Who Can Apply a Notary Stamp on Translated Documents in the UK?

Only a Notary Public—a legal officer appointed under the authority of the Court of Faculties—is permitted to apply a notary stamp on translated documents. This individual has the legal authority to:

Certify the authenticity of a translation

Verify the identity and signature of the translator (if required)

Confirm that the translation corresponds accurately with the original document

A notary public translation service is typically used when a translated document must be legally recognised in another country. These services are especially important for documents such as:

Birth, marriage, and death certificates

Academic transcripts and diplomas

Affidavits and statutory declarations

Legal contracts and powers of attorney

Immigration and visa-related paperwork

The Role of a Notary Public in Translations
When a document is translated, the notary public does not usually verify the translation’s linguistic accuracy themselves unless they are fluent in both languages. Instead, they may:

Witness the translator’s signature on a declaration confirming the translation is accurate and complete.

Attach a notarial certificate affirming that the translator is competent and that the declaration was duly made and signed.

Stamp and seal the document to confirm its authenticity.

In some cases, the notary may also certify a translator’s credentials or work in conjunction with a certified translation agency that regularly provides notarised translations.

Certification vs Notarisation: What’s the Difference?
It is important to differentiate between:

Certified Translations – Usually prepared and signed by a professional translator or agency, stating the translation is accurate.

Notarised Translations – Involve a notary public who confirms either the identity of the translator or the accuracy of the certification process.

Many official institutions, especially those outside the UK, may require notarised translations rather than just certified ones.

When Do You Need a Notary Public Translation Service?
You will typically need a notary public translation service when:

Submitting legal or official documents abroad

Applying for dual citizenship or residency

Conducting international business or legal transactions

Preparing documents for court proceedings in a foreign country

Final Notes
To ensure your translated documents are accepted internationally, especially in countries that are signatories to the Hague Apostille Convention, you may also need to have the notarised translation apostilled by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) after notarisation.

For legal reliability and international acceptance, it’s crucial to use a reputable notary public translation service that understands the proper procedures for certifying translations.