subject: Revealing the Difference between Certified and Notarized Translation [print this page] Revealing the Difference between Certified and Notarized Translation
Certified translations are simply a verbatim translation of your original document. Certified translations are legal documents that are accepted by governments and government agencies worldwide. They are accepted by universities, banking institutions and courts. You simply take your documents to a certified translator and he or she will turn your documents into legal records.
Certified Translation is needed most often for immigrations, university applications, job applications and other legal dealings. It can be very important that documents be certified translations rather than simply notarized translations.
Notarized translations on the other hand, are governed by local lawsand are not accepted by governments worldwide. These laws are different in each country. In a non-certified translation, which is what a notarized translation is, the translator is sometimes allowed to give the text they are notarizing a personal style and tone, which can make the document more appropriate for its target audience.
Notarized translations must usually be an exact translation of the source and they always have to include a clause from the certifier along with the certifier's round seal. This seal is one which only a Notarized Court translator may use, and it must be accompanied by the translator's signature in order to be accepted by any courts or authoritiesbut again, these are not necessarily accepted by any and all governments, courts or authorities.
It is important to note that most governments do not ask that documents be notarized; only certified. So, when looking at the differences between the two, it may be more beneficial to spend the money on certified translation rather than notarized translation or both.
In order to get a notarized translation, you must find a notary and take your documents to him or her and be present in order for the notary to swear they were in your presence. With certified translations, you can often scan and send your documents to the certifier, and everything can be done via email. You can also take your documents to a certified translator. All of these services can be found through a simple online search. Make sure your translator is actually certified before spending your money, though, and you can normally find this information on their website.
Certified translations are usually a better, safer, route, as they are accepted worldwide and you will not find out too late that your document will not be honored.
