Apostilles and Sworn Translations for the Spanish Digital Nomad Visa
A common question in our inbox at Hisparos Translations LinkedIn page is which documents need an apostille and which require a sworn translation for the Spain Digital Nomad Visa. This can be confusing due to changing requirements. This article clarifies the process and provides clear guidance on obtaining apostilles and certified sworn translations. Understanding these requirements ensures your paperwork is in order, avoiding delays or complications.
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is a certification that verifies the authenticity of a document for use in another country. Originating from the Hague Convention of 1961, the apostille is an internationally recognized form of notarization that simplifies the legalization process. It confirms that the signature, seal, and position of a public official on a document are genuine.
To obtain an apostille, you typically need to bring the document to the relevant government authority in your home country, such as the Secretary of State’s office in the US. The document is authenticated and affixed with an apostille certificate, making it valid for international use.
What Is a Spanish Sworn Translation?
A Spanish sworn translation, or “traducción jurada,” is an officially certified translation of a document completed by a translator authorized by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Sworn translators attest to the accuracy of their translations by affixing their stamp and signature to the document. These translations are legally valid for official use in Spain.
Spain Digital Nomad Visa Document List
Documents Requiring an Apostille
- Police Record Certificate: Required for the country where you’ve been a resident for the past two years.
- Certificate of Incorporation/Good Standing: Needed from your client or employer.
- Marriage Certificate/Birth Certificates: Required if you’re bringing your spouse or minor children.
- University Degree: Newly required as of 2024.
- Tax/Social Security Documents Proving Work Experience: Also newly required as of 2024.
Note: If any of the above documents are issued within the European Union, they typically don’t require an apostille if they are issued as an EU “Multilingual Standard Form.” These documents are recognized across member states and simplify cross-border administrative procedures, eliminating the need for an apostille. However, for non-EU citizens, even police record certificates from the EU require an apostille because the directive eliminating apostilles within the EU contains this exception.
Documents Requiring Sworn Translations
- Police Record Certificate: For the country where you’ve been living for the past two years.
- Certificate of Incorporation/Good Standing.
- Marriage Certificate/Birth Certificates: Only if you’re bringing your spouse or minor children.
- The Apostilles for Any of the Above Documents: If they are not in Spanish.
- University/College Degree: If applicable.
- Client/Employment Contract.
- Client/Employer Letter.
- Letters Proving 3 Years of Work Experience.
- Tax/Social Security Documents Proving Work Experience: New for 2024.
Documents Not Requiring Sworn Translations
- Passport: A copy of every page of your passport.
- Application Form (Mi_T).
- CV: Must be written in Spanish.
Important: Occasionally, the UGE (Unidad de Grandes Empresas) may request a sworn translation for other documents but usually provides 10 working days to complete it.
If you are a self-applicant and want to apply for a Visa to Spain yourself, we will be happy to assist you with the required sworn translations.
Order your sworn translations online or email us your documents.