How to Get a Translated Document Ready for Notarization

What Notarization Means for a Translation

It is important to understand what a Notary Public does and does not do. When a translation is notarized, the certification statement is signed before a notary and notarized. The notary verifies the identity of the person signing, not the accuracy or quality of the translation itself. In other words, notarization adds a layer of formal authentication, while the accuracy still comes from the certified translation underneath it.

When You Actually Need a Notarized Translation

Most immigration documents submitted to USCIS only require a certified translation, not notarization. However, you may need a notarized translation for certain court filings, some university admissions, specific business contracts, or documents going to a foreign government office. Because notarization adds time and cost, you should only request it when the receiving institution specifically asks for it. Always confirm the requirement in writing before ordering.

Step-by-Step: Preparing Your Translation for Notarization

1. Confirm with the receiving institution that notarization is actually required, and ask whether certification alone is enough.
2. Order a certified translation from a qualified translation service such as Sure Translation.
3. Make sure the translation includes a complete, signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy.
4. Arrange for the certification to be signed before a Notary Public.
5. Bring valid photo identification for the person signing to the notary appointment.
6. The notary witnesses the signature and adds their stamp and signature to complete the notarization.

Certified vs. Notarized: Know the Difference

A certified translation proves that the content is complete and accurate, and it is what USCIS and most institutions require. A notarized translation takes that certified translation and adds a notary's verification of the signer's identity. Notarization does not make a translation more accurate, it simply adds formal authentication that a few institutions require. Knowing which one you need prevents you from paying for an extra step you do not actually require.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ●Assuming USCIS requires notarization, when it only requires certified translations.
• ●Ordering notarization without confirming the receiving institution actually needs it.
• ●Bringing a translation with no certification statement to the notary, which leaves nothing valid to notarize.
• ●Forgetting valid photo identification for the notary appointment.
• ●Using a machine translation that cannot be properly certified or notarized.

Why Choose Sure Translation

Sure Translation provides certified translations that form the foundation of any notarized translation. Every order includes a stamped Certificate of Translation Accuracy, three rounds of revisions, and a 24-hour turnaround at just $18 per page. As an ATA Corporate Member, we make sure your translation is accurate and complete.

Frequently Asked Questions