International conference, multilingual seminar, shareholder meeting with foreign partners: conference interpreting is a service that must be planned and booked in advance. This comprehensive guide covers the different types, the equipment required, rates in Belgium and how to book your interpreter without the stress.
The three types of interpreting: simultaneous, consecutive and liaison
Each type of interpreting suits a different context. Choosing the wrong mode can disrupt your event or unnecessarily inflate your budget.
| Mode | How it works | Ideal for | Equipment required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simultaneous | Interpreter translates in real time from a booth | Large conferences, EU, UN, summits | Booths, microphones, headsets, sound system |
| Consecutive | Speaker talks, then interpreter translates in segments | Meetings, speeches, negotiations, interviews | None: interpreter takes notes |
| Liaison | Interpreter translates phrase by phrase in both directions | Bilateral meetings, site visits, interviews | None: interpreter present in person |
Simultaneous interpreting
This is the most technically and mentally demanding mode. The interpreter translates in near-real time (1 to 3 seconds lag) from a soundproofed booth, using a microphone and headset. Due to the intense concentration required, two interpreters work as a pair, alternating every 20 to 30 minutes. This mode is essential for large-scale conferences where participants cannot wait for the interpretation.
Consecutive interpreting
The speaker talks for 2 to 5 minutes, then pauses to allow the interpreter to render the speech in the target language. The interpreter takes notes using a personal shorthand system. This mode extends speaking time by approximately 50% but requires no technical equipment. It is perfectly suited to official speeches, award ceremonies and medium-sized meetings.
Liaison interpreting (or whispered interpreting)
The interpreter sits alongside a small group (maximum 1 to 3 people) and whispers a continuous interpretation. Ideal for company visits, bilateral meetings or informal negotiations. No equipment required. For a larger group, whispered interpreting can use portable receivers (tour guide systems such as Sennheiser, Bosch or Williams Sound).
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Book my interpreterEquipment for conference interpreting
For simultaneous interpreting, equipment is a critical factor. The following is generally required:
- ISO 4043 interpretation booths: portable soundproofed booths (minimum dimensions 1.60 m x 1.60 m x 2.00 m) with direct line of sight to the stage
- Interpreter console: with channel selection, volume control and relay function for rare languages
- Receivers and headsets for participants: quantity based on audience size, with each language on a dedicated channel
- Sound system and technician: essential for events with 50+ participants; for small groups, simplified equipment suffices
- Tour guide systems / portable equipment: for small groups in whispered mode (Sennheiser, Bosch, Williams Sound)
Practical tip
Schedule the installation and technical tests the evening before or the morning of your event. A sound check with the interpreters and organisers prevents 90% of technical issues on the day.
Conference interpreting rates in Belgium
Rates vary according to the interpreting mode, language pair, duration and preparation required. Below are the indicative ranges applied in Belgium in 2025:
| Service | Half day (4h) | Full day (8h) |
|---|---|---|
| Simultaneous (1 pair, 1 language) | 600 - 900 euros | 1,000 - 1,600 euros |
| Consecutive (1 interpreter) | 350 - 550 euros | 600 - 950 euros |
| Liaison / whispered (1 interpreter) | 280 - 450 euros | 500 - 800 euros |
| Booth and equipment rental | 300 - 800 euros / day depending on configuration | |
Rare or exotic languages (Japanese, Chinese, Arabic, Swahili, etc.) may incur a surcharge of 20 to 40%. Travel outside Brussels is billed at the Belgian legal mileage rate. Looking for rates for document translations? Consult our dedicated rate schedule.
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How to book your interpreter: the checklist to follow
A good booking requires anticipation. Here is what you need to plan:
- Book at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance: experienced conference interpreters are in high demand, especially in Brussels (the European capital)
- Provide preparatory documents: speeches, presentations, technical glossaries: the better prepared the interpreter, the smoother the delivery
- Specify the context and audience: a medical conference has very different terminological requirements from an international business meeting
- Confirm on-site logistics: booth placement, technical access, breaks, catering for the interpreters
- Arrange a technical contact on the day to handle any unexpected sound or positioning issues
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many interpreters are needed for a full-day conference?
For simultaneous interpreting, a minimum of 2 interpreters per booth/languageis required for a full day, due to the intensive concentration involved. For consecutive or liaison interpreting, one interpreter can cover a full day with sufficient breaks.
Is remote interpreting (RSI) possible?
Yes. Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI) is increasingly used for webinars, hybrid meetings and online conferences. Interpreters work from a hub or from home, and participants receive the audio via a dedicated platform (Zoom, Interactio, KUDO, etc.). TranslateBE offers this service.
Is Brussels well-served for conference interpreting?
Brussels is one of the best-equipped cities in the world for conference interpreting, thanks to the European and international institutions. TranslateBE has a network of certified interpreters covering more than 70 languages, available for events across Belgium, Luxembourg and neighbouring countries. Do you also need sworn translations for your event documents?
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Express booking available. Certified interpreters in Brussels and across Belgium.