Official translation explained
What makes a translation official in Colombia?
An official translation is certified by a translator who demonstrates the qualifications required by the applicable Colombian framework. The recipient decides whether that form of translation meets its requirements.
Certification and translator qualifications.
An official translation is more than a translation described as accurate. The translator must be able to demonstrate the relevant official qualification under the Colombian framework, and the deliverable must include the applicable certification.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs explains the translator qualification framework. Its published guidance states that it does not maintain or publish a registry of official translators; a claim of being listed in a Ministry registry should therefore not replace a proper qualification check.
The receiving institution sets the requirements.
An embassy, university, authority or company may require an official translation, an apostille, original paper copies or the translation of attachments. Requirements are not universal across countries and procedures.
- Confirm the source and target languages.
- Ask whether stamps, reverse sides and apostilles must be translated.
- Check the delivery format and any validity period.
What to send for a quote.
Provide a complete readable copy, the destination country and institution, the date needed and any written instructions. These details help define the assignment without assumptions about your procedure.
Official sources.
This guide provides general information and does not replace the receiving institution’s current instructions or professional advice for your circumstances.
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