Translations and Apostille: When They’re Needed for a Mortgage

Translations and apostille for mortgages in Georgia 📄🏠

Buying property in Georgia often involves documents issued abroad — passports, marriage or divorce certificates, bank statements, powers of attorney. Lenders and notaries may ask for certified translations and either an apostille or consular legalization. This guide explains when these are needed and how to prepare documents without delays.

Common foreign documents that may need authentication ✅

• Passport or identity document.
• Marriage or divorce certificates.
• Property ownership documents from another country.
• Notarized powers of attorney.
• Income certificates and bank statements.
• Court decisions and official certificates.

Requirements vary by bank and by notary, so always confirm the exact list with your lender before starting translations or legalizations.

Apostille vs consular legalization — what’s the difference? ⚖️

• Apostille is a simplified certification for documents between countries that are parties to the Hague Convention. If your country and Georgia both participate, an apostille is usually sufficient.
• Consular legalization is a longer process through the consulate when the issuing country is not a signatory.

Tip: don’t assume — check with the bank. Some lenders still require notarized translations or additional certifications even with an apostille.

Translations: who should do them? 📝

• Banks may require translations by a sworn translator or an accredited translation agency in Georgia.
• Some documents translated and notarized in the issuing country are accepted, but many banks ask for local notarization.

Practical step: obtain a certified translation and keep the original documents and notarized copies ready for verification.

Step‑by‑step workflow 🛠️

1. Ask your lender for the exact document list and format requirements.
2. Prepare originals and make notarized copies if required.
3. Obtain an apostille in the issuing country where needed, or consular legalization if apostille is not an option.
4. Get certified translations into Georgian or English according to the bank’s rules.
5. If required, notarize the translation locally in Georgia.
6. Submit to the bank and notary; respond promptly to any additional requests.

Common causes of delay ⏳

• Wrong type of legalization (ordinary notarization instead of apostille).
• Translation without certification when the bank needs a sworn translation.
• Old or illegible seals and stamps on the original documents.
• Different banks having different, unexpected requirements—always confirm in advance.

Realistic scenarios

• Foreign income certificates: the bank may require an apostille in the issuing country, certified translation, and possibly local notarization.
• Power of attorney for a representative: usually needs notarization, apostille, translation, and registration with a Georgian notary.

Quick pre‑submission checklist ✅

• [ ] Confirmed document list from the lender.
• [ ] Originals and notarized copies ready.
• [ ] Apostille or consular legalization obtained where needed.
• [ ] Certified translations completed according to bank rules.
• [ ] Bank and notary contacts for follow‑up.

Final practical advice and help 🤝

Start document preparation early — apostille and translation processes take time and may vary by country. If you’re unsure how to proceed, consult a legal expert or contact BuyHome for assistance. We can advise on document requirements and help coordinate translations and verifications.

To begin your property search or see available apartments, visit our site: https://buyhome.ge/en or use the property search: https://buyhome.ge/en/search

Need help preparing documents or checking bank requirements? Contact BuyHome — we’ll guide you through the process and help you secure the mortgage and property that fit your needs.