Must all foreign documents be legalized?
No. It depends on issuing country, applicable treaties, and document type. Always check official guidance before filing.
Hoja 61Verified: April 8, 2026
Sheet 61: Document legalization and translation
Sheet 61 explains when a foreign document must be legalized, apostilled or translated. Applying it correctly reduces requests for corrections and avoids formal filing rejections.
Official source and verification
Entity: Ministerio de Inclusión, Seguridad Social y Migraciones
Source last update: Not published on the official record
Last internal verification: April 8, 2026
This content does not replace individual legal advice. Always verify in the official source before filing documentation.
Useful immigration notices
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When to use this resource
- When your file includes certificates or documents issued outside Spain.
- When you are unsure whether a sworn translation is required.
- When the office asks you to correct foreign-document formalities.
Common supporting documents
- Complete and legible foreign document.
- Apostille or legalization, when applicable.
- Sworn translation into Spanish or required co-official language.
- Copy to attach to the file.
Recommended steps
- Identify issuing country and document type.
- Confirm whether apostille or full legalization chain applies.
- Verify if a sworn translation is required.
- Prepare originals and copies for the filing channel.
- Submit together with the rest of your file.
Common mistakes
- Submitting non-sworn translation where sworn translation is mandatory.
- Submitting incomplete apostille or one not linked to the main document.
- Assuming all foreign documents follow the same formal rule.
How to cite this resource
Suggested citation:
España Extranjería (April 8, 2026). Sheet 61: Document legalization and translation. https://www.espanaextranjeria.com/en/recursos/hoja-61-legalizacion-traduccion
Resource FAQ
Can machine translation be used in immigration filing?
Usually not for documents that require sworn translation. Use the format accepted by the competent office.
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