When preparing documents for immigration, education, or international legal use, one question confuses applicants more than any other: Do I need notary translation services or certified translation?
The difference is critical. For immigration with USCIS, only certified translations are required. However, in other contexts — such as foreign universities, courts, or business contracts — you may also need notarization or even an apostille. Misunderstanding these distinctions can cause costly delays or outright rejection of your application.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we guide clients through these complexities every day. Whether you need USCIS-approved certified translations or notarization for international use, our team ensures that your documents are accurate, compliant, and recognized.
What Are Notary Translation Services?
Notary translation services involve having a translation verified by a notary public. The notary does not check the accuracy of the translation itself but verifies the identity of the translator who signed the certification.
In simple terms:
- The translator provides a certification of accuracy.
- A notary public witnesses the translator’s signature.
- The notarized certification confirms the authenticity of the translator, not the translation.
What Is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation is what USCIS requires. It includes:
- A complete English translation of the document.
- A certification statement signed by the translator affirming accuracy and completeness.
- The translator’s name, signature, and date.
Unlike notary translation services, certified translations do not require a notary. They are accepted by USCIS and many other U.S. agencies.
Key Differences Between Notary and Certified Translations
|
Feature |
Certified Translation |
Notary Translation Services |
|
USCIS Acceptance |
Required and accepted |
Not required |
|
Verification |
Translator affirms accuracy |
Notary verifies translator’s identity |
|
Use Cases |
Immigration, USCIS, legal compliance |
Universities, courts, international use |
|
Speed |
Faster, less formal |
May take longer due to notary appointment |
|
Cost |
Lower, translation only |
Higher, includes notary fees |
Why USCIS Requires Certified, Not Notarized Translations
USCIS only requires certified translations. They do not ask for notarization because the certification itself holds the translator accountable for accuracy.
Applicants often waste time and money seeking notarized translations when a standard certified translation would have sufficed. Working with professionals ensures you get exactly what USCIS requires — no more, no less.
When Notary Translation Services Are Needed
While USCIS doesn’t require notarization, there are situations where notary translation services are necessary:
- Foreign Universities: Some schools abroad request notarized translations of diplomas and transcripts.
- Court Filings: Certain state courts require notarized translations of evidence or legal records.
- International Business: Contracts, patents, or agreements may need notarized translations to be recognized overseas.
- Consulates and Embassies: Non-Hague Convention countries often request notarized and legalized translations.
Apostille and Notary Translations
If your documents must be recognized internationally, notarization may be followed by an apostille. An apostille certifies the notary’s authority and makes the document legally valid in member countries of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Our International Document Translation & Apostille services provide this full chain: translation → notarization → apostille.
Benefits of Professional Notary Translation Services
- Legal Validity Abroad: Ensures documents are accepted in foreign jurisdictions.
- Added Security: Verifies the translator’s identity and signature.
- Compliance With Special Requirements: Meets demands of courts, universities, or foreign consulates.
Case Studies
Case 1: University Abroad
A student from Mexico applying to a German university submitted only a certified translation of their transcripts. The school rejected the application because notarization was required. After using notary translation services, the documents were accepted.
Case 2: Immigration Applicant
A couple applying for a spousal green card wasted money on notarized translations of their marriage certificate. USCIS accepted certified translations only. Their case was delayed unnecessarily due to confusion about requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between certified and notarized translations?
Certified translations include a statement from the translator affirming accuracy and completeness. Notarized translations involve a notary verifying the translator’s signature, not the accuracy of the translation. USCIS accepts certified translations only.
Do I need notarized translations for USCIS?
No. USCIS does not require notarization. Certified translations alone meet USCIS standards. Notarization is only needed for other purposes, such as universities, courts, or international recognition.
Why would someone need notary translation services?
Notary translation services are often required by state courts, foreign schools, or international agencies. They provide extra assurance that the translator’s identity has been verified.
What is an apostille, and how does it relate to notarized translations?
An apostille is an international certification that makes notarized documents legally valid in Hague Convention countries. If you need your translation recognized abroad, you may need notarization followed by an apostille.
Are notary translation services more expensive?
Yes, because they involve both translation and notary fees. Certified translations are generally more affordable and sufficient for USCIS.
How long does notarized translation take?
It typically takes longer than certified translations because it requires scheduling with a notary. The process may range from 2–5 business days, depending on availability.
Can any translator provide a notarized translation?
No. The translator must provide a certification, and a notary public must witness the signature. Not every translator is familiar with this process, which is why professional services are recommended.
Which documents commonly require notarized translations?
Court records, academic transcripts, business contracts, patents, and documents for use in non-Hague Convention countries often require notarized translations.
Can machine translations be notarized?
No. Machine translations are not acceptable for notarization or certification. Only human translators can provide legally valid translations.
Do all countries accept notarized translations?
No. Some countries require consular legalization instead of notarization. Others require apostille certification. Requirements vary widely depending on jurisdiction.
Can a bilingual friend provide notarized translations?
Only if they provide a certification letter and appear before a notary public. However, accuracy and formatting may still be questioned. Professional notary translation services are safer.
What happens if I submit notarized translations when only certified ones are required?
USCIS will still accept the documents, since notarized translations also include certification. However, you may have spent unnecessary time and money.
Why should I choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan?
Because we offer both certified and notarized translations, along with apostille services. We guide clients on exactly what they need for USCIS, courts, universities, or international agencies, ensuring no wasted effort.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between notary translation services and certified translations is essential for avoiding delays and unnecessary costs. For USCIS, certified translations are sufficient. For international use, courts, or universities, notarization or apostille may be required.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide all three: certified translations, notarization, and apostille services. Whatever your case requires, we ensure compliance, accuracy, and peace of mind.
