Notarisation and Apostille 5 August 2026
When a Multilingual Civil Registry Extract Does Not Require Translation
Multilingual documents issued in an international format leave no need for a separate translation in some situations; even so, this always has to be assessed together with confirmation that the document will be accepted.
A separate translation is not always needed for civil registry documents that are to be used in proceedings abroad. The reason is that some documents can be issued in an international, multilingual format.
Multilingual formula documents are issued in more than one language
Some civil registry documents can be issued in a multilingual (formula) format under international agreements. This format rests on the issuing authority showing the standard fields in more than one language. Documents of this kind can be accepted in the countries concerned without being separately translated, because the content is already provided in more than one language.
Acceptance always depends on confirmation from the receiving institution
Careful wording is needed here, though: whether a multilingual document requires translation varies according to the country and the institution to which it will be submitted. Some authorities accept the format directly, while others may still ask for a translation or further approval. Rather than making a firm claim of exemption, then, the soundest course is to confirm the current guidance of the institution concerned.
In practice the safest route is to state in advance which country and which procedure the document is for, and to confirm whether a translation is needed. Avoiding an unnecessary translation cost, and avoiding a stalled application because the document was brought without one, both depend on that confirmation. At our office we look at the format of your document and assess with you whether a translation is required.