Explore country-specific rules for recognising foreign documents for official use.
This map shows when certified or sworn translations, apostilles, or legalisation are required for official use.
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Requirement: Certified
| Apostille required | Required for foreign public documents where applicable |
|---|---|
| Translation type required | Certified translation |
| Who can translate | Professional translator providing written certification |
| Official translator registry | No government registry (NZSTI is a professional association) |
| Accepted languages | English |
| Legalisation authority | Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) – Apostille |
| Official source | Immigration New Zealand – Providing English translations of supporting documents |
Important: Immigration requirements are set at national level. Other institutions (courts, universities, councils) may have specific additional requirements.
New Zealand does not operate a sworn or licensed translator system.
Translations must be completed by a professional translator who provides a signed certification confirming that the translation is accurate and complete.
For visa applications, translations must not be completed by:
A certified translation should include:
Foreign official documents may require an apostille or authentication issued by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) or by the competent authority in the country of origin.
Translation requirements for immigration matters are determined by Immigration New Zealand. Apostilles are issued under the Hague Apostille Convention by the Department of Internal Affairs.
