Sworn translation of a death certificate
A death certificate may be used to prove widowhood, administer an estate, close records or complete other formalities. The required document may range from an extract to a full certification containing additional details.
What must be visible in the file
- Name of the deceased and date of death
- Place, registry reference and issuing authority
- Legible seals, signatures and annotations
- International authentication or multilingual form when attached
Validity and format
The registered event does not expire, although the authority may request a recently issued or authentic copy. The acceptable age of the copy must be checked for the relevant procedure.
Typical use
It may be used for inheritance, proof of widowhood, civil-status and administrative procedures.
Before translation
How to request an assessment
State whether the certificate will be used for marriage, inheritance or another matter. This helps identify relevant attachments and terminology.
Frequently asked questions
Can a very old certificate be translated?
Yes, provided it is legible. Handwriting and damaged seals are reviewed before the assignment is confirmed.
Can the same translation be used for inheritance and marriage?
The translation reproduces the same original, but each authority may require a different certificate format or copy.
Must the cause of death also be translated?
All legible content in the certificate supplied is translated. If that information appears in the original, it will be included.