Certified vs. Notarized Translation
Certified vs. notarized translation comes down to who signs and what that signature proves. A certified translation carries the translator's signed statement that it is accurate. A notarized translation adds a notary public, who confirms the identity of the person signing that statement.
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The difference at a glance
| Certified | Notarized | |
|---|---|---|
| Who signs | The translator or translation company | The same signer, in front of a notary |
| What it proves | The translation is complete and accurate | The identity of the person who signed |
| Checks the translation | Yes, the translator vouches for it | No, the notary does not review it |
| USCIS | Required | Not required |
| At ImmiTranslate | $25 per page | Adds $20 per order |
What a notary checks
A notary public confirms the identity of the person signing the certificate and records the signature. The notary does not read the translation or judge its accuracy. That is why every notarized translation starts as a certified one: the accuracy statement comes from the translator.
Who asks for which
- USCIS: a certified translation. Notarization is not required.
- Immigration courts: a certificate of translation with each non-English document.
- Some state agencies, courts, schools and foreign consulates: a notarized translation.
- Documents going abroad: sometimes an apostille as well, which certifies the notary's signature. Ask the recipient first.
If the instructions only say “official” or “certified”, a certified translation is usually what they mean. When in doubt, ask before you order.
Certified vs. notarized translation for USCIS
USCIS needs a full English translation and the translator's signed certification of competence and accuracy. A notary stamp adds nothing to that review. Add notarization only if another agency or your attorney asks for it.
Ordering either one
Every certified translation from ImmiTranslate includes a signed and stamped certificate of accuracy for $25 per page of up to 250 words. For a notarized translation, choose Certified & Notarized at checkout. We arrange the notarization for $20 per order, with no visit to a notary, and the notarization is valid in all 50 states. You receive a PDF, and a mailed wet-ink copy is available.
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