Do You Need a Certified Translation for the Croatian Police (MUP)? A Guide for Expats

Are you an expat in Croatia dealing with MUP paperwork?

If you’re a foreign national living, working, or planning to move to Croatia, chances are you’ll be in contact with MUP (Ministarstvo unutarnjih poslova – the Croatian Ministry of the Interior). Whether you’re applying for a residence permit, registering an address, or handling work or family reunification documents, MUP often requires certified translations of your foreign documents.

So what exactly do you need – and where do you start?


📝 What is a certified translation and why does MUP require it?

In Croatia, a certified translation (službeni prijevod) must be done by a court-certified translator (sudski tumač). This is not the same as a regular translation – it includes an official stamp and signature and is legally valid before Croatian institutions.

MUP requires certified translations to ensure the accuracy and legal standing of any foreign document submitted during the application process.


📑 Which documents usually need to be translated?

Based on experience with expat clients in Rijeka and across Croatia, these are the most commonly requested documents for translation:

  • Passport copy or ID
  • Birth certificate
  • Marriage certificate or divorce decree
  • Proof of address (lease agreement, utility bill)
  • Bank statements or proof of funds
  • Employment contract
  • Health insurance documents
  • University diploma or high school certificate
  • Criminal record certificate (Certificate of no criminal convictions)

Always check with your local MUP office or legal advisor for an updated list – requirements may vary slightly depending on your purpose of stay (work, study, family reunification, etc.).


📍 Who can provide certified translations in Croatia?

Only a court-appointed translator (sudski tumač) is authorized to produce certified translations accepted by MUP.

If you’re in Rijeka or submitting your application through MUP Rijeka, you can work with me directly – I’m a court-certified English–Croatian translator with years of experience helping expats, students, and professionals handle their documents smoothly.

I provide:

✔ Fast turnaround
✔ Clear instructions on how to prepare your documents
✔ Scanned copies by email and originals available for pickup or delivery
✔ Translations accepted by all Croatian institutions


⏳ How long does it take?

Most short documents (1–2 pages) are translated same day. Larger sets may take a day, but I always aim to meet your deadlines – especially if you have a scheduled MUP appointment.


💬 Final Tip for Expats

If you’re not sure which documents to translate or how to prepare them properly (apostille, legalization, certified copy, etc.), feel free to get in touch – I’ll guide you through the entire process.


Need certified translations for your MUP application?
Contact me today for a fast and professional service. I’ll help you get everything ready – stress-free and on time.

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Objavio Sanja

Certified translator in Rijeka, Croatia

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