Translations for work visa

Hi there, I've been going through hell in the work permit process in Brazil, coming from Belgium.
I went through an agency that specialises in translations and legalizations to get my documents in order after the recent change.

My lawyer is now telling me that the translations won't be accepted because she claims they aren't ‘sworn' translators... does anybody know a bit about this or have some recent experience regarding translations?

Also.; my documents need to be apostilled before submission, in case that's relevant.

Since 1916, any document in a foreign language intended for official use in Brazil has to be translated into Portuguese by a person who has passed a public examination and been recognized by the local Junta Comercial (like a Chamber of Commerce) as competent and authorized to provide official translations.  That person is a Sworn Translator, and their work product is a Sworn Translation.
As a recognized profession, they're easy to find in any major city, and many minor ones.  If your docs are in French, there should be no problem.  If they're in Flemish, you may need to go to BH, Rio, or São Paulo.  In fact, I'm surprised that your lawyer hasn't already given you a referral.

Dear abthree
There is no Flemish sworn translator in Brazil, thus you must get your documents in French or English.
Also you need apostilla before translated.
I recomend "Express traduções e intérpretes  to do your sworn translations
They serve  the whole coutrry

Belgian documents are usually in French as well as Flemish (Dutch). I was told only after I had a service here translate all my documents, so I just lost a few weeks and couple hundred euros for my lawyers incompetence (not the first time).

The translation agency explained after asking one of their former clients that their issues translation was suitable for him to get his work permit. But I didn't want to take the risk, as my lawyer wanted to pull out of her guantentee in the contract.. I don't know what might have changed since that person obtained his work visa.
Just to conclude, I had my documents sent to Brasíllia and a firm translated the documents there the ‘right way'. Couple extra hundred euros but I should be submitting this week.

Cross your fingers!

So FYI, have all your documents apostilled and then sent to Brazil for translation, no matter what other translation companies tell you!

LikeMike101,

Thanks for the update.  Sorry to hear about your troubles - glad you were able to work them out.
What was the name of the firm in Brasília that did a good job for you?