- https://certifiedtranslationindia.com/blogs/news/when-do-you-need-the-certified-translation-of-your-legal-documents
- https://linguidoor.com/what-is-the-difference-between-certified-translation-and-notarized-translation/
- https://translayte.com/blog/notarized-translations
- https://pecattestation.com/blog/why-is-certified-translation-needed
- https://www.tridindia.com/translation/notarized-translation-services
- https://certifiedtranslationindia.com/pages/pricing
Summary
A notary translation or notarized translation is a document that has been translated into another language and then notarized by a notary public. The notary does not verify the accuracy of the translation itself. Instead, the notary confirms the identity of the translator and that the translator has sworn a declaration stating the translation is true and complete. Notary translations are often required for immigration, visa processing, court documents, academic records and government applications, depending on authority rules.
If you’re dealing with immigration, study-abroad applications, or international legal work, you may be asked for verified translations, and this is where understanding what is notary translation matters. A simple translation isn’t enough for governments or courts because they need proof of accuracy. In notary translation, a professional translator signs a declaration confirming the translation is correct, and a Notary Public authenticates it. This extra verification makes the translated document genuine, reliable, and valid for official use.
What Is Notary Translation?
A notary translation is a verified translation of an official document, such as a birth certificate or degree, that a Notary Public has attested. It involves a professional translator signing a certificate of accuracy in the presence of a notary, who then stamps the document to verify the signer's identity. This process ensures the authenticity of the translator’s signature, making the document legally valid for official use in courts, government agencies, and visa applications.
When Do You Need Notarised Translation?
A notarized translation is typically required whenever a translated document must carry legal weight or is submitted to a governmental or judicial authority. [1]
- Consulates and embassies often require notarized translations of personal documents to process visa, residency, or citizenship applications.
- Courts require all foreign-language evidence and affidavits to be notarized to ensure they are admissible as accurate records.
- Many international universities demand notarized translations of degrees and mark sheets to verify educational credentials during admission.
- Essential records used for international purposes (like marriage abroad or claiming inheritance) almost always require this level of verification.
- Corporate entities involved in international trade need notarized translation services for contracts, articles of incorporation, and memorandums.
- Deeds, titles, and sale agreements must be notarized when used in cross-border real estate dealings.
- Patients seeking treatment abroad often need verified translations of their medical history and reports.
- Companies hiring expatriates often require notarized translations of experience letters and background checks for compliance.
Notarized Translation vs. Certified Translation
Understanding the distinction between a notarized and a certified translation is important, as submitting the wrong type can result in rejection by authorities. For a broader context on legal differences, see notary vs lawyer. [2]
| Aspect | Notarized Translation | Certified Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Involvement | Mandatory: The translator must sign in the presence of a Notary Public who seals the document. | None: The translator or agency simply signs a statement of accuracy without a notary witness. |
| Legal Validity | High: Verifies the signer's identity, making it acceptable for court and government use. | Standard: Verifies the accuracy of the content but not the signer's legal identity. |
| Translator Certification | Required as part of the affidavit sworn before the Notary. | Required as a "Certificate of Accuracy" signed by the translator. |
| Use Cases | Court filings, immigration papers, government submissions, Apostille procedures. | University admissions (some), medical records, and general business documents. |
Components of a Notarised Translation
To ensure a document meets the strict legal standards of a notary translation, it must contain specific, non-negotiable elements that bind the translation to the original source. [3]
- Original document: A clear copy of the original source document (in the foreign language) must be included to allow authorities to compare formats.
- Translated document: The complete, word-for-word translation in the target language, maintaining the original layout and formatting.
- Translator's certification statement: A formal declaration signed by the translator attesting that the translation is a true, accurate, and complete representation of the original.
- Translator's credentials and signature: The translator’s full name, contact details, and qualifications, along with their physical signature.
- Notary's certificate (acknowledgment or jurat): The specific legal wording (jurat) where the Notary confirms they witnessed the signing and administered the oath.
- Notary's signature and official seal: The Notary Public affixes their official stamp and signature, which validates the document for legal use.
- Date of notarization: The exact date on which the notary witnessed the signature, establishing the timeline of validity.
- Notary commission details: The expiration date of the Notary’s commission and their registration number, proving they are currently authorized to act.
Documents Commonly Requiring Notarised Translation
Certain important categories of official documents require notarized translation.
- Birth Certificate
- Marriage Certificate
- Divorce Decree
- Academic Transcripts & Degrees
- Legal Contracts
- Power of Attorney
- Court Orders
- Medical Records
- Police Clearance Certificate
- Property Deeds
- Adoption Papers
- Immigration Documents
- Business Incorporation Papers
These documents are fundamental to legal identity and status, meaning any error or lack of verification can have serious consequences, hence the strict requirement for notary-certified translation. [4]
NOTARY TRANSLATION CERTIFICATE FORMAT
I, [Translator’s Full Name], residing at [Address], hereby certify that I am competent in both the [Source Language] and [Target Language], and that the following document:
Document Title: [Insert Original Document Title]
Date of Original Document: [Insert Date]
Document Number / ID: [Insert if applicable]
has been translated by me accurately and completely from the [Source Language] into [Target Language] to the best of my knowledge and ability.
Translation:
[Insert full translated text here]
I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.
Date of Translation: [Insert Date]
Translator’s Signature: ___________________________
Notary Public Section:
State of ________________
County of ______________
Subscribed and sworn before me this ____ day of __________, 20.
Notary Signature: ___________________________
Notary Seal / Stamp: _______________________
How Does Notary Translation Work?
The process of translating and notarizing a document involves a collaborative effort between a professional linguist and a legal official. It is not something you can do yourself. [5]
Step 1: Document Translation
A certified translator or a professional translation agency first translates the document accurately. They ensure that every word, including seals, stamps, and signatures on the original, is represented in the target language.
Step 2: Translator’s Declaration
The translator or an authorized representative creates a formal statement (affidavit) declaring that the translation is complete and accurate. They do not sign this yet; they must wait until they are in the Notary's presence.
Step 3: Notary Attestation
The translator takes the documents to a Notary Public. The Notary verifies the translator's identity (using government ID) and witnesses them signing the declaration. The Notary then stamps and signs the document, completing the notarized translation. For more on who can perform this, see who can notarize an affidavit.
Cost and Validity of Notarised Translation Services
In India, the cost of notarized translation services generally ranges from ₹600 to ₹1,500 per page for common languages such as English, Hindi, and major regional languages. For foreign languages like German, French, or Japanese, the price typically increases to ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per page due to limited certified translators. A notarized translation is legally valid when a licensed translator certifies the accuracy of the translation and a Notary Public attests the translator’s signature and declaration. It is widely accepted by banks, courts, universities, embassies, and government offices, although some cases may also require an apostille or embassy attestation for international use. [6]
How NoBroker Can Help with Notary Services?
Navigating the requirements for notary translation and ensuring your documents meet legal standards can be complex. NoBroker simplifies this by offering comprehensive legal services. We connect you with experienced legal professionals who can assist with the notarization aspect of your documents. Whether you need guidance on the duties of a notary public or help understanding the difference between a notary and registration, NoBroker ensures your paperwork is handled correctly. While we focus on the legal verification side, we can guide you on the correct process to ensure your translated documents are legally valid and ready for submission to any authority.