In today’s increasingly globalized world, individuals and businesses frequently require official documents that are both accurately translated and legally recognized. Whether you're applying for immigration, enrolling in a foreign university, doing international business, or getting married abroad, you’ll often need documents that are not only translated but also notarized to be accepted.
This article will walk you through the complete process of how to notarize translated documents, what types of documents often require this step, the benefits of combining certified translation with notarization, and how to find reliable providers.
A notarized translation involves two components:
Certified Translation: A professional translator or agency provides an official statement attesting to the accuracy and completeness of the translation.
Notarization: A notary public verifies the identity of the translator (or the certifier) and witnesses the signing of the certification, applying their official stamp to validate it.
This dual step is essential when documents are destined for foreign legal systems, immigration bodies, or consular use.
Visa and Immigration Applications
Immigration departments often ask for marriage, birth, police, and financial documents that are translated and notarized.
Academic Purposes
University applications abroad may require transcripts or diplomas to be officially translated and notarized.
Business and Commercial Use
Contracts, registration certificates, and licenses used in cross-border transactions typically demand notarized translations.
Court Submissions
Legal proceedings may require notarized translated affidavits, testimonies, or other documents.
Look for NAATI-certified (in Australia) or similarly accredited translators who specialize in legal and official documents.
Ensure the translation includes a certificate of accuracy, signed by the translator.
Bring the original document, the translation, and the certificate of translation to a registered notary public.
The notary verifies the identity of the translator or authorized signer and notarizes the certificate, applying their official seal.
Hiring a provider that offers both certified translation and notary services under one roof provides several advantages:
Time-Saving
You don’t need to coordinate between multiple vendors.
Cost-Efficient
Combo services often come with packaged pricing.
Legally Reliable
Reduces chances of rejection by consulates or government offices.
Single-Point Accountability
Any questions or revisions are handled through one entity.
Choose translators who are certified under the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters.
Ensure the notary is legally authorized in your region or state.
Look for proven track records in notarizing translated documents, especially those bound for global use.
Ask about expedited services if your deadline is tight.
Document Type | Common Use Case |
---|---|
Birth Certificate | Immigration, Citizenship |
Marriage Certificate | Visa Application, Name Change |
Academic Transcripts | University Admission, Scholarship Programs |
Legal Affidavits | Court or Immigration Appeals |
Business Contracts | International Agreements |
Police Clearance | Visa, Employment, Licensing |
Power of Attorney | Legal or Property Representation Abroad |
Apostille Requirement: Some countries require an apostille after notarization. Check the destination country's regulations.
Language Pairs: Use specialized translators familiar with both the source and target legal systems.
Format Consistency: Ensure the translated document mirrors the original layout as closely as possible.
The overall cost depends on:
Length and complexity of the document
Language pair
Urgency (standard vs express)
Inclusion of apostille services
Estimated cost range:
Certified Translation – AUD 40 to AUD 100 per page
Notarization Fee – AUD 60 to AUD 150 per document
Combo Offers – AUD 90 to AUD 200+ depending on provider
Notarizing translated documents is a critical step when dealing with cross-border legalities. Whether you're applying for a visa, buying property abroad, or enrolling in school overseas, combining certified translation and notarization ensures that your paperwork stands up to scrutiny anywhere in the world.