Notarization for Certified
Translations Explained
Not sure what notarizations are or if you need one for your certified translations? This quick guide breaks down everything you need to know about these types of translations and their uses.
Notarization for Certified Translations Explained
Overview of Notarization
Notarization is a process where a notary public is a witness to an individual signing a document. A notary public is a government official and validates the identity of the signer. They also make sure the signer is aware of what they’re signing.
The notary public also records the signature so that it is verifiable if there are any concerns about the notarization. A notary public’s signature carries weight and lets others know about the authenticity of the signer and the document. The purpose of this process is to prevent fraud.
The notary public and the signer must be physically present before the government official can notarize the signature.
Certified Translation Notarization
Here’s what happens when you ask for a certified translation notarization:
- 1 A professional translator will translate the provided document from its original language to your preferred language.
- 2 The translator will check the translation’s accuracy and meet the notary public.
- 3 The professional translator will sign the certificate before the notary public.
- 4 The notary public will verify the translator’s identity.
- 5 If everything is okay, the notary public will stamp and sign the translated document.
Essentially, the notary is only responsible for verifying the translator’s identity. Their role is strictly limited
to identity verification, not content validation. They cannot translate and notarize your document.
Once you get your translated document notarized, it is legally valid. You can use it without any issues in
several states in the US. Several international countries, including Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, ask
individuals for notarized certified translations.
Digital vs Physical Notarization
The requirements for translated documents vary depending on where you are and who is asking for the paperwork. In
some regions and organizations, you need to provide a physical notarization. This includes the original version with the
certificate of translation and the necessary signatures and seals.
The digital notarization contains a digital copy of the translated document, translation certificate, signatures, and seals.
Rapid Translate provides both digital and physical notarization copies based on your requirements.
We send the digital copies in a non-editable format to preserve the authenticity of the translated files. We also have
domestic and international shipping for physical notarization copies. Select what you need when placing your order, and
we’ll send it to your email or doorstep.
How Notarization Works With Rapid Translate
At Rapid Translate, we follow the standard procedure for notarizing documents. We’ll assign a professional translator who is fluent in your document’s original and target language. They will analyze your file and translate it word-for-word.
We have a robust review process during which the translation goes through multiple checks for accuracy and quality. However, you’ll receive a copy before our professional translator certifies the translated document. You can check the translation and layout to make sure they meet your expectations.
Once you approve, our translator will create the final version of the translated document on our letterhead. They will also provide a certificate of translation to highlight the translation’s accuracy.
We’ll send the final translated document to our notary public and sign the file before them. The notary then validates our identity and signs and stamps the translated record.
Use Cases for Notarization for Certified
Translations
You need to notarize the certified translations of your documents in several situations. For instance, if you’re
sending your official documents to another country, it’s good practice to translate and notarize the file.
You need a notarized translation if you’re applying for a US passport. This is the case for obtaining your driver’s
license in a few states in the US. You may also need notarized translation services for local courts in some states.
However, the rules regarding notarization can change depending on the country and its policies. It’s always best to
check the current translation requirements rules before translating your documents.
If you’re looking for notarization translation services with a short turnaround time, contact Rapid Translate today!
Our customer support team is experienced in supporting your translation needs.
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