Immigration Documents We Notarize
Immigration processes frequently require notarized supporting documents. As a California notary public, we can notarize sworn statements, declarations, and consent letters — documents that contain the signer's own affirmation of facts. Here are common immigration documents we handle:
- Affidavit of Support (I-864 & I-134) — A sworn statement from a U.S. citizen or permanent resident agreeing to financially support an immigrant. These are signed under penalty of perjury and require notarization for many immigration filings.
- Affidavit of Relationship — Confirms a familial relationship between a U.S.-based person and someone abroad seeking immigration benefits.
- Consent Letter for Minors Traveling Internationally — Allows a minor child to travel internationally with one parent or a third party. See our Parental Consent page for more detail.
- General Affidavits and Declarations — Sworn statements verifying addresses, relationships, identity, or other facts needed for immigration filings.
- Notarized Copies of Identity Documents — Some filings request a notarized copy of a passport, permanent resident card, or naturalization certificate. (Note: We attest to copying an original — we do not certify the underlying document's authenticity.)
- Authorization Letters — Granting another person authority to act on behalf of a sponsor or petitioner for immigration-related matters.
- Statutory Declarations — Used in some international filings or for Canadian immigration purposes.
Notarization vs. Certified Translation
A common source of confusion: USCIS and immigration courts often require certified translations of foreign-language documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.). This is different from notarization.
- Certified Translation — A professional translator provides a translation of a foreign document along with a signed certification that the translation is accurate and complete. This is NOT performed by a notary.
- Notarized Translation — Some immigration submissions request a notarized translation, which means the translator's certification is notarized (the notary verifies the translator's signature and identity — NOT the accuracy of the translation).
We can notarize a translator's certification once the translator has signed it in our presence. We do not perform translations.
⚠️ Immigration Law Notice: We are notaries public — not immigration attorneys. We notarize documents; we do not provide immigration legal advice. For legal guidance on your immigration case, consult a licensed immigration attorney or accredited representative.
What to Have Ready
- Valid government-issued photo ID (U.S. driver's license, passport, permanent resident card, or other acceptable ID)
- The complete, unsigned document to be notarized
- Confirm that all blank fields are filled in before the appointment
- If a translator will be signing, they must also be present with ID
- Any original documents you want a notarized copy of (bring the originals)
- Know the exact wording required by the form or filing — some immigration forms specify exact notarial language
- Do NOT sign any document before the notary arrives
- Do NOT use a notary public as an immigration consultant — we cannot advise on immigration law or strategy
- Do NOT confuse notarization with certified translation — USCIS typically requires certified translations of foreign documents
- Do NOT present an expired ID — we must be able to verify your identity
- Do NOT submit documents with blank spaces — fill everything in before the appointment
- Do NOT use someone claiming to be a "notario público" for immigration advice — in Latin America this is a licensed attorney, but in the U.S., a notary public is not an attorney and may not give legal advice
Frequently Asked Questions
The I-864 itself is signed under penalty of perjury and does not always require a separate notarization for USCIS filings. However, many immigration attorneys and sponsors choose to have it notarized for additional legal weight, and some specific filings or local immigration courts may request it. Check with your immigration attorney for your specific case.
We can notarize a photocopy of your passport by attesting that we viewed the original and the photocopy appears to be a true and accurate reproduction. Bring your original passport to the appointment. Note that California notaries do not "certify copies" of vital records — that attestation covers the copy-making process, not the document's authenticity.
Yes, if the translator signs a certification statement in front of us, we can notarize the translator's signature. We are not notarizing the accuracy of the translation — only that the translator signed the certification in our presence. USCIS requirements vary, so confirm with your immigration attorney.
The notary fee is $15 per notarized signature — the California state-regulated maximum. Travel fees start at $50. The total depends on the number of signatures required and your location. Call or text (916) 222-2251 for an exact quote — we're happy to review your document list with you.
Need Immigration Documents Notarized?
We come to you throughout Sacramento. Same-day appointments available. Call or text to confirm availability.