What should a notary do if asked to notarize a signature on a document written in a foreign language?
Since foreign language documents are sometimes accompanied by foreign language speakers, let’s begin by pointing out that it is mandatory that the notary be able to communicate directly with the signer – without the assistance of a translator – in order for the notarization to take place. If the notary and signer can’t communicate directly the notary must decline the notarization and the signer should find a notary fluent in their language. If direct communication with the signer is possible but the notary can’t read the body of the document, notaries have the discretion to either continue with the notarization or they may decline the notarization for reasons discussed below. Either way, every document bearing a notarized signature must also contain a notarial certificate and the notarial certificate must be in a language that the notary understands. If you decide that you are unable to perform the notarization please try to assist the signer in finding a notary that can work with them
First, the notary and the signer must be able to communicate directly without the assistance of a translator. If the notary and signer can’t communicate directly the notary must decline the notarization and the signer should find a notary fluent in their language. If direct communication with the signer is possible but the notary can’t read the body of the document, notaries have the discretion to either continue with the notarization or they may decline the notarization for reasons discussed below. Either way, every document bearing a notarized signature must also contain a notarial certificate and the notarial certificate must be in a language that the notary understands. If you decide that you are unable to perform the notarization please try to assist the signer in finding a notary that can work with them or direct them to contact the notary office for assistance. In some cases, foreign language documents may be drafted such that the notary’s name is embedded in the body of the doc
