Sworn vs. certified vs. notarized translation, explained

Someone asked to provide a "sworn translation," a "certified translation" or a "notarized translation" is often being asked for the same underlying document, described with whichever term is standard in their own country's system. The three terms are not synonyms, and knowing the difference avoids paying for the wrong service.

Sworn translation

Used mainly in civil-law countries (Spain, France, much of Latin America) to describe a translation performed by a translator formally authorized by the State, whose signature carries legal weight on its own. Colombia's "traductor oficial" system is the local equivalent: an official translator accredited by the State, whose signature and seal make the translation valid on their own, without a separate certification statement.

Certified translation

The term used in the U.S. and most common-law countries. It doesn't require a State-appointed translator; instead, any competent translator can produce it, as long as it's accompanied by a signed statement certifying that the translation is complete and accurate. USCIS filings, for example, require this certification statement, not a "sworn" translator in the civil-law sense.

Notarized translation

A notary public authenticates the translator's signature on the certification statement or on the sworn translation, confirming that the signature is genuine. The notary does not review or vouch for the accuracy of the translation itself, only for the authenticity of the signature. Some institutions require notarization on top of certification or a sworn translation; others don't require it at all.

Which one do you actually need?

For documents originating in Colombia and headed abroad, an official ("sworn") translation from a State-recognized Colombian translator is usually the strongest starting point, since it already carries legal weight domestically. Whether notarization or an apostille is needed on top of it depends entirely on the receiving country and institution, which is worth confirming before ordering the translation.