The United States is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. English and Spanish are only part of the story. More than 350 languages are spoken across American communities, shaped by immigration, culture, and everyday life.
As these communities grow, legal documents are increasingly prepared in native languages. Mortgage agreements, property deeds, and even marriage certificates may not be written in English. This raises an important question in the notarial space. Can a notary public notarise a document written in another language?
For example, is it possible for an English-speaking notary to notarise a document written in Chinese? Let’s get into it.
How a Notary Public Notarizes a Document in Another Language
A notary public usually authenticates the process through which a document is made, not the content itself. This distinction is important when language becomes a factor.
Many people assume a notary must understand every word on a document before notarising it. In reality, the notary’s role is more focused. The responsibility is to verify identity, confirm willingness, and ensure the document is signed correctly. Due to this, a document written in another language does not automatically prevent notarisation. What matters is if the notary understands the notarial act being requested. The notary must know if the signer needs an acknowledgement, a jurat, or another form of certification. Without that clarity, the notary cannot properly complete the certificate.
The notary must be able to speak directly with the individual to confirm that they understand what they are signing and that they are doing so voluntarily. If the notary cannot communicate with the signer, the appointment should not proceed. The issue is not the language on the page but the ability to carry out the notarial duties confidently and ethically.
In many situations, a simple solution is a translated title or summary of the document. This ensures the notary completes a certificate they understand while the original document remains unchanged.
There are, however, moments when translation becomes necessary. If the certificate is written in another language, the notary should not complete it unless they understand it. Guessing, relying on assumptions, or acting as an interpreter is a risk for the notary and the signer. When uncertainty exists, requesting a certified translation or a bilingual certificate is the safer approach.
For clients, preparation makes the process smoother. Bringing identification, explaining the purpose of the document, and providing a translated heading can prevent delays. Asking the notary in advance whether they handle foreign language documents also helps set expectations.
Ultimately, notarising a document in another language is possible and fairly common in diverse communities. The key principle remains the same. A notary verifies the act, not the meaning of the document. When communication is clear and the notarial certificate is properly completed, language does not have to be a barrier. Care, clarity, and professionalism ensure the process remains valid for everyone involved.
