What is a sworn translation

If the PIO or another authority referred you to a sworn translator, you are in the right place. The Press and Information Office no longer issues translations, but it publishes the Register of Sworn Translators, where you can verify our entry under No. 094. You will see the terms sworn, certified or official translation. They mean the same thing.

The definition

A sworn translation is the valid and accurate translation of a written text or document, bearing the official personal stamp of a registered sworn translator. The stamp and the statement of accuracy are what give the translation its legal force.

Put simply, a correct translation is not enough on its own. What is needed is a translation by a person whom the law recognises as competent to certify it.

The legal framework

The institution of the sworn translator was introduced in Cyprus in 2019 by Law 45(I)/2019. Before that, official translations were handled by the translation branch of the Press and Information Office. Since 1 July 2019, responsibility rests exclusively with sworn translators, who are listed in an official register.

The key point: under Law 45(I)/2019, government services, courts and independent authorities of the Republic use the services of sworn translators exclusively for certified translations. A sworn translation is not an option, it is a requirement of the law.

When you need one

You need a sworn translation when a document is to be submitted to a public service, a court, a university or an authority, inside or outside Cyprus. Common cases:

• Birth, marriage, divorce and death certificates
• Criminal record certificates
• Degrees and qualifications for recognition
• Contracts, powers of attorney and court documents
• Corporate and tax documents

How it differs from a standard translation

A standard translation conveys the meaning but has no legal force. A sworn translation is treated as a legal document. It bears a stamp, it is accompanied by a statement of accuracy, and the translator carries full responsibility for its accuracy before the law.

The stamp and the register number

Every sworn translator holds an official personal stamp and a unique register number. These are public details that allow the receiving body to verify authenticity. Eleni Diou is a registered sworn translator with Register No. 094.