What Is a Notarized Translation? Legal Meaning, Process, and How to Get One

What Is a Notarized Translation?

A notarized translation is a translation of a document that includes a signed statement by the translator, certifying its accuracy, and is then authenticated by a Notary Public. However, it’s important to note that the notary verifies only the identity of the translator, not the content or quality of the translation itself. 

This extra step is sometimes required for official or sensitive documents including immigration applications, court proceedings, academic records, financial paperwork, business contracts, and official government documents.

Notarized vs. Certified Translation: What’s the Difference?

• Certified Translation: Completed by a professional translator who provides a signed statement, called a certificate of translation accuracy, attesting that the translation is complete and true to the original document. Certified translations are widely accepted for visa, USCIS, academic, or employment documents.
• Notarized Translation: The translator's certificate is signed before a Notary Public, who verifies the translator’s identity. The notarization often adds credibility and legal formality for certain official uses, but does not guarantee translation quality.

When Do You Need a Notarized Translation?

You typically need a notarized translation if you are submitting:

• Documents to courts or government agencies (certain states or countries)
• Academic transcripts or diplomas (some universities and foreign governments)
• Business contracts for international deals
• Certain immigration or visa documents (check agency-specific guidelines)

Always confirm requirements as some agencies accept certified translations only, while others request notarized copies.

The Legal Importance of Notarized Translations

Notarization makes the translator's statement legally valid and deters fraud, protecting both the document owner and the receiving authority. It verifies who performed the translation and not the accuracy of the work itself, so you must choose a reputable translator or translation service.

How Does the Notarization Process Work?

1. Translation: A professional translates your document and provides a signed certificate of accuracy.
2. Notary Public: The translator appears before a Notary Public, who verifies their identity and witnesses the signature.
3. Notary Stamp & Seal: The notary completes the certificate, adding an official stamp or seal.
4. Submission: You receive a notarized translation, which you can submit as required.
   
   

Both physical and remote (digital) notarization are widely accepted in the USA, but always ask the recipient agency about format preferences.

How to Choose the Right Translation Service

• Choose translators or agencies with experience providing notarized translations for your document type (legal, academic, etc.).
• Prefer American Translators Association (ATA)-certified professionals for higher standards.
• Read reviews and confirm they offer clear, signed, and notarized certificates of accuracy.
• Ensure data privacy and confidentiality are guaranteed.

Reliable Certified Translation Services from Sure Translation

Sure Translations is an online certified translation site offering reliable language conversions at the lowest internet-based per-page rates, $18 per page. As an official member of the ATA and 100% U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) acceptance guaranteed, you can trust us to deliver accurate, fast, and legally certified translations.  

Contact us to discuss your needs for USCIS certified translation services. Our knowledgeable, experienced, and professional team can translate into over 90 languages across almost any format. So, to be sure your translation is valid and legal, start your certified translation journey with Sure Translation today.

Note that Sure Translation specializes exclusively in certified translation services for official documents such as driver's licenses, birth certificates, academic transcripts, and more. The company does not offer notarized translations. Instead, every translation includes a stamped certification of accuracy from an ATA-certified translator, which is accepted by USCIS and most institutions for legal and immigration purposes. If your receiving authority specifically requires notarization in addition to certification, you will need to seek out a notary service, as Sure Translation provides only certified, not notarized, translations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is notarization always required?

No. Many organizations accept certified translations only. Requirements vary by state, agency, and type of document.

Can translations be notarized online?

Yes, remote notarization is accepted in many jurisdictions, but verify with the receiving entity first.

Does notarization guarantee translation accuracy?

No. It only proves the translator’s identity and their signature, not the translation quality.

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