How to make certified translations of official documents

Disclaimer: No responsibility for using this document (or otherwise not using it) is assumed whatsoever.

Here is a simple way to prepare certified translations of official documents. Worked for me on all occasions in different foreign consulates and universities in North America, but not guaranteed to work for you. You will only need a friend fluent in both languages and with a proper identification (passport or a Driver's License).

  1. Prepare a translation. At the bottom, add a clause like this (on behalf of your bilingual friend):

    Examples:
  2. Find a notary or someone with notarial powers (with a notarial stamp), you can simply ask for this small favor the clerks at a local branch of your favorite bank (just tell them you have an account there). Or ask at your place of work or check the phone listing for Notary Public.
  3. Ask your friend to sign this clause in front of a notary; the notary will then notarize the signature. (The notary will write something like Sworn before me in the City of New York on September 25, 2006, will sign and apply a notary's stamp.)
  4. Staple the certified translation to the copy of the original document (unless you want a clerk at a Consulate or wherever to do it for you).

Written by Andrew Comech