Certified Translation vs. Notarization: What Is the Difference?

Certified translation and notarization are not the same thing.

A certified translation means the translator provides a signed statement confirming that the translation is complete and accurate, and that the translator is competent to translate the document into English.

A notarization means a notary public verifies the identity of the person signing a document. A notary does not certify that a translation is accurate unless they are also the translator and are legally signing in that separate role.

For immigration matters, people often confuse these two terms. In many cases, what is needed is a certified translation, not notarization. The key requirement is usually that the foreign-language document is translated fully into English and accompanied by the translator’s certification.

Notarization may be requested in some situations, but it is a separate step and does not replace the need for an accurate certified translation.

At Wabi Immigration Translations, we provide certified French and Lingala to English translation support for immigration attorneys, law offices, nonprofits, and legal services organizations.

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