Translations & Apostille in Italy: What It Is and How to Get It
The Translations & Apostille is an essential part of settling in Italy as a foreigner. Whether you are a student, worker, or relocating with family, understanding this step will save you time and frustration. It is a moderately involved process that requires 3 documents. It typically costs €50-200 per document (translation) + apostille fees (varies by country). You should plan for this 2-4 weeks before consulate appointment.
What is Translations & Apostille?
All non-Italian documents (work contracts, income proof, degree, etc.) must be translated by a sworn (giurato) translator and have an apostille affixed by the competent authority in the issuing country. This step alone takes 2-4 weeks.
To complete this step, you will need to gather 3 documents and follow a specific procedure. The process involves several steps but is manageable with proper preparation. The associated cost is €50-200 per document (translation) + apostille fees (varies by country).
Based on the experience of thousands of foreigners who have gone through this process, there are several practical tips that can make your experience smoother. Being well-prepared before your appointment and having all documents in order are consistently the most important factors for success.
Who needs it?
This step is part of the "Digital Nomad" journey. Depending on your nationality (EU vs. non-EU), your specific visa type, and your city of residence, the exact requirements and timeline may vary.
Applicable visa and permit types
- Digital Nomad
What you'll need
You will need 3 documents to complete this step. Below is an overview of each one.
Original documents requiring translation
All the documents you collected in Step 2 that are not in Italian — work contracts, income proof, degree, etc. Each needs a certified translation.
Sworn translator services
A certified translator who has sworn an oath before an Italian court, making their translations legally valid in Italy. Only sworn translations are accepted.
Cost: €50-200 per document
Apostille from issuing country authority
An official stamp certifying your documents are genuine, recognized internationally under the Hague Convention. Without it, your translated documents have no legal weight in Italy.
Cost: €10-50 per document (varies)
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Sign up freeThe process
Here is a high-level overview of the steps involved in completing this process.
- 1
Gather all required documents (listed below).
- 2
Visit the relevant office. Common offices involved: Already collected in Step 2, Certified translators (find via Italian consulate list or national translator registries).
- 3
Submit your application and any required fees.
- 4
Wait for processing and collect your document or confirmation.
- 5
Important: remember the deadline — 2-4 weeks before consulate appointment.
Common mistakes to avoid
Many foreigners run into the same issues when completing this step. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Using a regular translator instead of a sworn (giurato) translator — non-sworn translations are rejected
- Forgetting apostille on documents — a translated document without apostille is invalid
- Not checking whether your country is part of the Hague Convention — non-Hague countries need legalization instead of apostille
- Translating documents yourself even if bilingual — only sworn professional translators are accepted
Frequently asked questions
What is a sworn (giurato) translator?
A sworn translator is a certified professional who provides translations that have legal validity. They swear an oath before a court that the translation is accurate. Only sworn translations are accepted by Italian authorities.
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a certification that authenticates a document for use in countries that are parties to the Hague Convention. It's issued by a competent authority in the country where the document was created (usually the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a court).
My country is not in the Hague Convention. What do I do?
If your country is not a party to the Hague Apostille Convention, you need consular legalization instead. This means getting the document authenticated by your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, then by the Italian embassy/consulate in your country.
Official sources
All information on this page has been verified against official Italian government sources. Always double-check with the relevant office for the most current requirements.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws change frequently. Always verify with official sources.