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Updated: 01.07.2026 Author: Esra Üstüner Read Time: 5 min
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What Is Notarized Translation and How Is It Done?

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WHAT IS NOTARY APPROVED TRANSLATION AND HOW IS IT DONE? blog cover image

When it comes to international education, work, immigration or business transactions, official documents may need to be translated into different languages. However, translation alone is often not sufficient for such documents. In order for the document to be accepted by official institutions, the accuracy of the translation must be officially approved. This is where notarized translation comes into play.

Notarized translation is a frequently requested application, especially in international applications, official institution transactions and international legal processes. In this process, a document is first translated by a sworn translator, then certified by a notary and becomes official. So, what exactly is a notarized translation, in what cases is it required and how is it done?

What is Notarized Translation?

Notarized translation is the process of notarizing a document after it is translated by a sworn translator. With this process, the notary does not check whether the translation is correct; instead, it verifies that the translator who made the translation is notary registered and sworn. Thus, it is documented that the translation was made by an official translator.

Official institutions, institutions or consulates in foreign countries can often request notarized translations of documents. Thanks to this process, the reliability of the translation of the document is officially recorded.

Notarized translation is often used in official document translations. Therefore, the process is carried out according to certain rules and procedures.

In Which Situations Is Notarized Translation Required?

Notarized translation is especially requested for documents to be submitted to official institutions. Institutions abroad or official application processes often require documents not only to be translated but also to be officially approved.

Some of the most common uses include:

  • Foreign university applications
  • Visa procedures
  • Work permit applications
  • Immigration and citizenship procedures
  • Marriage or divorce proceedings abroad
  • International commercial contracts
  • Court and legal documents

Since the accuracy of documents is of great importance in such transactions, notarized translation is preferred.

How Does the Notarized Translation Process Work?

Notarized translation is a process consisting of certain steps. Carrying out this process correctly is important for the documents to be accepted by official institutions.

  1. Preparing the document for translation: The first step is to prepare the document to be translated. The most frequently translated documents include diplomas, passports, civil registry copies, birth certificates and marriage certificates. The document must be readable and complete; unclear or incomplete documents can cause problems in the translation process.
  2. Translation by a sworn translator: The document is translated by a sworn translator who is proficient in the relevant language. A sworn translator is a person who is registered with a notary and has the authority to translate official documents. In particular, names, date information, document numbers and official terms should be translated carefully; even a small error can cause the document not to be accepted.
  3. Translator's signature and stamp: After the translation is completed, the sworn translator signs and stamps the document. Most official translations also include a brief statement at the end of the translated text in which the translator declares the accuracy of the translation; this statement is a necessary step for notary approval.
  4. Notarization: In the final stage, the document is taken to the notary. The notary checks whether the translator who made the translation is registered in their system and officially approves the translation by adding a confirmation annotation to the document. After this process is completed, the document gains notarized translation status and can be used in official institutions.

If you would like us to manage this entire process on your behalf, you can easily send us your documents through our online order page.

Difference Between Sworn Translation and Notarized Translation

These two concepts are often confused with each other. However, there is an important difference between them.

A sworn translation is a translation made by a translator registered with a notary and bearing the signature of the translator.

A notarized translation is created when this translation is certified by a notary.

CriteriaSworn TranslationNotarized Translation
Certifying authoritySignature and stamp of the sworn translatorSworn translator's signature and notary certification
Official validitySufficient for many institutionsAccepted by all official institutions that require notarization
ProcessTranslation and translator's declarationTranslation, translator's declaration and notary annotation
CostTranslation fee onlyTranslation fee and notary certification fee
TurnaroundUsually fasterExtra time may be needed for the notary procedure

In other words:

  • Every notarized translation is a sworn translation.
  • However, not every sworn translation is notarized.

While some institutions consider only a sworn translation sufficient, some may require notarization.

Things to Consider in Notarized Translation

Some important points need to be taken into consideration during the notarized translation process. These points both ensure that the process progresses quickly and help the documents to be accepted by official institutions without any problems.

  • Choosing the right translator: The person who will translate the document must be an expert in the relevant language. Knowledge of terminology is of great importance, especially in official document translations.
  • Correct transfer of information: Names, spelling of date information and document numbers must be quoted verbatim.
  • Preservation of document format: The order of official documents should be preserved as much as possible. This makes the document easier to understand.
  • Checking institution requirements: Some institutions may also request apostille in addition to notary approval. Therefore, it is useful to learn in advance the requirements of the institution where you will use the document.

Conclusion

Notarized translation is an important process for official documents to be valid in different countries and institutions. The translation made by a sworn translator becomes official by being certified by a notary. Thanks to this process, the reliability and official validity of the translation are guaranteed.

Notarized translation is frequently used in international applications, education procedures, citizenship processes and international commercial activities. Therefore, it is of great importance that the process is carried out correctly and the translation is done by a professional translator. For your notarized translation needs, you can place an order now and safely entrust your documents to us.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Sworn translation is a translation made by a sworn translator. A notarized translation is created when this translation is certified by a notary.

Depending on the length of the document, a notarized translation can usually be prepared on the same day or within a few days.

No. Some institutions consider only sworn translation sufficient. However, notary certification is often requested in official transactions.

It is valid in most cases. However, in some countries, additional apostille may be required.