Certified Translation Guide

Certified vs. Notarized Translation: The Difference

Certified attests to accuracy; notarized attests to identity. Here is how to tell which one you need.

From $22.95 per page · Certificate of Accuracy included · No hidden fees

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12-hour Priority, 24-hour Standard
Meets USCIS Requirements
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60+ Languages
Human translators only

How Certified Translation Works

  1. 1

    Upload your document

    Send a clear scan or photo of every page, including stamps and the reverse side.

  2. 2

    A human translator translates and certifies it

    A professional translator completes the translation and signs the Certificate of Translation Accuracy.

  3. 3

    Delivered by email as a PDF

    For 1 to 3 pages, choose Economy in 72 business hours, Standard in 24, or Priority in 12. Checkout shows the promise for your page count.

Certified translation from $22.95 per page. A page is up to 250 source words, rounded up per document. See pricing

What We Need From You

  • A clear scan or photo of the full document, all pages, edge to edge
  • The source language and the target language (English by default)
  • The spelling of names as they should appear, matching your passport
  • Your delivery preference: email (included), notarized delivery, or a mailed hard copy

Published

Two different things

A certified translation is about the accuracy of the translation. A notarized translation is about verifying the identity of the person who signed the certification. They answer different questions.

Certified translation

The translator signs a Certificate of Translation Accuracy stating the translation is complete and accurate. This is what most institutions and USCIS require.

Notarized translation

A notary public verifies the identity of the person signing the certificate and witnesses the signature. The notary does not evaluate the translation's accuracy.

Which one do you need?

For USCIS and most universities: certified. For certain courts, consulates, and local agencies that specifically ask: certified plus notarized. When in doubt, ask the receiving institution which they require.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Notarization only verifies who signed the certificate. Accuracy comes from the translator's certification and review.
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Related Resources

Full comparison: certified vs. notarized

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Do I need a notarized translation for USCIS?

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See pricing & add-ons

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Need a Certified Translation?

Upload your document for an instant quote. Every certified translation comes with a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy, delivered by email as a PDF.

Meets USCIS Requirements · 60+ Languages

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Agency requirements can change, so confirm the current rules with the office receiving your documents.