Legal Translation and Notarization in Lithuania (2025 Guide for Foreigners)

Legal translation and notarization in Lithuania can feel confusing for foreigners because different Lithuanian authorities (and foreign authorities) ask for different “levels” of document formality. In practice, the rules depend on where the document will be used, what type of document it is, and whether the document is Lithuanian or foreign. This 2025 guide explains how legal translation and notarization in Lithuania typically works in Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda—what is legally happening, what documents are usually required, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

If you prepare correctly, you can reduce delays in immigration files, company registrations, banking, employment onboarding, university admissions, court matters, and cross-border transactions.

Legal Background in Lithuania for Legal Translation and Notarization

What “notarization” means in Lithuania

In Lithuania, notarization is performed by licensed notaries (notarai) who are legally authorized to certify documents, signatures, and copies. A notary does not rewrite or approve the content of a document; instead, they confirm identities, authenticity, and compliance with formal legal requirements.

Typical notarial acts include:

• Certifying signatures on documents
• Certifying copies as true copies of originals
• Attesting facts related to documents (where legally allowed)

Lithuania follows EU and international standards, including the Hague Apostille Convention, which affects how foreign documents are recognized.

What “legal translation” means

A legal translation is a complete and accurate translation prepared for official or legal use. Lithuanian authorities usually require:

• Full translation (no summaries)
• Accurate reproduction of names, dates, stamps, and formatting
• A certification statement from the translator or agency

In many cases, the translator’s signature must be notarized.

Apostille vs. legalization

Foreign documents used in Lithuania often require:

• Apostille (for Hague Convention countries), or
• Consular legalization (for non-Hague countries)

Important rule: Apostille or legalization applies to the original document or a notarized copy, not to the translation itself. Translation is a separate step performed afterward.

Step-by-Step Legal Process

1. Identify the receiving authority

Before translating anything, confirm:

• Where the document will be submitted
• Whether they require:
  • Translation only
  • Notarized translation
  • Certified copy plus translation
  • Apostille or legalization first

2. Prepare the correct source document

Authorities usually accept only:

• Originals
• Notarized copies
• Official registry extracts

Scans or screenshots are often rejected.

3. Choose a qualified legal translator

Select a translator or agency that:

• Works with official Lithuanian submissions
• Provides certification statements
• Can coordinate notarization if required

4. Ensure consistent personal data

Provide:

• Passport copy for correct name spelling
• Previous Lithuanian documents (if available)
• Clear explanation of where the document will be used

5. Notarial certification (if required)

If notarization is required:

• The translator signs a certification statement
• A Lithuanian notary certifies the translator’s signature
• The translation is bound to the source document or its copy

6. Formatting and binding

Official submissions often require:

• Page numbering
• Proper binding
• Clear reference to the original document

Loose or incomplete documents may be rejected.

7. Submission and record keeping

Always keep:

• Scanned copies of the full document set
• Proof of Apostille or legalization
• Submission receipts and dates

Key Legal Requirements & Documents

Commonly translated and notarized documents

• Passports and national IDs
• Birth, marriage, divorce certificates
• Police clearance certificates
• Diplomas and academic transcripts
• Employment contracts and HR letters
• Bank statements and financial records
• Company registration documents