A certified translation and a notarized translation are two different types of translations, often used for official or legal purposes. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between the two:
Certified Translation:
A certified translation is a translation that has been completed by a professional translator who is certified by a regional certifying body to provide accurate translations. In British Columbia the certifying body is the Society of Translators and Interpreters of British Columbia (STIBC) while for Canada as a whole it is the Canadian Translators, Terminologists and Interpreters Council (CTTIC).
The certification is a statement made by the translator or a translation agency affirming that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of their knowledge and abilities. It attests to the quality and accuracy of the translation.
In some cases, a certified translation may include a signed statement from the translator, their contact information, and details about their qualifications or credentials. It may also bear an official stamp or seal from the translation service provider.
Certified translations are commonly required for legal documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic transcripts, or contracts when submitting them to government authorities, educational institutions, or other official entities.
Notarized Translation:
A notarized translation is a translation that has been certified by a notary public. In addition to the certification provided by the translator, a notary public adds an additional level of authentication to the translation. The notary public verifies the identity of the translator and attests to their certification. They may also confirm that the translation was done accurately and that it represents the content of the original document.
To obtain a notarized translation, the translator typically submits both the original document and the translated version to the notary public. The notary public then compares the two documents, verifies the translator’s identity, and attaches a notarial certificate or seal to the translated document.
Notarized translations are often required for legal or official documents that need to be presented in foreign jurisdictions or when dealing with certain government agencies or courts. They provide an added level of authenticity and credibility to the translation.
In summary, a certified translation is a translation provided by a qualified professional, accompanied by a statement of accuracy, while a notarized translation is a certified translation that has been additionally authenticated by a notary public. The specific requirements for certified or notarized translations may vary depending on the country or organization requesting them, so it’s advisable to check the specific requirements of the relevant authority.
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