1 July 2025 marks a significant turning point in Vietnam’s notarized translation sector. The new regulations governing notarized translations will bring major changes to the procedures for notarizing translated documents, as well as to the responsibilities and obligations of all parties involved in the process. This blog post provides a summary and analysis of the key updates taking effect from 1 July 2025.
1. Overview of Notarized Translation
Notarized translation is a form of legally recognized translation, in which a translation from one language to another is certified by a notary public as accurate and faithful to the original document. This is a crucial step in many legal transactions, especially those involving foreign documents such as contracts, personal identification papers, investment dossiers and international administrative procedures.
2. New Regulations on Certified Translation
2.1. Certification of Translator’s Signature
One of the most important changes in the new notarial law is the requirement for the translator’s signature to be certified. Starting 1 July 2025, this responsibility will fall under the jurisdiction of commune-level People’s Committees. This means that certified translation services will now require both the involvement of a notary public and official signature authentication by a commune-level state authority.
This regulation is intended to strengthen the legal validity of translated documents and ensure that translators are qualified and accountable for their work. Previously, signature certification was typically handled by notarial authorities or licensed translation agencies, but this authority is now transferred to local government authorities.
2.2. Requirements for Translators
Under the new regulations, translators who perform certified translations must hold a professional translation license and are legally responsible for the quality of their translations. Obtaining this license will require in-depth knowledge of the target language, cultural context and relevant legal frameworks associated with the documents being translated.
Translators must ensure that translations are accurate, faithful and not misleading. If errors are found in the translation, the translator will be held legally accountable for any consequences arising from those mistakes.
2.3. Accuracy is Mandatory in Notarized Translations
A fundamental requirement in notarized translation is accuracy and faithfulness of the translated document to the original. Notarial authorities will verify the translation before certifying its legal validity. This is especially critical for important documents such as contracts, personal identification documents and other legal documents, where precision is non-negotiable.
If the translation contains errors or inconsistencies with the original document, the notary public has the right to refuse certification and may require the translation to be corrected before proceeding.
2.4. Electronic Notarization Procedure
One of the most notable updates in the new certified translation regulations, effective from 1 July 2025, is the introduction of electronic notarization. This marks a major step forward in the modernization of administrative processes in notarized transactions. Electronically notarized documents will carry the same legal validity as paper copies when signed with the digital signature of both the notary and the notarial practice organization.
The adoption of electronic notarization not only reduces time and cost for all involved parties, but also enhances transparency and data security in certified translation transactions. However, the transition between electronic and paper notarization must comply with applicable laws on electronic transactions.
2.5. Recognition of Translations Performed Abroad
For foreign documents requiring notarization in Vietnam, the new regulations stipulate that these documents must first be recognized in the country where the translation was performed before they can be notarized in Vietnam. This ensures the legal validity and authenticity of translated documents in international contexts.
Additionally, the recognition of translated documents from abroad will be carried out in accordance with international treaties to which Vietnam is a party, contributing to a more consistent and transparent legal framework for cross-border transactions.
3. The Notarized Translation Process
Under the new regulations, the notarized translation process begins with the preparation of the documents to be translated. The next steps include selecting a reputable, licensed translation provider, carrying out the translation, and having the translated documents notarized at the competent authorities.
In this process, notarial authorities are responsible for verifying the validity of the translated version, ensuring that no content errors are present and safeguarding the legal rights of all parties involved in the transaction.
4. Impacts of the New Regulations
4.1. Enhanced Transparency and Professionalism
By requiring translators to hold a professional license and assume legal responsibility for their work, the new rules will raise the quality of notarized translations and better protect the interests of stakeholders. This also fosters a more transparent and professional legal environment in the field of notarized translation.
4.2. Protection of Legal Rights
With the introduction of strict rules on translator signature verification and electronic notarization, parties involved in notarized translation transactions will enjoy greater legal protection. These changes help reduce document forgery and safeguard the legal rights of both individuals and organizations.
4.3. Support for the International Translation Market
The new regulations are expected to facilitate cross-border notarized translation activities. The recognition of foreign-translated documents will make it easier to conduct international business, cooperation and investment. This represents a significant step forward in Vietnam’s legal integration and international economic development.
5. Conclusion
The new regulations on certified translation, effective from 1 July 2025 will introduce significant changes to the procedures and requirements for certified translation in Vietnam. These regulations not only enhance the quality of translations but also help protect the legal rights of all parties involved in the transaction. With these new regulations, Vietnam will continue to improve its legal environment, facilitate international transactions, and promote the growth of the certified translation sector.
