💡 Why Dual-Language NDAs Matter
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Legal Clarity
Both parties understand their obligations in their native language, reducing the risk of disputes over contract interpretation.
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Cross-Border Enforceability
A translated version makes it easier to enforce the NDA in foreign courts where the other party has assets.
🤝
Trust Building
Providing a bilingual agreement shows respect for your business partner's language and culture, strengthening the relationship.
🎯 Common Use Cases
💼
International Partnerships
Joint ventures, distribution agreements, and business development with foreign companies.
👷
Foreign Employees
Employees working in foreign offices who need to understand confidentiality obligations.
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Offshore Development
Software development teams in Russia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Asia.
🏢
Cross-Border M&A
Due diligence and acquisition discussions with international companies.
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Import/Export Business
Manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers in international trade relationships.
🎓
Academic Collaboration
Research partnerships with foreign universities and academic institutions.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a dual-language NDA?
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A dual-language NDA ensures both parties fully understand the confidentiality terms in their native language. This is essential for international business because it reduces disputes, ensures informed consent, and makes the agreement easier to enforce in foreign jurisdictions where the other party may have assets.
Which language version controls if there's a conflict?
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Our dual-language NDAs include a "controlling language" clause that you can customize. Options include: English controls (typical for US-based companies), the foreign language controls (when operating in that jurisdiction), or both versions are equally authoritative (for true bilateral relationships). We recommend choosing the language of the governing law.
Are bilingual NDAs legally enforceable?
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Yes, dual-language NDAs are legally enforceable when properly drafted. The key requirements are: (1) including a controlling language clause, (2) ensuring accurate legal translation of all terms, (3) having both parties sign the same document, and (4) following the formalities required by the governing law.
Should both language versions be in the same document?
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We recommend keeping both versions in a single document using either a side-by-side column layout or a sequential layout. This ensures both parties sign the same agreement and makes it clear that both versions are part of the same contract. Our export tool lets you choose the layout that works best for your situation.
What if my counterparty requests changes to one language only?
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Any changes must be reflected in both language versions to maintain consistency. If your counterparty requests changes to their language version, work together to agree on the meaning in both languages. Never sign an agreement where the two versions say different things - this creates ambiguity that could be exploited in a dispute.
Ready to Create Your Bilingual NDA?
Choose your language combination above, or explore our tools to preview and export your dual-language agreement.