FAQ – Certified Translation, Apostille and Legalization in Morocco

In Morocco the terms are often used interchangeably. What matters is that the translation is signed and stamped by a translator approved by the courts (traducteur agréé). This is the version accepted by Moroccan authorities and by most foreign institutions.

Standard civil status documents are usually ready within 24 to 72 hours. Longer documents, rare languages or files that also need an apostille or legalization take longer – we give you a firm deadline with your quote.

Yes. For most translations a clear scan or photo is enough to start. If the receiving authority requires the original or a certified copy to be attached, we tell you in advance and organise the collection.

The price depends on the language pair, the number of pages, the urgency and whether apostille or legalization is added. Send us your document and you receive a precise, free quote – usually the same day.

Countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention and have not objected to Morocco's accession. Germany, for example, raised an objection, so documents for Germany still need consular legalization. Non-member countries such as the UAE or Qatar also require legalization. We check this for you.

It depends on the destination authority. Often the original document is apostilled and then translated; some authorities also require an apostille on the sworn translation. We confirm the exact requirement before starting.

No – an apostille is always issued by the country that issued the document. For foreign documents we coordinate the apostille in the issuing country through the ABC Translation international network and translate it for use in Morocco.

Usually a few working days, depending on the authority and the city. Urgent handling is possible for many documents – ask us for a quote.

When the destination country is not a member of the Apostille Convention (for example the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait or Egypt), or when it has objected to Morocco's accession, as Germany has. We confirm the correct procedure for your document and country.

In most cases no. We submit and collect documents on your behalf. A few embassies require the applicant in person for specific documents – we tell you in advance.

Very often yes: many embassies only legalize documents accompanied by a sworn translation into their official language. We prepare it as part of the same file.

Often yes, but some countries also require the certification itself to be apostilled or legalized. We check the destination's rules and complete the chain if needed.

Certification of copies in Morocco applies to documents presented with their original. For foreign documents we advise you on the best route – certification in Morocco or in the issuing country via our international network.

Yes – the person who signs must appear in person with their ID. We prepare the document, book the step and handle everything that follows (translation, apostille, legalization).

Yes. You can sign before a Moroccan consulate, or before a local notary with an apostille or legalization and a sworn translation into Arabic or French. We tell you which option the Moroccan institution concerned (conservation foncière, bank, notary) will accept.

For use in Morocco, Arabic or French is generally expected; for use abroad, the official language of the destination country. We provide the sworn translation.

We prepare, translate and certify documents. For legal advice on the content of your power of attorney we recommend consulting a notary or lawyer – we can coordinate with yours.

Usually a copy of your ID, the key details of the document (name, date and place of registration, reference number if known) and a signed authorisation. Some documents can only be requested by the person concerned or a close relative – we tell you exactly what is required.

Yes. We ship originals by tracked courier and can send scans in advance so you can start your procedure.

Yes. Through ABC Translation's international offices and partners we retrieve documents in many countries, and translate and legalize them for use in Morocco.

Ideally one to two weeks ahead, and more for conferences with simultaneous interpreting. For urgent appointments, contact us – we often find a solution within 24–48 hours in major cities.

Yes. Many notary signings and family matters in Morocco run more smoothly in Darija or Tamazight, and our interpreters can work between these and French, English, Spanish and other languages.

By half-day or full day, depending on the language pair, the type of interpreting, the location and travel. Send us your request for a quote.