Certified Translation vs. Notarized Translation - What's the Difference?
Dealing with documents written in a foreign unfamiliar language requires translation to be checked properly to ensure it is legally acceptable and accurate. This is especially true for official documents such as birth certificates, academic documents or legal contracts. However, with complicated terms such as "certified translation" and "notarized translation", it is easy to get confused, especially when you have no idea about what they are referring to. Although the function of both translations is to ensure reliability, they have different meanings, have different legal implications and serve different purposes.
This blog will explain what is meant by certified and notarized translations, how they are different from one another, their uses, and how to choose the right option based on your needs.
What is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation is an officially translated document. The translated document comes along with a signed official statement from the translator or the translation agency, called the certificate of accuracy. This certificate attests to the accuracy of the translation and guarantees that all original information is included, and represented with complete accuracy, as per the translator's knowledge and ability. People usually need certified translations when dealing with immigration, the courts, applying for higher education abroad or official government documentation.
The declaration of accuracy by the translator or the agency provides authenticity to the translated document making it easy for the institutions or authorities to accept the document as legitimate. The translator or translation agency also accepts the responsibility for the quality of the translation through the certificate of accuracy.
A certified translation typically includes:
- The translated text
- A version of the original document
- A statement of accuracy certified by the translator
- Contact details and credentials of the translator or agency
Uses of a Certified Translation
Certified translations will be required when submitting the documents to official institutions that have to verify the accuracy of the translation. Some common examples of certified translation uses are as follows;
- Immigration documents
- Academic transcripts and diplomas securing admission to universities or schools abroad
- Medical records for healthcare or insurance claims.
- Legal documents such as contracts, court documents and affidavits may need translation for international use.
- Birth, marriage, and other similar documents may need certified translation for visa, passport, residency applications, etc.
What is a Notarized Translation?
BNotarized translations have one added step after the original translation is certified. A notary makes sure the translator or representative of the translation agency is who they claim to be and makes certain that they signed the document voluntarily.
It adds an extra source of trust to the process. Notarized translation is typically necessary for uses such as immigration, court cases or official government processes where the concerned authorities need proof that the certification is being signed properly.
Important Note: A notary public is not responsible for verifying the accuracy of the translation. They only authenticate the signing authorities' identity.
A notarized translation usually includes;
- A certification of accuracy signed in the presence of a notary
- A notary seal or stamp and signature
Uses of Notarized Translation
Notarized translations are generally needed for the following documents;
- Educational documents required for admission to schools and universities abroad
- Corporate or business-related documents
- Power of attorney
- Legal court documents and transcripts
- Documents needed by embassies and consulates
- Documents related to adopting or purchasing properties worldwide
Note: In some countries or institutions, official recognition of translations depends on getting them notarized.
Major Differences Between Certified and Notarized Translations
Here is a detailed table directly comparing the different aspects of both certified and notarized translations for an easy and clear understanding of the two distinct
| Characteristics | Certified Translation | Notarized Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | It is used to certify the accuracy and completeness of the translation. | It is an additional step to the certified translation used to certify the identity of the translator. |
| Service Provider | A professional translator or a translation agency. | A notary official along with a translator/representative or a translation agency. |
| Verification of Translation | Yes. In certified translation, the statement of accuracy is intended to verify the accuracy and legitimacy of the translation. | Since it is an additional step to the certified translation process, it mainly focuses on verifying the identity of the signing authority. |
| Legal Weightage | A certified translation is recognised by a majority of government institutions. | Legal and international entities require notarized translation. Might not always be necessary, unless requested specifically. |
| Common Use | Medical, Legal, Academic documents and so on. | Court, embassy, property documents, etc. |
Which is Better for You?
Neither is "better" because there is no direct justified comparison between a certified and a notarized translation. Both of these translations are acceptable and are used in different scenarios depending on the institution or the specific government agency that has requested the translation. For example;
- When you file your visa application, turn in papers to immigration officials or send your documents to a foreign university, it's usually required that you use only certified translations.
- You may need to have translations notarized if your documents are meant for use outside your own country, in a court trial, cases of property or other legal issues.
If you are in doubt regarding which translation you need, it is advisable to check the guidelines provided by the specific requesting authority. Being sure about the translation needs with help candidates avoid delays and rejections.
Conclusion
Certified and notarized translation services are important for dealing with documents that are in a foreign language or a regional language to be used abroad. Both these translation services play their specified roles, a certified translation guarantees the accuracy of the translated work, whereas a notarized translation certifies the fact that the translation was done legally.
Knowing the difference between the two can help you pick the right service and be sure your documents will go through without a problem. When choosing between the two, keep in mind why you need translation, what your institution requires and the legal context in which the documents will be used.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a translation be both certified and notarized?
Yes. A lot of educational and legal entities overseas require a translation that is both, certified and contains a notary seal.
2. Are certified translations accepted internationally?
Translations with certificates of accuracy are accepted in most countries. However, certain countries may require additional verification in the form of notarized translations.
3. How long does it take to get a certified or notarized translation?
Most translation service providers offer certified translation within 24-48 hours after the initial contact. Notarized translations may require more time due to the additional step of notarization.
4. Who can provide a certified translation?
A licensed professional translator, a translation company such as Superb Translations, with required credentials can provide certified translation services.
