What is notarised translation?
A notarised translation is a translation that has been witnessed and authenticated by a notary public or, in some Australian contexts, a Justice of the Peace (JP). It confirms the translator's identity and the document's authenticity for legal or official use.
Detailed description
A notarised translation is a translation that has been witnessed and authenticated by a notary public or, in some Australian contexts, a Justice of the Peace (JP). The notarisation attests to the identity of the translator and the authenticity of the translation document, adding a layer of legal authentication beyond the translator's own certification.
Notarised translation is distinct from NAATI certified translation. NAATI certification attests to the translator's professional competence and the accuracy of the translation. Notarisation attests to the identity of the person who produced the translation and the authenticity of the document. Some official processes require one, the other, or both.
Notarised translations are most commonly required for documents being used internationally, particularly in jurisdictions that require notarisation as part of their document authentication process. Common scenarios include documents for use in countries that are party to the Hague Apostille Convention, corporate and legal documents for cross-border transactions, academic credentials for international recognition, and immigration documents for jurisdictions that specify notarisation.
The notarisation process typically involves the translator completing the translation and signing a declaration of accuracy, then appearing before a notary public who verifies the translator's identity, witnesses the signing, and applies their notarial seal and signature to the document.
LEXIGO provides notarised translation services, coordinating the notarisation process alongside NAATI certified translation to deliver documents that meet both Australian and international authentication requirements.
Why it matters
Using a non-notarised translation where notarisation is required will result in document rejection, requiring retranslation and the associated time and cost. Understanding whether your specific use case requires NAATI certification, notarisation, or both is essential for ensuring documents are accepted the first time.
For individuals and organisations dealing with international document requirements, working with a provider that can manage both certification and notarisation streamlines the process and ensures all authentication requirements are met.
Related questions about notarised translation
Do I need a notarised translation in Australia?
Usually no, not for use in Australia. Home Affairs and other Australian authorities ask for a NAATI certified translation, which LEXIGO provides and which is widely accepted by Australian authorities and bodies. Check exactly what is required, and we can guide you through the process.
When is a notarised translation needed?
Mostly when you are sending documents overseas. Some foreign authorities ask for the translation to be notarised by a notary public, or legalised with an apostille or authentication from DFAT. Check with the receiving authority, and we can help you work out the steps.
Can DFAT apostille a NAATI translation?
Yes. DFAT can issue an apostille or authentication on a NAATI translation when the translator's NAATI stamp shows the required details, such as practitioner ID, credential, name and date, on every page, with a copy of the original attached.
Can a Justice of the Peace certify a translation?
No. A Justice of the Peace can witness signatures and statutory declarations, but cannot vouch for the accuracy of a translation. For official use you need a NAATI certified translator.
Should I translate my birth certificate?
Yes, if it is not in English and you need it for a visa, citizenship, passport or another official purpose in Australia. Use a NAATI certified translator and submit it with the original document.