Certified vs Sworn vs Notarized vs Attested Translation
Last updated: 2026-06-26
These four terms are often used interchangeably, but they describe different things — and their exact meaning varies by country. Here is what each one generally means so you can ask the receiving authority for the right one.
Certified translation
A certified translation is accompanied by a signed statement — a certificate of accuracy — confirming the translation is complete and faithful to the source. It is the most common requirement for official submissions.
Sworn translation
In some countries a sworn translation is produced by a translator who has taken an oath before a court or authority and is officially listed. The role and its availability vary significantly between jurisdictions, and not every country has a sworn-translator system.
Notarized translation
A notarized translation is one where a notary public verifies the identity of the person who signs the translator's certification. The notary attests to the signature, not to the quality or accuracy of the translation itself.
Attested / legalized translation
An attested or legalized translation has been authenticated through a government chain (for example a foreign ministry and an embassy) so it is recognized for official cross-border use. This is about authentication for use abroad rather than the translation step itself.
Which one do you need?
It depends entirely on the body that will receive your document. Ask them which form they require, then have the translation prepared accordingly. VeriFluent issues professional English–Arabic translations with a documented human accuracy review and preserved formatting.
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Common questions
- Is a certified translation the same as a notarized one?
- No. Certification is the translator's signed statement of accuracy; notarization is a notary verifying the signer's identity. Some authorities require both.
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