Check whether an official version is available in the target language
Türkiye’s Ministry of Justice explains that official criminal record certificates are available in foreign languages for certain applicants and channels. A receiving authority may accept such a version without a separate translation. Check the language, record scope and certification requirements before arranging additional work.
Distinguish the document’s origin and destination
Submitting a Turkish record abroad and using a foreign criminal record in Türkiye are different cases. Residence procedures may also request different records depending on the application. Tell us where the certificate was issued, where it will be submitted and which current document list applies.
The complete record and explanations are translated
The translation covers the identity details, stated purpose, criminal record and archive entries, explanations, dates, document numbers and continuation pages. We do not soften the wording, omit relevant explanations or add a legal interpretation. Any unreadable entry must be clarified.
Confirm notarisation and attestation separately
Sworn translation, notarisation and any authentication of the original document are separate steps. For a foreign certificate submitted in Türkiye, follow the official checklist for your procedure. The order of apostille and other formalities must be checked for each document and application.
Prepare a complete and legible file
Tell us whether you have a PDF with a barcode, a scan or an official paper copy. The copy used for translation and the original document an authority may require are different matters. We agree the file and delivery requirements before starting; you can discuss confidentiality at the first contact.
What affects the quote?
The language pair, page count, density of entries, additional annotations and delivery or certification requirements affect the quote. Translation and agreed additional costs are specified separately. You do not need to include the details of your record in your first enquiry; describing the document and intended use is enough to begin.
Details we check
- Identity information and issue date
- Complete criminal record and archive entries and explanations
- Document numbers, annotations and continuation pages
- The same information in the source and translation
- The authority’s requirements for language, certification and copies
Information to prepare
- Check whether the official foreign-language version is accepted.
- Prepare all pages in a legible format.
- State the issuing country and destination country.
- Share the receiving authority’s record and translation requirements.
- Specify the target language, deadline and delivery format.
Frequently asked questions
01Is an official version in the target language enough?+
It may be enough if the receiving authority accepts that version. Check whether it additionally requires a translator’s statement, sworn translation, notarisation or another certification.
02Are a criminal record and an archive record the same?+
The document may contain separate explanations for these categories. Check which scope the authority requests. We translate the information actually present in the source without merging or reinterpreting it.
03Does every criminal record translation need an apostille?+
No. Requirements depend on the document, issuing country, destination and application. Follow the current official checklist for your particular procedure.
04Do you advise on the legal effect of a record?+
This service concerns translation. Questions about legal consequences, removal of a record or the outcome of an application should be addressed to the competent authority or a qualified legal professional.
Guides and standards
Sworn translation, notarisation and apostilles: what do you need?Quality in sworn translation and official documentsISO 17100 and the translation quality processOfficial sources you can consult
Türkiye Ministry of Justice — Foreign-language criminal record resultsTürkiye Presidency of Migration Management — Document explanations (Turkish)Content updated: