Certified translation in Panama: authorized public translators
When a document must be presented to an authority in another language, an ordinary translation is not enough: it must be a certified translation. This guide explains what an authorized public translator is in Panama, which documents are most often translated and how to combine the translation with the apostille.
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What is a certified translation?
In Panama, officially valid translations are made by an authorized public translator: a professional certified by the Ministry of Education whose signature is registered at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The translation bears their signature and seal, which is why it can be apostilled or authenticated.
Documents most often translated
- Articles of incorporation, foundation charters, Public Registry certificates and powers of attorney.
- Birth, marriage and death certificates.
- Diplomas, transcripts and academic documents.
- Judgments, contracts and other legal documents.
- Foreign documents to be presented in Panama, translated into Spanish.
Translate before or after the apostille?
It depends on the country and the body receiving the document. Some require the original to be apostilled first and then everything translated, including the apostille; others require the translation itself to be apostilled too. We confirm the requirement before we start so the process is done only once.
Foreign documents for use in Panama
If a document issued in another country is not in Spanish, Panamanian authorities usually require it to be apostilled or legalized in its country of origin and translated into Spanish by an authorized public translator in Panama. This is common, for example, with powers of attorney and identification documents used to form a company.
Steps of the process
- You send us a copy of the document and tell us the language and destination country.
- We confirm whether you need an apostille and in what order.
- We send you a written quote.
- The authorized public translator translates the full document, including seals and notes.
- If needed, we apostille the translation.
- You receive the translation in the format the receiving body accepts.
Legal basis
- Ministry of Education rules on the certification of authorized public translators.
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs signature registry for authentications and apostilles.
- Hague Convention of 1961, when the translation will be used abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Which languages do you translate?
English and Spanish most often. For other languages, ask us and we will confirm whether an authorized public translator is available.
Are the seal and apostille translated too?
Yes. An official translation covers the full content of the document, including seals, signatures and notes.
Can I send a scanned document?
For a quote, yes. For the final translation we tell you whether the original is needed or a copy is enough, depending on its use.
How long does it take?
It depends on the length of the document and whether it needs an apostille. We give you a realistic estimate in the quote.
General information only. It does not replace advice for your specific case; requirements and official fees may change.