A sworn translator is registered on the Minister of Justice's official list and authorized to produce translations with the legal force of an official document. A regular translator lacks such authorization — their translations are informational only.
When is a sworn translator required vs. a regular one?
Sworn required: civil registry, courts, voivodeship offices, company registration (KRS), diploma nostrification, foreign vehicle registration. Regular sufficient: internal company translations, marketing content, business correspondence, websites.
What distinguishes the sworn translator's stamp?
The round stamp contains: full name, language, and MS list number. Each translation has a repertoire number — a unique registration number. Regular translators have no official stamp.
Is regular translation cheaper?
Yes — regular translation is typically 30–50% cheaper than certified. But caution: government offices won't accept regular translations, so the savings are illusory if the document requires certification.
How to verify a translator is sworn?
The official sworn translator list is available on the Ministry of Justice website: arch-bip.ms.gov.pl. Anyone can verify a translator's credentials before ordering.