French-speaking countries, different rules
French is an official language in several countries, and each has its own expectations for translations. An institution in France may want a translation by a sworn translator registered with French courts (traducteur assermenté); in Belgium, French, Dutch and German are official languages and the region where the document is used decides the language. Swiss cantons and Canadian provinces have their own practices too.
So “they want French” is not enough on its own. Tell us the country, city and institution. If the institution accepts a certified translation and apostille done in Türkiye, the process can be completed here; if not, finding out before you apply avoids unnecessary costs.
Accents, names and official titles
In French, accented letters such as é, è, ê, à and ç can change meaning, so they must be written in full in names and addresses. Turkish letters such as ğ, ı and ş are rendered as they appear in the passport. If an institution, school or degree has an official French name we use it; otherwise the source name is kept with an explanation.
French translation: documents and uses
| Document | Typical use |
|---|---|
| Diploma, transcript, course descriptions | Study applications in France, Belgium, Switzerland or Canada |
| Civil registry record, marriage certificate | Long-stay visa, family reunification, marriage |
| Diplomas from Francophone African countries | Recognition and university enrolment in Türkiye |
| Company documents, contracts | Partnerships and tenders in French-speaking countries |
| Bank letter, payslips, title deed | Proof of means for visa applications |
Documents from Francophone Africa
In countries such as Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon or Congo, education and official documents are mostly issued in French. Citizens of these countries who study or work in Türkiye have their diplomas, birth certificates and marriage certificates translated into Turkish. The issuing country’s apostille or consular certification requirement may differ; that step is completed in the issuing country, before translation.
Frequently asked questions
An institution in France wants a “traducteur assermenté”. Will a translation done in Türkiye work?
Some French institutions only accept translations by sworn translators in France. Ask the institution in writing whether it accepts a certified translation and apostille done in Türkiye.
Should I translate into French or English for an application in Canada?
Canada has two official languages; translate into whichever the institution or province asks for. Share the application guide with us.
Is it a problem if accents are lost?
It can be. Accents in names and addresses are kept exactly as the issuing institution wrote them, and official French names are used for institutions.
This guide is for general information. Confirm the document and certification requirements for your application with the relevant institution, and include the current list of requirements in your translation request.