Notarized vs. Certified Translation: What's the Difference?
Every notarized translation starts as a certified translation, but not every certified translation needs to be notarized. Certification means the translator has signed a statement attesting the translation is accurate and complete. Notarization adds a notary public's verification that the person who signed the certification is who they say they are. USCIS doesn't require notarization, but some courts, schools, and state agencies do.
What Does Certification Actually Verify?
Certification verifies the accuracy and completeness of the translation itself, through the translator's signed statement. It says nothing about the translator's identity beyond their name on the document.
What Does Notarization Add on Top of Certification?
Notarization adds a notary public's verification that the person who signed the certification statement is who they claim to be. The notary doesn't review the translation's accuracy, only confirms the signer's identity.
Does USCIS Require Notarized Translations?
No. USCIS requires certification, but not notarization. A properly certified translation, without notarization, satisfies USCIS's standard for immigration filings.
Which Agencies Typically Require Notarization?
Some state courts, universities and credential evaluation services, and some employers reviewing foreign diplomas or licenses require notarization in addition to certification. It varies by the specific receiving agency, not by a single national standard.
How Do You Know if You Need Notarization?
The safest approach is to confirm directly with the agency, court, or institution receiving the document. If there's any doubt, requesting notarization upfront avoids the need to resubmit later.
Does Notarization Cost More or Take Longer?
Notarization is priced as an add-on to the base certified translation and typically adds only a short amount of time, since it's an additional verification step rather than a full re-review of the document.
Can a Certified Translation Be Notarized After the Fact?
Yes. If a certified translation was already delivered without notarization and it turns out to be required, it can typically be notarized afterward without redoing the translation itself, since the certification statement is what gets notarized.
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Notarized Translation