworn translation must include the apostille text as well. If you translate first and apostille second, the consulate may reject your documents.
How Much Do Sworn Translations Cost?
Prices typically range from 30 to 80 EUR per page depending on the document complexity and language pair. A full NLV application with 5-8 documents usually costs between 300-600 EUR for translations.
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Get sworn translations via Translayte →Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, tax, or immigration advice. Immigration rules, consulate requirements, and financial thresholds can change without notice. Always verify current requirements with your specific Spanish consulate and consult a qualified immigration lawyer or tax advisor before making decisions based on this content. We make every effort to keep this information accurate and up to date, but we cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy at any given time.