Guide · Certified translations
Which sworn translations are accepted in Belgium?
Whether translation is needed depends on the actual Belgian procedure. First check the existing language and the receiving authority’s instructions.
Reviewed on 27 October 2026
The short answer
A German document does not need translation for every Belgian procedure. The Belgian missions in Germany expressly exempt German documents in their visa FAQ. For other source languages they describe sworn translations and additional formalities. Those visa rules do not establish the requirements of every municipality, university or court.
Ask which language the actual procedure uses
Record the recipient, document type and purpose. “For Belgium” is insufficient to choose the target language and certification; provide the actual authority and its written instructions.
Check the existing version before ordering another translation. Keep any confirmed language exemption with the document checklist and check again when using a different recipient.
Keep a documented exemption within its scope
The cited FAQ accepts German and other languages in its described visa procedure. For records outside those languages it specifies a sworn translation and separate authentication steps.
Do not transfer these statements to other applications without checking. If instructions differ, confirm who may issue the translation and which additional certification is actually needed.
Read more: Belgian missions in Germany: visa documents and translations
Discuss the issuing route before ordering
Send current recipient instructions with complete legible records, source language and deadline. Identify existing Apostilles or other confirmations so the translation scope is clear.
A general price indication does not promise a particular Belgian registration or authentication. Enquire expressly about the required route and obtain confirmation of availability, scope and output format.
Your next steps
Identify the actual Belgian recipient and purpose.
Check whether the existing language version is accepted.
Ask about translator status and additional certification.
Enquire using confirmed requirements and source records.
More questions
Must every German certificate be translated?
No. Check the procedure-specific exemption and confirm that it applies.
Does the visa FAQ govern every registry office?
No. Another recipient may have different language and format requirements.
Is a special Belgian issuing route automatically included?
No. The required status and its availability must be agreed before ordering.
Sources and further reading
The receiving organisation’s current instructions matter for your assignment. Send them to us with your documents.
Clarify requirements before ordering
State the procedure, language and Belgian format requirement. Availability of a particular issuing route must be checked first.
Confirm the required issuing route and availability first.