Ukrainian-French Translation in Ghent: Complete Guide

Looking for a Ukrainian-French or Ukrainian-Dutch translation in Ghent? Ghent has become one of the main host cities for Ukrainian refugees in Flanders, with Ghent University (UGent) also welcoming displaced Ukrainian students and researchers. This guide covers which documents need certified translation, which local bodies require them, and how to order online quickly.

Ukrainian community in Ghent: institutions and context

Since March 2022, Ghent has registered thousands of Ukrainian nationals under the EU Temporary Protection Directive. Key bodies Ukrainian residents interact with include CPAS Ghent (OCMW Gent) for social integration support, the Dienst Burgerzaken for residence registration, and local schools for enrolment of Ukrainian children. All official documents must be submitted in Dutch or French.

Ghent University (UGent) has a dedicated programme for Ukrainian researchers and students, requiring certified translations of diplomas, transcripts and other academic credentials. The Flemish diploma-recognition body NARIC Flanders requires sworn translations for all Ukrainian academic documents before processing equivalence requests.

Which Ukrainian documents need certified translation in Ghent?

• Birth and marriage certificates (civil registration, family reunification)
• Ukrainian passports and national identity cards
• Diplomas and academic transcripts (UGent admission, NARIC Flanders)
• School reports for children (enrolment in Ghent schools)
• Medical records and vaccination certificates
• Criminal record extracts (residence permit, employment)
• Notarial deeds and powers of attorney

How to obtain a certified Ukrainian translation in Ghent

In Belgium, any document in a foreign language submitted to an official body must be translated by a sworn translator — a certified professional registered with a Belgian Court of Appeal. Ukrainian, written in Cyrillic, always requires this type of translation. The procedure with TranslateBE is entirely online:

1. Scan or photograph your Ukrainian document.
2. Upload it on TranslateBE and specify the target language (Dutch or French).
3. Receive a fixed quote within one hour; confirm and pay by bank transfer.
4. Your certified translation arrives by email within 24–48 hours, with physical copy available on request.

Frequently asked questions

Does UGent accept sworn translations ordered online?

Yes. Ghent University and NARIC Flanders accept certified translations from any sworn translator registered with a Belgian Court of Appeal, regardless of whether the service was ordered online or through a physical office. The legal validity stems from the translator's status, not the ordering channel.

Which language should I request — Dutch or French?

For Ghent and all Flemish municipalities, Dutch is the standard administrative language. If you need to submit documents simultaneously to a federal body (such as the Foreigners' Office or a federal court), French or bilingual translations may also be accepted. We recommend Dutch for municipal and Flemish-level submissions.

How much does a Ukrainian-Dutch translation cost in Ghent?

Pricing depends on the document's length and complexity. A one-page birth certificate typically costs between €50 and €90. Larger documents such as diplomas with full transcripts are priced per page. Request a free quote on TranslateBE to get an exact figure within an hour.