Notaries authenticate translations by verifying the translator’s identity. Since there is a growing need for translation services globally, people often wonder if these officials can translate certain documents. But can a notary translate a birth certificate?
When people need urgent translations, they may think of any person they know who understands the two languages. Unlike non-official translations, translations of official documents like birth certificates must follow specific rules.
Read this article to learn if these officials can work on your birth certificates.
Table of Contents
The Roles of a Notary in Translation
Notaries play important roles in translation. They have significant input in legal and official translations when notarization is needed. However, many people are unsure about their roles in translation services.
The notary public is a legally appointed official who authenticates translations, ensuring they comply with the relevant legal requirements. Their input makes translated documents more credible and fit for legal and official purposes.
The notary ensures that the translation meets legal standards like formatting and certification. While these officials do not verify the accuracy of translations, they affix their stamps to confirm their authenticity.
In the U.S., the notary does not play a major role in reviewing the document. Instead, they serve as impartial witnesses to the document’s signing. This means they witness the translator’s certification, which validates the document’s accuracy and completeness.
The notary also ensures that the translator is who they claim to be. That is why translators offer identification documents during notarization. Since the notary witnesses the signing of the certification statement, they confirm that the signee is indeed the translator. This helps to prevent document fraud and protect personal rights and property, especially regarding documents like birth certificates. That is why some government agencies and non-governmental institutions often insist on notarized translations.
Can a Notary Translate a Birth Certificate in 2024?
No, a notary cannot translate a birth certificate. They can only give their approval seal after a professional translator creates a different language version of the document. Notaries are only authorized to administer oaths and verify signatures.
However, translating birth certificates requires expertise in different language combinations and the necessary certifications. For example, only certified translators fluent in the source and target languages can render birth certificates in the U.S.
Receiving organizations and agencies like the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) mandate these translations from certified professionals. Since birth certificate translations are important for the immigration process and other official purposes, they must come from accredited professionals.
In this case, the translator must offer certification proving the translation is accurate and complete. They must also provide their signature, contact information, and professional credentials.
However, notaries can only authenticate the translator’s certification. This means that they can confirm the translator’s identity and that the translator has attested to the document’s accuracy. Notaries ensure the authenticity of the signature, not the translation.
If a notary is also a certified translator, they can translate birth certificates in some places. But, they can only translate these documents if they do not notarize them.
Who Can Translate a Birth Certificate?
An accredited and experienced translator can translate a birth certificate for legal and official purposes. For instance, if you’re translating this document for immigration applications, work with a certified translator.
These accredited translators typically have linguistic expertise and are familiar with the original document’s formatting and terminology. Since the requirements vary by country, you must determine and adhere to the exact stipulations.
When getting translations for your application to the USCIS, opt for someone who understands the government agency’s requirements. While certified professionals verify their proficiency, they also have different fields of specialties. Hence, work with a translator whose specialty aligns with your needs.
Notary Public vs. Certified Translator
While certified translators and notaries play important roles in official translation, they perform different functions. A notary public authenticates signatures to prevent fraud and ensure that the correct parties sign the documents.
Conversely, a certified translator creates different language versions of documents alongside certification statements. This professional ensures that the transition is accurate. Still, they collaborate in their roles to create useful results that help your application.
How To Hire Translators for Your Birth Certificate
There are multiple ways to get translators for your birth certificate. Hiring an accredited translation company is the most popular option. Yet, you can still hire individual or freelance translators for your project.
Here are the three top ways to hire professionals for your birth certificates:
- Hire a translation company: Translation companies offer reliable options for people to get certified translations of birth certificates. These agencies work with professionals, covering different language combinations. Search online for highly-rated companies or go for local translation companies if you’re looking for reliable services.
- Work with independent translators: Some translators work independently. This means that they do not work with agencies. They can translate legal documents like birth certificates if they have the required certifications. The American Translators Association (ATA) directory lets you connect directly with certified translators.
- Hire freelance translators: Freelancer platforms offer valid options for people looking for translators to work on their birth certificates. For many, freelancers are preferable because those platforms allow proper vetting. You can browse the translator’s live reviews and samples and examine their qualifications.
Overall, look for expertise and experience when hiring a translator for your birth certificate. Since the quality of these documents depends heavily on your application, ensure you only work with reliable professionals.
FAQ
Now that we’ve clarified, “Can a notary public translate a birth certificate?” let’s address commonly asked questions!
Do translated birth certificates need to be notarized for USCIS?
The USCIS does not require notarization for translated birth certificates. These documents must only come with certification statements showing that they are accurate and complete. Certification typically includes the translator’s name, signature, and statement of qualifications.
Can you translate your own birth certificate?
You cannot translate your own birth certificate for official purposes like immigration and passport applications. These agencies require a third-party, qualified translator with expertise in the language combination to translate and certify the document.
Self-translation can lead to rejection due to concerns around conflict of interest.
What does it cost to translate a birth certificate?
On average, a certified birth certificate translation costs $25 to $50. However, the exact price depends on the language pair and the translator’s qualifications.
Other translators charge per word. Hence, carefully vet your options before hiring one.
What is the difference between certified and notarized translations?
A certified translation carries a signed statement from the translator indicating the document’s accuracy and competence. On the other hand, a notarized translation carries a notary’s stamp verifying the translator’s identity.
Get Birth Certificate Translations From Rapid Translate
Are you seeking a reliable translation agency to translate your birth certificate for an official application? You’re at the right place; we offer certified translation services for documents and certificates at Rapid Translate.
We offer translations in 60 languages, covering legal, medical, business, and immigration documents. For only $27.99 per page, you’ll enjoy high-quality translations, 24-hour delivery, and 24/7 customer support.
We also offer notarization translations and rushed mail options for people looking to fast-track their orders. After getting an answer to the question, “Can a notary translate a birth certificate?” sign up to make your order.
