Is a municipality or a notary asking you for a translated certificate of customfor your marriage in Belgium? Here is what this document is for, when it must be translated, and how to put together an accepted file.
📖 See also: mixed marriage: documents to translate · certificate of celibacy · translating a birth certificate
What is a certificate of custom?
The certificate of custom is a document that certifies the law applicable in your country of origin, in particular your conditions to marry (matrimonial capacity, absence of impediment). Belgian municipalities often request it for a marriage with a foreign national, in addition to the certificate of celibacy and the birth certificate.
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Certificate of custom to translate?
Faithful sworn translation of your certificate, ready for the municipality or the notary. Quote within 1 hour.
When does it need to be translated?
If the certificate is written in a foreign language, the municipality generally requires a sworn translation into French or Dutch. The document may be issued by the embassy or the authorities of your country: check that it is recent and complete before having it translated.
Good to know: each municipality has its own requirements for a marriage. Ask for the exact list of documents (certificate of custom, celibacy, birth) and the target language before starting the translations.
Sworn or professional?
For a municipality or a notary, plan for a sworn translation, signed and stamped by a sworn translator. This is the level expected for an official document related to civil status.
How to proceed
- Obtain the certificate of custom from your embassy or the competent authorities.
- Check the list of documents and the target language with the municipality.
- Entrust the sworn translation to a sworn translator.
- Submit the complete file with the associated documents.
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Your complete marriage file
Sworn translation of your certificate of custom and the associated documents, in coherence.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where do I obtain a certificate of custom?
Generally from the embassy or consulate of your country of origin, or from the competent authorities. The municipality will indicate the expected form.
Should I also translate the birth certificate and the certificate of celibacy?
Yes, most often the entire marriage file is requested. See our guide mixed marriage.
Into which language should I translate?
French or Dutch depending on the municipality. Ask for the target language before ordering.
Marriage date approaching?
Express available for your certificate of custom and your documents. Translations ready for the municipality.