How Sworn Translations (Asseverazione) Work in Italy: The Complete Expat Guide
If you are relocating to Italy, applying for Italian citizenship, registering a foreign marriage, or enrolling in an Italian university, you will quickly encounter a requirement for a traduzione giurata (sworn translation). Unlike in common-law countries (such as the US or UK) where a simple certified translation with a translator’s signature is standard, the Italian legal system requires a formal, court-administered procedure known as asseverazione.
Sworn Translation vs. Certified Translation in Italy
| Feature | Sworn Translation (Asseverata) | Certified Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Where it is performed | In person before the Clerk of the Court or Notary | Signed directly by the professional translator |
| Official Oath | Formal minutes of oath signed with court seal | Accompanied by a Certificate of Accuracy (CTA) |
| Revenue Stamps | Mandatory state duty stamps (€16 per 4 pages) | No court stamps required |
| Standard Use | Italian public bodies, Prefettura, Questura, Courts | Anglo-Saxon universities, UK/US visa processing |
Documents Commonly Requiring Sworn Translation
- Vital Statistics Certificates: Birth, marriage, divorce, and death certificates for citizenship or municipal registration.
- Police Clearances: FBI Identity History Summaries, ACRO/DBS police checks for visas and citizenship.
- Academic Records: Diplomas, university degrees, and Transcripts of Records for CIMEA statements or enrollment.
- Driver’s Licenses: Foreign driving permits for conversion at the Italian Motorizzazione Civile.
- Legal & Corporate Documents: Powers of Attorney (procura), company bylaws, and commercial contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I arrange a sworn translation remotely from abroad?
Yes. You can send a high-resolution PDF scan of your document via email or WhatsApp. I perform the professional translation, swear the oath in Court in Rome, and dispatch the original physical legal bundle directly to your address anywhere in Italy or internationally via tracked courier (DHL/UPS).
Does my document need a Hague Apostille first?
If your document originates from a country member of the Hague Apostille Convention (such as the US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.), the Apostille must generally be affixed in the issuing country before proceeding with sworn translation in Italy.
How much does a sworn translation cost in Italy?
Costs consist of the professional translator fee (typically €30 to €50 per standard document/page) plus statutory Italian revenue stamps (€16.00 per 4 pages of translation). Exact quotes are provided upfront with zero hidden charges.
📄 Need Your Documents Legally Sworn in Italy?
Send a scan of your documents to info@seansilla.com or WhatsApp. Receive a clear, all-inclusive quote and turnaround estimate within 2 hours.