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Sworn translation of Farsi documents in the Netherlands
To use an Iranian birth certificate, diploma, or marriage certificate in the Netherlands, you almost always need a sworn translation. Here's what that means and how to get one.
What is a sworn translator?
A sworn (beëdigd) translator is officially authorised and listed in the Register of Sworn Interpreters and Translators (Rbtv) under the Wbtv law. Their translation carries a stamp and statement that make it legally valid for Dutch authorities. A regular translation does not have this status.
When you need one
Dutch bodies — the IND, your gemeente (municipality), universities, and courts — typically require sworn translations of:
- Birth, marriage, and divorce certificates
- Diplomas and academic transcripts
- Court and identity documents
Apostille and legalisation
A translation alone is often not enough: the original Iranian document usually needs to be legalised (Iran is not part of the Apostille Convention, so documents are legalised via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Dutch embassy). Check the exact requirement with the authority that asked for the document before you pay for translation.
Cost and turnaround
Prices are usually per document or per word, and a sworn translation of a standard certificate is typically ready within a few working days. Ask for a quote up front, and confirm whether you need translation into Dutch or English.
Find a sworn Farsi translator
Browse Persian-speaking translators and interpreters by city in our translators directory.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a sworn translation for my Iranian documents in the Netherlands?
- Almost always, yes. Dutch authorities — the IND, your municipality, universities, and courts — require a sworn (beëdigde) translation of Persian documents such as birth, marriage, and diploma certificates.
- What is the difference between a sworn and a regular translation?
- A sworn translator is registered in the Rbtv register under the Wbtv law; their translation carries a legally valid stamp and statement. A regular translation does not have this official status.
- Do I also need to legalise my Iranian document?
- Usually yes. Iran is not part of the Apostille Convention, so the original is legalised via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Dutch embassy. Confirm the exact requirement with the authority before paying for translation.
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