Anyone who needs a language professional for a court, the police, a registry office or the immigration office quickly comes across terms such as “sworn interpreter”, “authorised translator” or “certified translator”. We explain what they mean in Germany – and what to look for when choosing.
Sworn interpreter: for the spoken word
A publicly sworn interpreter (“allgemein beeidigter Dolmetscher”) has taken a general oath before a court or competent authority to interpret faithfully and conscientiously. For court interpreters, this has been regulated uniformly across Germany by the Court Interpreters Act since 2023. Sworn interpreters are used at court hearings, police interrogations, notary and registry office appointments. How the different types of interpreting work is explained in our article on interpreting.
Authorised translator: for the written word
An authorised (in some federal states “sworn” or “publicly appointed”) translator is empowered by the court to confirm the accuracy and completeness of translations. Only such translators may produce certified translations that are recognised by authorities and courts. The authorisation is governed by the law of the respective federal state.
The differences at a glance
Sworn interpreter
Oral language transfer in real time – e.g. in court, at the police, the notary or the doctor.
Authorised translator
Written translation of documents with certification statement, stamp and signature – e.g. certificates, judgments, diplomas.
Court interpreter
Colloquial term for a publicly sworn interpreter working for courts and judicial authorities.
When do you need a sworn interpreter?
- Court hearings and interrogations
- Weddings at the registry office
- Notary appointments, e.g. property purchase or will
- Appointments at the immigration office
- Instructions and hearings at the police and authorities
Finding qualified language professionals
Sworn interpreters and authorised translators are listed in the German judiciary’s nationwide database of interpreters and translators. It is easier with an experienced agency: Sönmez Interpreting and Translation Agency has worked for courts, public prosecutors, police and authorities in North Rhine-Westphalia since 1990 – with publicly sworn interpreters and authorised translators for more than 100 languages. A selection of our clients can be found under our clients.
Frequently asked questions
Is a “sworn translator” the same as an “authorised translator”?
In everyday language the terms are often used interchangeably. Depending on the German federal state, the empowered translators are called authorised, sworn or publicly appointed – what is always meant is the power to officially certify translations.
May any interpreter interpret in court?
Courts generally use publicly sworn interpreters. If no sworn interpreter is available, an interpreter can be sworn in for the specific proceedings in individual cases.
Can you provide sworn interpreters at short notice?
Yes, thanks to our large network we can often provide sworn interpreters for Düsseldorf and all of North Rhine-Westphalia at short notice.
Need a translation or an interpreter?
Send us your documents – you will quickly receive a free, non-binding quote.
