What is the Official Document Recognition Map?

An interactive map showing each country's official requirements for recognising foreign documents, including when certified translations, apostilles, or legalisation are needed.

What is an apostille?

An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document for use in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

When do I need a certified translation?

A certified translation is typically required when submitting foreign language documents to government agencies, courts, or official institutions. Requirements vary by country - use the map to check specific country requirements.

What's the difference between legalisation and an apostille?

Apostille is used between countries that are part of the Hague Convention (simplified process), while legalisation is the traditional process used between countries not part of the convention, often requiring multiple steps through foreign ministries and embassies.

Translation Requirements for Finland

Finland 🇫🇮

Requirement: Sworn

Requirements summary

Apostille required	Required if the document or translation will be used abroad
Translation type required	Authorised (sworn/licensed) translation
Who can translate	Authorised translator registered with the Finnish National Agency for Education
Official translator registry	Finnish National Agency for Education – Register of Authorised Translators
Accepted languages	Finnish or Swedish (official languages)
Legalisation authority	Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland
Official source	Finnish National Agency for Education – Authorised Translators

Important: If a translated document is to be used abroad, the authorised translator’s signature may need to be notarised before an apostille is issued by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

Find an authorised translator in Finland

Who can translate

Official translations in Finland must be carried out by an authorised translator (auktorisoitu kääntäjä) who is registered with the Finnish National Agency for Education.

Authorised translators must pass a state examination and meet statutory qualification requirements.

What makes a translation official

An authorised translation must include:

The authorised translator’s stamp and signature
A declaration confirming the translation is accurate and complete
The translator’s authorisation number

Finnish authorities typically require translations of official documents to be completed by an authorised translator.

Documents from abroad

Foreign documents submitted to Finnish authorities must generally be translated into Finnish or Swedish.

If the translated document is intended for use abroad, an apostille may be required. Apostilles are issued by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.

Legal basis

Authorised translators in Finland are regulated under national legislation and supervised by the Finnish National Agency for Education. Legalisation and apostille procedures are handled by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs in accordance with the Hague Apostille Convention.

Official Document Recognition Map - Translation, Apostille & Legalisation Rules by Country

Legalisation and translation requirements in Finland