Sworn vs Certified Translation in Turkey

English-speaking clients often ask for a “certified translation” of a Turkish document. In Turkey that phrase does not name one product. Three different acts get mixed together: the translation itself, the notary’s authentication of the translator, and the later apostille or embassy stamp.

Yeminli tercüme (sworn translation)

A yeminli tercüman is a translator sworn before a Turkish court. The translation carries the translator’s stamp and signature. For documents that will be apostilled or legalized, this is the usual starting point — not a marketing label, a court appointment.

This is the service described on certified translation in Ankara. It is not the same as a freelance “I certify this is accurate” letter used in some US filings.

Noter tasdiki (notarization of the translator)

The notary does not re-translate the document and does not vouch for the content. The notary authenticates the translator’s signature. That notarial act is what later authorities (kaymakamlık/valilik, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, embassy) can apostille or legalize.

Skipping the notary and sending a stamped translation straight to an embassy is a common rejection.

Apostille or embassy legalization

After notarization, the file either receives a Turkish apostille or continues through Ministry of Foreign Affairs approval and a destination embassy. That choice is explained in apostille vs legalization. Neither stamp converts a bad translation into an accepted one.

Where foreign labels mislead

• UK “certified translation” for Home Office or a solicitor may mean a UK-based translator’s certification, not a Turkish yeminli product. Confirm the receiving solicitor’s rule before translating in Ankara — the same issue we flag on the UK apostille guide.
• France traducteur assermenté can mean a translator on a French cour d’appel list. A Turkish sworn translation plus apostille is not automatically that person. See the France apostille guide.
• Australia NAATI is a separate accreditation. See the Australia apostille guide.

Practical order

1. Confirm language and whether the receiving office will accept a Turkish sworn translation.
2. Translate.
3. Notarize the translator’s signature.
4. Apostille or legalize the correct sheet.

Power of attorney and diploma files follow this order, then add destination-specific steps.