Spanish consulate in Chicago: translation requirements
Updated · Official sources checked
Short answer
The consulate asks for an official or certified translation without naming the type. A sworn translator appointed by Spain is accepted; ask before using a local one.
Who may translate
Certified translator
Local certified translator accepted?
Not stated
Criminal record
FBI only; max. 6 months; federal apostille
Medical certificate
Bilingual; max. 3 months
What the Chicago consulate asks for
| Topic | What it says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Translations | “Translated into Spanish by a certified translator”; bilingual medical certificate | Official page |
| Criminal record | FBI only; max. 6 months; federal apostille | Official page |
| Medical certificate | Bilingual; max. 3 months | Official page |
| Financial documents | Original, stamped documents; translation not stated | Official page |
| Who may translate | Certified translator | Official page |
Documents with their own rule here
- Medical Certificate (Non-Lucrative Visa): Chicago asks for a bilingual medical certificate, in English and Spanish, issued no more than three months before you apply. A certificate issued that way needs no separate translation. If it is in English only, it needs a translation into Spanish.
Before you order
- Applying at a US consulate: most name a certified translator for the visa itself. Only a sworn translation is also official once you file anything with an office in Spain.
- Apostille first, then the sworn translation, so the translation covers the apostilled document.
- Mind the clocks: criminal records no older than six months everywhere that states it, the medical certificate usually no older than three months.
Criminal record certificates
We are not taking criminal record certificates yet. Any sworn translator on the Ministry’s register can do it.
Questions
Juranza is a translation service, not a law firm, and nothing here is legal advice. Requirements published by Spanish consulates and immigration offices change without notice — always check your own consulate before submitting.
Does the Spanish consulate in Chicago accept a certified translation?
Its page does not say which kind of certified or official translation it means. A sworn translator appointed by Spain is accepted; ask the consulate before using a local one.
Which criminal record certificate does the consulate in Chicago ask for?
Its non-lucrative visa page says: FBI only; max. 6 months; federal apostille.