Why Certified Translation Is Crucial When Moving to Portugal
Portugal is becoming a top destination for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. But before you can settle into your new life in Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve, there’s one bureaucratic step you can’t avoid: certified translation of your documents.
Portuguese authorities require official documents in European Portuguese, translated by a certified or sworn translator. Submitting documents in any other language—or even in Brazilian Portuguese—can lead to delays, rejection, or repeated submissions.
What Is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation is a legally recognized translation of an official document. It includes:
- A signed statement by the translator confirming accuracy
- The translator’s credentials
- The date of translation and contact details
In Portugal, translations often need to be notarized or certified by a Portuguese lawyer or notary, especially for government or legal use.
Who Needs Certified Translations in Portugal?
If you’re planning to:
- Apply for residency or citizenship
- Enroll in a university
- Get married
- Open a business
- Buy property
…then you’ll need certified translations for many of your personal, legal, and academic documents.
List of Essential Documents That Require Certified Translation
Here’s a breakdown of documents commonly requested by SEF (Immigration and Border Services), universities, notaries, and other official bodies in Portugal:
1. Birth Certificate
Required for:
- Residency permits (especially family reunification)
- Citizenship applications
- Marriage registration
Make sure the document is:
- Translated into European Portuguese
- Apostilled in your home country (if applicable)
2. Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
Needed for:
- Residency via family reunification
- Spousal citizenship applications
- Buying property jointly
3. Police Clearance Certificate / Criminal Record
Required for:
- D7, D2, and Golden Visa applications
- Naturalization processes
Must be recent (issued within 3–6 months) and certified.
4. Academic Diplomas and Transcripts
If you’re enrolling in a Portuguese university or applying for job recognition:
- Translate your diploma, grade sheets, and course descriptions
- May need additional validation (e.g., ENIC-NARIC Portugal)
5. Proof of Address or Residence
Some processes require proof of your residence in your home country or in Portugal. Translate any utility bills, lease agreements, or letters from local authorities.
6. Employment Records or Work Contracts
Needed for:
- D2 or D3 visa applications
- Job verification
A certified translation helps prove your professional background and income sources.
7. Medical Records and Insurance Policies
For residency or retirement visas:
- Translate key health documents, including chronic condition treatments
- Health insurance policies must be translated to prove coverage meets Portuguese standards
8. Divorce Decrees or Death Certificates (if applicable)
Necessary for:
- Marriage applications
- Inheritance matters
- Family reunification with children
Translation Requirements in Portugal
Portuguese authorities generally require:
- European Portuguese (not Brazilian Portuguese)
- Certified by a sworn translator, notary, or lawyer
- Sometimes notarized translations are requested
- Apostille from your home country if the original document is from outside Portugal
⚠️ Tip: Some local entities accept translations from abroad only if they’re accompanied by an apostille and a notarized translation.
Where to Get Certified Translations
You have several options:
🔸 Sworn Translator in Portugal
- Best for official government use
- Recognized by courts and SEF
- May be listed with Portuguese notaries or law offices
🔸 Translation Agencies (In-Person or Online)
- Many offer certified translation for Portugal
- Ensure they translate into European Portuguese
- Confirm they offer notarization services if needed
🔸 Embassy or Consulate Services
- Some embassies provide translation assistance or notarize translated documents
- Useful when you’re still abroad
Costs and Turnaround Time
Certified translations typically cost:
- €25–€50 per page
- Higher for notarized or sworn translations
Turnaround time:
- 2–5 business days for standard documents
- May take longer if notarization is required
Final Checklist Before Submission
✅ Translation in European Portuguese
✅ Translator’s signed declaration of accuracy
✅ Apostille stamp if needed
✅ Notarization if required by the receiving authority
✅ Double-check document expiration dates
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Avoid Delays
Getting your documents professionally translated and certified is one of the most important steps in a smooth transition to Portugal. Whether you’re applying for a visa, enrolling in school, or starting a new life, certified translations are not just a formality—they’re a legal necessity.
Don’t risk rejection by submitting incorrect or incomplete translations. Work with trusted professionals who know the Portuguese system inside out.
