Do You Need the Original Document or Is a Scan Enough?
In many cases, a clear scan or high-quality digital copy is enough to prepare a sworn translation. That is one of the reasons the process can often move quickly, even when you are outside Spain.
When a Scan Is Usually Enough
A scan is usually sufficient for preparing the translation when the entire document is visible, the text is fully legible, stamps, seals, signatures, and dates can be read, all pages are included, and the document is already in its final form.
When the Original May Still Matter
Even if a scan is enough for preparing the translation, the authority receiving your documents may still want the original foreign document, a paper copy of the sworn translation, or both the original and the translation at an in-person appointment.
The Safest Approach
For the translation itself: a clear scan is often enough. For the procedure you are doing: check whether the receiving office wants the original, a copy, a digital submission, or all of the above.
Ready to send your documents?
In most cases, scanned PDFs are all you need. Send your documents directly to Alba to get started.