One of the most common questions we receive is: "Do I need a notary or a certified translation — or both?" It is an understandable source of confusion, because the two services are related but serve very different purposes. This article explains each one clearly.
What Is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation is a translation of a document from one language to another, accompanied by a signed declaration from the translator confirming that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of their knowledge.
In Thailand, certified translations are typically done by professional translators who sign and stamp the translated document. The certification confirms:
- The translator's identity and qualifications
- That the translation faithfully represents the original document
- The date the translation was completed
Certified translation answers the question: "Is this translation accurate?"
What Is Notarisation?
Notarisation is a separate process performed by a Notarial Services Attorney — a licensed Thai lawyer who has been certified by the Lawyers Council of Thailand to perform notarial acts.
A notary does not translate documents. Instead, a notary:
- Verifies the identity of the person signing a document
- Witnesses signatures on legal documents
- Certifies that a copy of a document is a true copy of the original
- Authenticates the signature of a translator on a certified translation
Notarisation answers the question: "Is this document authentic and properly executed?"
Key Differences at a Glance
| Certified Translation | Notarisation | |
|---|---|---|
| Who performs it | Professional translator | Licensed Notarial Services Attorney |
| What it confirms | Translation accuracy | Document authenticity / identity verification |
| Required for | Submitting foreign docs to Thai authorities | Legal proceedings, overseas use, embassy submissions |
| Can be done without the other | Yes | Yes |
When Do You Need Both?
Many situations require both a certified translation AND notarisation — the translation must first be completed, and then the notary authenticates the translator's signature on it.
You typically need both when:
- Submitting documents to a foreign embassy in Thailand (e.g., applying for a visa to another country)
- Using Thai documents abroad (e.g., a Thai marriage certificate being used in Europe or the US)
- Court proceedings in Thailand involving foreign-language documents
- Property transactions involving foreign nationals
- Power of attorney documents for use in another country
When Is Certified Translation Alone Sufficient?
For many routine purposes in Thailand, a certified translation without notarisation is enough:
- Marriage registration at the district office (Amphoe)
- Work permit applications at the Department of Employment
- Immigration visa applications at Thai Immigration
- School or university enrolment
Always confirm with the receiving authority what level of certification they require before ordering your translation.
What About Ministry of Foreign Affairs Legalisation?
If your document will be used in a country that is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, you may need legalisation by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Bangkok. This is a separate step that comes after notarisation.
For countries that are Hague Convention members, an apostille may be sufficient instead of full legalisation.
How We Can Help
At Pattaya Certified Translation, we offer both certified translation and notarisation services under one roof. Our team can advise you on exactly what level of certification your specific document requires, saving you time and unnecessary expense. Contact us for a free consultation.