F2Chapter on Faith and the Two Testimonies
A new Muslim pronouncing the shahada in a language other than Arabic
Is the Islam of one who pronounces the shahada in his native tongue valid, or is the Arabic wording required?
Hanafi
His Islam is valid by uttering their meaning in his own language immediately, even if he is able to learn Arabic.
Reference: Al-Durr al-Mukhtār
Maliki
His Islam is valid in his language if he is unable to use Arabic, and an accurate translation of the meaning is required.
Reference: Ḥāshiyat al-Dasūqī
Shāfiʿī
His Islam is valid by translation immediately, whether able or unable, because what is required is the heart's firm resolve upon the meaning.
Reference: Mughnī al-Muḥtāj
Hanbali
His Islam is valid in any language that conveys the intended meaning, and the Arabic wording is not a condition.
Reference: Maṭālib Ūlī al-Nuhā