Notarization and Notarized translation in Japan

Two cases where notarization is necessary

Case 1: When you need a notarized translation

Notarization is necessary when you need to submit a translation for various procedures (visa application, marriage application, job application, etc.) and when its relevant agency/organization asks you to submit not a simple certified translation but a notarized translation, a translation with an affidavit, a translation with a sworn statement, a translation with a statutory declaration, etc.

Case 2: When you need a legalized (apostilled / authenticated) translation

Notarization is necessary when you need to submit a legalized (apostilled / authenticated) translation for various procedures because translations, which are private documents, need to be officialized by notarization as an apostille and an authentication are both certifications of official documents by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Notarization process

The notarization of the translation corresponds to the notarization of the signature of the translator.

In the notary office,

1. The notary verifies the identity of the translator with the passport, driving permit, etc.

2. In front of the notary, the translator affixes his/her signature on the translator's certificate (declaration of language proficiency, accuracy of the translation, etc.)

3. The notary issues a set of documents composed of:

- a document needed to be translated (original or certified copy)
- a translation
- a translator's certificate (declaration)
- a notarial certificate

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Translator's certificate (declaration) in two languages

Notarial certificate (in Japanese and English)

Notarization fees

The notary fee is 11,500 yen per translator's certificate written in two languages.

The handling fee is 4,500 yen.

Necessary time

Request for quotation

Translation (Japanese / English) of civil documents, certificates, etc.

Koseki Tohon/Shohon

Juminhyo