Spain and Latin America: one language, different institutions
Spanish is an official language in Spain and in many Latin American countries such as Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Chile and Peru. Terms and institution names vary between countries; the same degree may have a different equivalent in Spain and in Mexico. Telling us the country where the document will be used ensures the right terminology.
Official bodies in Spain usually want translations by sworn translators authorised by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (traductor jurado). Ask the institution before applying whether it accepts a certified translation and apostille done in Türkiye. In Latin America, practice varies by country and institution.
Double surnames and special characters
In Spanish-speaking countries people usually have two surnames, one from the father and one from the mother (for example García López). As Turkish documents have a single surname field, the translation follows the name and surname order in the person’s passport. Letters such as ñ, á, é, í, ó and ú are written in full in names and addresses, and Turkish names are rendered as they appear in the passport.
Spanish translation: documents and uses
| Document | Typical use |
|---|---|
| Diploma and transcript | Study and recognition applications in Spain or Latin America |
| Civil registry record, criminal record | Long-stay visa and residence applications |
| Marriage certificate, birth certificate | Marrying a foreign spouse, registering a child |
| Trade registry record, contracts | Trade with Spanish-speaking countries |
| Birth or marriage certificate from Latin America | Marriage and civil registry procedures in Türkiye |
Before you send the document
- Tell us the country and institution where it will be used.
- Find out whether the institution requires a traductor jurado.
- Include the passport’s identity page; the order of the two surnames follows it.
- For documents from Latin America, check whether the apostille was obtained in the issuing country.
Frequently asked questions
An institution in Spain wants a traducción jurada. What should I do?
Ask the institution in writing whether it accepts a certified translation and apostille done in Türkiye. If not, the translation may need to be done by an authorised traductor jurado in Spain.
Can I use the same translation for Mexico and Spain?
Not always. Terms and institutional requirements can differ. If you will use the document in both countries, tell us at the start.
How are two surnames written in a Turkish document?
The name and surname order in the person’s passport is kept. If needed, a note states which surname comes from the father and which from the mother.
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.