The Expat Notary

Does a notarized document also need a certified translation?

If the receiving country's authority works in another language, yes — the notarized document plus its certified translation are usually submitted together. Some authorities also require the translation itself to be notarized or apostilled.

What is an apostille and when do I need one?

An apostille authenticates a public document for use in another Hague-Convention country. China joined the Apostille Convention in November 2023, so many documents between China and other contracting states now need an apostille instead of consular legalization (for non-member countries, consular legalization still applies).

Should I translate a document before or after notarization?

The sequence depends on the receiving authority. A common pattern in China: notarize the original, then attach a certified translation; some notary offices issue bilingual notarial certificates directly. Ask the receiving authority which format it accepts.

What documents most often need notarized translation?

Birth and marriage certificates, degrees and transcripts, criminal-record certificates, powers of attorney, and company documents for cross-border use.