Two terms come up constantly in translation work: certified and notarized. They are not the same. Understanding the difference saves filing problems, immigration delays, and embassy rejections.
Certified translation
A certified translation is a written translation accompanied by a signed statement from the translator (a Certificate of Accuracy) attesting that the translation is a true and complete rendering of the source document, to the best of the translator's knowledge and ability. The certificate typically identifies the translator, the languages involved, the document translated, and the date.
A certified translation is about the accuracy of the translation. The translator is staking their professional reputation on the rendering being correct. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) accepts certified translations for immigration filings; courts accept them for filings that involve documents in another language; many universities accept them for foreign academic transcripts.
Notarized translation
A notarized translation is a translation accompanied by a notary public's acknowledgment of the translator's signature on the Certificate of Accuracy. The notary is not attesting to the accuracy of the translation. The notary is attesting that the person who signed the certificate is who they say they are.
Notarization adds a verification layer that the translator was identified by an officer of the state. It does not add a separate guarantee of translation accuracy.
Which one you need
- USCIS filings: a certified translation is sufficient. Notarization is not required under USCIS rules (see 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3)).
- U.S. state courts: requirements vary; many accept certified, some require notarized, and California family law sometimes requires sworn translation.
- Foreign embassies and consulates: many require notarization and some require an apostille from the Secretary of State, which is a separate step.
- Vital records and government filings: depends on the receiving agency. Confirm before translation.
- Academic admissions: usually certified is sufficient.
Apostille
For translations being submitted to foreign authorities in countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention, a notarized translation can be apostilled by the Secretary of State of the state where the notary is commissioned. The apostille is a standardized certificate that authenticates the notary's signature for international use. AMS clients submitting translations to foreign embassies or for immigration matters abroad often need apostille service in addition to notarization; we can advise on which steps apply to your filing.
Practical advice
Before ordering a translation, ask the receiving institution exactly what they require: certified, notarized, sworn, or apostilled. The cost and turnaround time vary with each layer. Getting it right the first time avoids the most common cause of translation rework.