Immigration paperwork is one of the most important — and sensitive — document categories that notaries encounter. People often assume a notary public can “help with immigration forms,” but there are strict legal limits on what a notary is allowed to do.
Understanding those boundaries helps protect you, your clients, and the integrity of the immigration process.
What a Notary Public Can Do
Notaries play a limited but essential role when it comes to immigration-related paperwork. While they can’t give legal advice, they can perform certain authorized notarial acts connected to immigration documents.
A Notary May:
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Witness and notarize signatures on immigration-related documents — as long as the document doesn’t require legal advice or document preparation.
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Administer oaths and affirmations (for example, when an affidavit or sworn statement is needed as part of a visa or residency application).
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Certify copies of certain non-recordable documents if state law permits.
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Verify identities of signers using valid, government-issued identification.
In short, a notary ensures that documents are properly signed and that the signer’s identity is verified — nothing more, nothing less.
What a Notary Public Cannot Do
In the United States, a notary public is not a legal representative or an immigration consultant unless they also hold a valid law license or accreditation from the U.S. Department of Justice.
A Notary May Not:
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Give legal advice or explain immigration forms.
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Help fill out immigration paperwork unless they are also a licensed attorney or DOJ-accredited representative.
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Choose or recommend which forms a person should file.
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Collect payment for immigration assistance without proper accreditation.
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Imply the title “Notario Público” in a way that suggests legal authority (especially in Spanish-speaking communities).
Violating these rules can lead to severe penalties, including loss of commission, fines, or even criminal charges for unauthorized practice of law.
Common Immigration Documents That May Need Notarization
While notaries cannot prepare immigration forms, they may be asked to notarize supporting documents, such as:
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Affidavits of Support (Form I-864)
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Identity affidavits or name change statements
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Translators’ affidavits confirming the accuracy of document translations
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Employment verification statements
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Consent forms or power of attorney documents used in immigration processes
Before notarizing, the notary must ensure:
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The signer is present and willing,
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The document is complete, and
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The notarial certificate (acknowledgment or jurat) is properly attached.
Why This Matters
Misunderstandings about notary authority are common — especially because in many Latin American and European countries, a “Notario Público” is a licensed attorney.
In the U.S., however, a notary’s role is limited to identity verification and witnessing signatures.
That’s why it’s critical for both notaries and clients to know their rights and responsibilities — and avoid anyone offering immigration “help” without proper credentials.
Best Practices for Notaries Handling Immigration-Related Requests
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Be clear about your role. Let signers know you are not authorized to give legal advice.
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Use correct certificates. Always attach the proper notarial wording required by your state.
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Keep detailed records. Log every notarization involving immigration forms in your journal.
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Refer clients to licensed professionals. If someone needs help completing forms, refer them to an immigration attorney or DOJ-accredited representative.
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Avoid translation errors. Ensure the signer fully understands the document before notarization.
How Looking Glass Notary Helps
At Looking Glass Runners Notary, we uphold the highest ethical standards. Our certified notaries handle immigration-related notarizations with accuracy, clarity, and care — while always respecting the legal boundaries of our role.
We provide secure, convenient in-person and online notarization options to make the process easier for clients, wherever they are.
Key Takeaways
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Notaries can notarize signatures on immigration forms.
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Notaries cannot provide legal advice, prepare forms, or act as immigration consultants.
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Always confirm that your notary understands the limits of their authority and uses proper documentation.
