Cannes runs on two rhythms. The trade fair calendar — the Festival, MIPIM, MIPCOM, MIPTV — where everything happens in a few days and available interpreters become scarce. And the year-round rhythm of property transactions, notarial deeds and administrative procedures for an international resident clientele.

The two call for different answers. This page sets out what applies in your situation.

Trade fair season: anticipation is the only variable

During the Festival, MIPIM or MIPCOM, demand for interpreters in Cannes far exceeds available supply. Local professionals are booked several weeks ahead, and accommodation is under the same pressure.

As our practice is based in the Hérault, travel is arranged in advance. In practical terms: the earlier the request, the more likely it can be met. A request made a few days ahead during a trade fair has little chance of being fulfilled, whichever provider is approached.

For these periods, video conferencing is often the most reliable solution: preparatory meeting, discussion with a partner, commercial interview. It removes both travel and accommodation constraints.

Business interpreting: the formats

Consecutive — the interpreter renders each contribution after it is spoken. Suited to business meetings, negotiations and interviews: it allows time for precision.

Whispered — quiet real-time rendering for one or two people, without interrupting the meeting. Suited to round tables and presentations where only one party needs support.

Liaison — for stand visits, movement between appointments and informal networking exchanges.

Remote — video conferencing, beforehand or alongside an on-site assignment.

One clarification: simultaneous interpreting from a booth, as used in large plenary conferences, is a distinct profession requiring two interpreters per booth and dedicated technical equipment. For that kind of requirement we refer you to specialist providers rather than take it on.

What requires sworn status in Cannes

An important distinction, often misunderstood: a business meeting requires no sworn status at all. What matters there is competence and discretion.

Sworn status becomes mandatory as soon as an administration, a notary or a court is the recipient:

  • Notarial deeds — property sale, gift, inheritance, marriage contract: the notary is personally liable for each party's genuine understanding of the deed, and therefore requires a sworn interpreter whenever a party does not speak French.
  • Marriage or civil partnership (PACS) at Cannes town hall: a sworn interpreter is required for the preliminary interview and the ceremony.
  • Applications to the préfecture des Alpes-Maritimes — residence permit, naturalisation: sworn translation of civil status documents.
  • Court proceedings — Cannes falls under the tribunal judiciaire de Cannes at first instance, and the Cour d'appel d'Aix-en-Provence on appeal.

A point that comes up often: a sworn translator's authority to certify applies throughout French territory, regardless of the court of appeal of registration. A translation by an expert registered with any French court of appeal is admissible in Cannes as anywhere else.

Property and yachting

Two sectors that shape activity in Cannes throughout the year.

Property transactions. A complete file generally involves both services: sworn translation of the documents beforehand — civil status, supporting documents, powers of attorney — then interpreting on the day of signature at the notary's office. Handling them together avoids delays.

Yachting. Dealings with crews, shipyards and brokers, often in English and Russian. Sale and charter contracts and registration documents fall under either non-certified or sworn translation depending on the case — the recipient determines which.

Our languages

We work in Arabic, Russian, English, French, Italian, German and Spanish.

  • English: the working language of the trade fairs, yachting and international business.
  • Russian: Russian-speaking residents and investors, property transactions, notarial deeds.
  • Arabic — all dialects: Gulf and North African clients, acquisitions, stays, civil status files.

Arranging an assignment

Travel from the Hérault requires a few days' notice, and more during trade fair periods. That time also allows the assignment to be prepared: context, terminology, participants — work that largely determines the quality of the result on a technical subject.

For document translation no travel is required: digital submission, return signed and stamped by post.