The short answer is that it will depend on the document and the use. But in most cases you do need to have your U.S. documents translated into Italian for official use in Italy — especially when submitting them to public offices (e.g. Comune, Prefettura, Agenzia delle Entrate, notary, or court). But the type of translation and additional requirements depend on the document and the context.
When You Usually Need a Translation in Italy
Common U.S. Documents That Often Require Translation:
- Birth, marriage, or death certificates
- Divorce decrees
- Criminal background checks (e.g. FBI Identity History Summary)
- University degrees and transcripts
- Power of attorney (Procura)
- Corporate documents (for company formation or contracts)
What Kind of Translation Is Required?
There are three main types:
1. Simple Translation
For informal or internal use only (not accepted by most government offices).
2. Sworn Translation (Traduzione giurata)
This is a certified translation done by a translator who swears before an Italian court (or a notary) that the translation is accurate. Required for most official purposes in Italy.
3. Legalized/Apostilled & Translated Documents
If the original document comes from the U.S., you generally need:
- An Apostille (under the Hague Convention) from the U.S. Secretary of State
- A sworn translation into Italian of both the document and the apostille
Can I Translate the Document Myself?
It depends, usually no. Translations must generally be performed by an authorized translator in Italy, or in some cases by a professional in the U.S. followed by a declaration of accuracy and possible authentication by an Italian consulate. Some consulates and offices will accept informal translations, in particular consulates as their staff are usually bilingual.
Helpful Hints
- If you’re an Italian citizen or have proficiency in Italian often times documents can be produced directly in Italian, notarized and apostilled directly in the United States. There is no requirement that documents signed in the US be in English. Often times substantial time and money can be saved by conducting as many steps as possible directly in Italian language using US legal infrastructure.
- Often times you’ll be referred to the Consulate when there’s a quicker and cheaper alternative.
- You may be bounced back and forth between offices in Italy as no one knows the correct procedure. Always call ahead and make an appointment.
- It’s not uncommon for office staff to not know the correct procedure for foreign documents, come prepared with the legal requirements as you may know more about the specifics for the US than they do.
- Don’t be shy to hire a professional, we’re masters in US and Italian Bureaucracy and can save weeks or months!
Do you need an Italian legal translator? We provide fast turnaround service directly in Italy. We’re digital-native and all online!
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