When it comes to official documentation, accuracy and verification are everything. In many legal, academic, or international situations, not only must a document be translated into another language—it also needs to be notarized.
But what exactly does it mean to notarize a translated document? Is notarization always necessary? And how can you do it correctly to avoid delays or rejection?
At USCIS Translators, we specialize in certified translations for immigration and legal use. While notarization is not required by USCIS, we understand that many clients still need this service for other agencies, schools, or international procedures. Here’s everything you need to know about notarizing a translated document.
What Does It Mean to Notarize a Translation?
Notarizing a translated document means a notary public witnesses the translator’s signature on a Certificate of Accuracy—a document stating that the translation is complete and accurate to the best of the translator’s knowledge.
Important: The notary does not validate the accuracy of the translation itself. Their job is to verify the identity of the person signing the certification.
When Do You Need a Notarized Translation?
You might be required to notarize a translation if the document is being submitted to:
- Foreign embassies or consulates
- Certain U.S. state courts
- Some universities or credential evaluation services
- International adoption agencies
- Government departments outside of USCIS
- Some private institutions with strict document handling policies
For most USCIS immigration applications, notarization is not required—only a certified translation is needed. For these cases, USCIS Translators provides fully compliant translations that include a signed Certificate of Accuracy but without notarization.
Steps to Notarize a Translated Document
If your receiving institution or agency specifically requests notarization, here’s how the process typically works:
1. Hire a Professional Translator
Start by getting your document translated by a reputable service. Avoid free tools or uncertified individuals, as poor translation quality can lead to rejection. At USCIS Translators, we offer professional, human translations backed by industry standards.
2. Obtain a Certificate of Accuracy
The translator must prepare and sign a Certificate of Accuracy, which confirms that:
- The translation is complete and true to the original
- The translator is competent in both source and target languages
- The statement includes the translator’s name, signature, and date
We provide this certificate with every translated document we deliver.
3. Visit a Notary Public
The translator must appear in person (or virtually, in some states) before a licensed notary public to sign the certificate. The notary will verify the translator’s ID, witness the signature, and apply a notary seal or stamp.
4. Submit Your Notarized Translation
Now the notarized translation package—which includes the original translation, Certificate of Accuracy, and the notary seal—is ready to be submitted wherever required.
Can You Notarize a Translated Document Online?
Yes! Many U.S. states now allow remote online notarization (RON). This process allows the translator to appear before a notary via video call, making it faster and more accessible.
At USCIS Translators, if your project requires notarization, we can help coordinate this through certified notaries in your area or guide you through virtual notarization options.
Certified vs. Notarized: Know the Difference
Let’s clear up a common misconception: Certified and notarized translations are not the same.
| Type | Purpose | Required for USCIS |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Translation | Translator certifies accuracy | âś… Yes |
| Notarized Translation | Notary verifies translator identity | ❌ Not required |
If you’re submitting documents to USCIS, you only need a certified translation. We specialize in this service and offer a 100% acceptance guarantee for all USCIS submissions.
Why Choose USCIS Translators?
Even if your document needs notarization, it starts with a high-quality certified translation—and that’s where we come in.
✔️ Certified human translations
✔️ Certificate of Accuracy included
✔️ USCIS compliance guaranteed
✔️ Guidance on notarization process
✔️ Fast turnaround and secure online ordering
Whether you need a translation for USCIS, court, school, or an international process, USCIS Translators ensures your documents meet the right standards.
Final Thoughts
Notarizing a translated document isn’t complicated—but doing it right is crucial. From accurate translation to proper certification and notarization, each step plays a role in how your documents are received.
Trust USCIS Translators to guide you through the process with speed, accuracy, and professionalism. We’re here to make sure your documents are not just translated—but accepted.