The notarization of a document written in a foreign language should only be performed by a notary who has a thorough understanding of the language in which the document and/or notarial certificate are written.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. It depends
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (A)

Notarizing a document written in a foreign language requires the notary to fully understand that language so they can accurately verify what is being sworn or affirmed and confirm that the signer understands what they are signing. If the notary cannot comprehend the document and the notarial certificate, they cannot ensure the signer’s true understanding or accurately complete the certificate, which could lead to fraud or misrepresentation. In such cases, the proper approach is to use a qualified interpreter or postpone the notarization until a translator is available. This is why the best practice is that the notary performing the notarization should have thorough language understanding.