Certified vs Notarized Translation: What USCIS Actually Requires

Certified vs Notarized: The Key Difference

One of the most common questions we receive is: "Does USCIS require certified or notarized translation?" The answer is certified translation. But what's the difference, and why does it matter?

What Is Certified Translation?

A certified translation includes a signed statement by the translator (or translation company) attesting that:

• The translation is accurate and complete
• The translator is competent in both languages
• The translator takes responsibility for the accuracy

The certification is provided by the person who performed the translation, not by a third party. This is what USCIS requires under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3).

What Is Notarized Translation?

A notarized translation is a translation where a notary public has witnessed someone signing a document. The notary:

• Verifies the identity of the signer
• Witnesses the signature
• Affixes their official seal

Important: The notary does NOT verify the accuracy of the translation. A notary typically doesn't speak the foreign language and cannot attest to translation quality.

Side-by-Side Comparison

What Does USCIS Actually Require?

USCIS requires certified translation only. According to USCIS regulations, a proper translation must include:

1. A complete English translation of the foreign document
2. A certification statement signed by the translator
3. The translator's statement of competency
4. The translator's name, address, and signature
5. The date of certification

Notarization is not required by USCIS for document translations.

When Might You Need Notarization?

While USCIS doesn't require notarized translations, some situations may call for it:

• Court proceedings - Some courts prefer notarized documents
• Foreign governments - Certain countries require notarization
• Apostille requirements - For international document legalization
• School admissions - Some universities request notarization

Can I Get Both Certified AND Notarized?

Yes, you can have a translation that is both certified by the translator and notarized by a notary public. This provides an extra layer of authentication, though it's usually unnecessary for USCIS purposes.

If you need both, the process is:

1. Get the certified translation from a professional translator
2. Take the certified translation to a notary public
3. The translator (or company representative) signs in front of the notary
4. The notary witnesses the signature and affixes their seal

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Thinking notarization means accuracy - A notary cannot verify translation quality; they only witness signatures.
• Getting only notarization - A notarized but uncertified translation will not be accepted by USCIS.
• Paying extra unnecessarily - Most USCIS applications only need certified translation, not notarization.
• Using unqualified translators - Even with notarization, a poor translation can be rejected.

Get Proper USCIS Certified Translation

At Lingual360, all our translations are properly certified for USCIS. Each translation includes:

• Complete certified translation of your document
• Official certification statement
• Translator affidavit with qualifications
• 100% USCIS acceptance guarantee

We can also provide notarization services if your situation requires it, though most USCIS applications do not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does USCIS prefer notarized translations?

No. USCIS specifically requires certified translation, not notarized. Adding notarization doesn't improve your application's chances of acceptance.

Is ATA certification the same as certified translation?

No. ATA (American Translators Association) certification refers to a translator's professional credentials. A "certified translation" for USCIS simply requires the translator's attestation of accuracy, regardless of ATA membership.

Can a bilingual friend provide certified translation?

Technically yes, but it's not recommended. While USCIS allows non-professional translators, errors by untrained translators can lead to delays or rejection. Professional certified translation services ensure accuracy and acceptance.

How much does certified translation cost vs notarized?

Certified translation typically costs $15-30 per page. Adding notarization costs an additional $10-25 for the notary fee. Since USCIS only requires certification, most applicants can save by skipping notarization.