How to Use a Turkish Document Abroad
Last updated: July 24, 2026 · Uğur Arı — sworn translator, Kartal 12th Notary Office
To use a Turkish document abroad, you usually apostille it in Turkey first, then have it sworn-translated into English. Some countries and institutions require a translation certified in their own country; confirm the accepted type with the institution that will receive the document before you start.
1. Apostille in Turkey
An official Turkish document going abroad is apostilled in Turkey first: administrative documents at the district governorship (kaymakamlık) or the provincial governorship (valilik), judicial and notarial documents at the courthouse.
The apostille is always issued in the country that produced the document and is valid between Hague Convention member states.
2. Sworn English translation
After the apostille, the document is translated from Turkish into English by a sworn translator, signed and stamped. If the procedure requires it, the translation is then notarized in Turkey.
3. Confirm the destination's acceptance
Some countries (US, Canada) accept a translator-certified translation, while others require a translator registered in their own country. Ask the receiving institution — university, immigration, employer — which type it accepts before you translate.
Step by step
- 1Apostille in Turkey
Apostille the document at the governorship or the courthouse.
- 2Ask the acceptance rule
Ask the destination institution which translation type it requires.
- 3Sworn English translation
Turkish → English translation, signed and stamped.
- 4Submit
Submit the apostilled and translated document to the institution.
Is the apostille done before the translation?
Usually yes — the apostille goes on the original before translation. The exact order depends on the receiving institution.
Is a translation done in Turkey valid abroad?
In most cases an apostilled document plus a sworn translation is accepted; some institutions require a translation certified in their own country. Confirm in advance.
- Which Documents to Translate for a University Application Abroad →
- Do You Need to Send the Original for a Sworn Translation? →
- Turkish Sworn Translation vs. 'Certified Translation' Abroad →
- Is Same-Day Sworn English Translation Possible? →
- Apostille in Turkey: where to get it and when →
- Sworn vs. notarized translation in Turkey →
Requirements are ultimately set by the receiving institution, notary office or authority; practices vary and cannot be guaranteed. This guide is general information, not legal advice.