Notarised Translation for Working Abroad: What You Need to Know

What Is a Notarised Translation and Why Do You Need One for Working Abroad

A notarised translation is a document translated by a qualified translator and then certified by a notary. The notary does not perform the translation themselves — they authenticate the translator's signature, confirming that the translation was carried out by a specific professional and accurately reflects the original. Without this certification, the vast majority of foreign employers, embassies, and government authorities will simply refuse to accept your documents.

In my day-to-day practice I frequently encounter applicants who spend significant time and money obtaining a visa or work permit, only to face rejection because their translations were not properly certified. Getting your paperwork right from the outset can save you months.

Key points to keep in mind:

• The notary certifies the translator's signature — not the content of the translation itself.
• Requirements vary by destination country — always confirm with your employer or the relevant embassy.
• Some countries require an Apostille on the original document before a translation is made.
• For current notarisation fees, please enquire directly with the notary at the time of your visit, as tariffs are reviewed periodically.

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Which Documents Are Most Commonly Translated for Employment Purposes

The exact set of documents depends on the destination country and the nature of the role, but the following core package reflects what most of my clients need:

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How the Notarised Translation Procedure Works

The process is straightforward and generally takes from one to several business days depending on the volume of documents:

• Prepare your original documents. The notary and translator work with originals or notarised copies — not scans or photocopies.
• Select a translator. You may use a translator already working with the notary's office, or bring your own — the essential requirement is that the translator must appear in person before the notary to sign the translation.
• The translator prepares the translation. The full text is translated without omissions; stamps, seals, and official notations must also be reflected in the translated version.
• The notary certifies the translator's signature. The translator signs the translation in the notary's presence; the notary then affixes the certifying endorsement and official seal.
• Apostille, if required. If the destination country is a signatory to the Hague Convention, an Apostille must be placed on the original document. This is a separate step, carried out either before or after the translation depending on the receiving party's requirements.

I strongly recommend confirming with your employer or the consulate whether an Apostille is needed and at which stage it should be obtained. Getting the sequence wrong is one of the most common — and avoidable — mistakes.

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What to Bring to the Notary

• Originals of all documents requiring translation
• Your passport (for identification)
• If acting under a power of attorney — the original authorisation document
• Contact details for your chosen translator (if you are providing one)
• Where available — the receiving party's requirements in writing (employer's letter, embassy instructions)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the notary perform the translation?

No. The notary authenticates the translator's signature. The translation itself is carried out by a professional translator.

Can I bring a translation that has already been completed?

Yes, provided the translator appears in person at the notary's office to sign it. A translation signed remotely or submitted as a scan cannot be notarially certified.

How much does notarised translation cost?

The total cost consists of the notarial fee plus the translator's fee, which varies according to language pair and document volume. Please confirm current figures with the notary at the time of your visit, as rates are subject to periodic revision.

How long is a notarised translation valid?

The translation itself does not expire. However, certain source documents — such as criminal record clearances and medical certificates — have a limited validity period. Always follow the requirements set by the receiving authority.

Does every document need an Apostille?

Not necessarily, and not for every country. Requirements depend on both the destination state and the type of document. Please verify with the relevant embassy or your employer.

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Disclaimer

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute individual legal or notarial advice. Specific document requirements, fees, and processing times depend on the circumstances of your particular case.

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Visit Our Notary Office in the Yunusabad District of Tashkent

If you are preparing to work abroad and need notarised translations of your documents, I am here to help. Contact my office in the Yunusabad district of Tashkent to clarify the list of documents required, obtain current fee information, and schedule a convenient appointment. The earlier you begin the process, the less stress you will face before your departure.