What is a certified (sworn) translation in Poland?
Polish offices and courts generally require translations made by a certified (sworn) translator (tłumacz przysięgły) entered on the Ministry of Justice list. The translator signs and stamps the translation and records it in an official register (repertorium). In Polish, the correct term is tłumaczenie poświadczone (certified translation), although people often say tłumaczenie przysięgłe.
Can I send just a scan?
Yes. In that case, the certified translation will state that it was made from a scan or copy. Some institutions require a translation made from the original, so it is worth checking before you order.
How long does it take?
Official documents, such as a birth certificate or a diploma, take 2 working days. For longer and more complex texts, I agree the deadline individually.
Does a certified translation expire?
The translation itself has no expiry date. However, an institution may require an up-to-date source document, such as a recently issued copy of a certificate.
Do I need an apostille?
An apostille or legalisation is issued by the authorities of the country where the document was issued, not by the translator. If one is required, it is usually obtained first and then translated together with the document. If your Polish translation is to be used abroad, some countries also require an apostille on the certified translation itself. Check with the institution what it requires. For more information, see the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs page on certification of documents.
Do you translate in both directions?
Yes: from Polish into English and from English into Polish.
Can you certify a translation I already have?
I can review and certify a translation made by someone else. The price depends on its quality.
Do you translate criminal record certificates?
Yes, it is one of the most frequently translated documents. Polish employers and offices often ask for a criminal record certificate from your home country, which then needs a certified translation into Polish. I also translate Polish certificates from the National Criminal Register (Krajowy Rejestr Karny) into English. For a Polish certificate, send the file downloaded online or a scan of the paper version. They usually take 2 working days.
Do you translate school certificates for Polish university admission?
Yes. I translate school-leaving certificates, transcripts and diplomas into Polish for admission to Polish universities. Before ordering, check the university’s requirements – some also ask for an apostille or legalisation of the certificate.
Do you issue invoices?
Yes. Companies receive a VAT invoice or a receipt with their Polish tax number (NIP). Private clients receive a receipt or, on request, an invoice. You can pay by bank transfer, by card (card terminal or secure payment link) or in cash.
Are my documents safe?
As a certified (sworn) translator, I am bound by professional secrecy under Polish law. I process personal data in line with the GDPR. See the privacy policy for details.
