Understand and translate Swiss official letters
Get a plain explanation of an official letter and a clear translation in your language.
Everyday example
Example with fictional details
A municipality asks for missing evidence for your application. A translation should help you understand the specific action required. Names, dates and reference numbers must remain accurate.
What to check
- Include the complete letter, attachments and reverse side.
- Identify the sender, application and requested document.
- Compare deadlines, amounts and addresses with the original.
Next step
Summarise the task in one sentence: which document, to whom and by when? Ask the sender to clarify unreadable or ambiguous passages. A Swiss-Büro explanation does not replace a certified translation when one is required.
Check a translation against the original
Photograph every page straight and in good light. Check whether margin notes, reverse sides and enclosures belong to the letter. Names, references, amounts and dates must be fully legible. Where recognition is uncertain, compare the text with the original rather than accepting a suggested reading without checking.
Then read the explanation and translation alongside the source. Mark what you are being asked to do and which information is missing. Preserve the original technical terms when asking the sender a question so they can identify the passage. A clear translation helps you understand the content; for a formal submission, check separately which language and translation evidence the recipient requires.
No legal or tax advice. Verify deadlines and amounts before sending.
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