The notary does not vouch for contents
A notarization confirms the signer's identity and the act of signing. It does not certify that the content is true or even say what the content is. So a notary may notarize a signature on a document in a language they cannot read, in many states.
Some states restrict this or require special care, so check local rules.
It is usually wise to keep the notary's role clearly separate from the document's content. A notary who says nothing about the text is on safer ground than one who guesses.
The certificate language
The notarial certificate is generally in English for a U.S. notary, even if the document is in another language. If the receiving country needs the certificate in another language, the usual path is a certified translation of the certificate attached afterwards, or a bilingual certificate prepared by the receiver.
The notary should not translate the certificate on their own.
A bilingual certificate is usually prepared by the party who needs it. If the form arrives with text in two languages, the notary should still use only the approved wording for their own state.
Communication with the signer
The notary must still be able to speak with the signer to confirm identity and willingness. If they share no language, an interpreter may be needed, as discussed in the interpreter guide.
Do not sign off on something just because the stack of papers looks official.
Be careful with the paper itself
Because the notary cannot read the text, there is more risk of an incomplete or altered document. Check page counts, look for blank areas, and ask the signer to confirm the document is complete. If the document has a signature page only, ask to see the rest.
Note the document's title and language in the journal.
If you suspect the document is a different one from the signer's description, say so politely and ask for a plain-language explanation from the signer, an interpreter or the person who gave it to them.
What happens next
Many foreign-language documents are headed for apostille or embassy legalization. The notary's job ends with the notarization, but it helps to tell the signer that the receiving country may want a translation and a state-level certification afterwards. The signer can check with the destination office on the order of steps.
If the signer needs an apostille, the notary's name, signature and commission must match state records.
Questions to ask the signer
Ask what kind of document it is, where it is going, and whether the receiving office has said how it should be notarized. These answers help you decide whether an acknowledgment or a jurat is being requested, though the signer or receiver still chooses.
Ask whether the document is complete and whether any pages have been translated separately. Keep a copy of the first page for your own records if the signer permits.
Common questions
Can a notary refuse because they cannot read the document?
In some states they may, if they cannot confirm key details. In many, they can proceed if the process is otherwise sound.
Does notarization make a translation official?
No. Notarization of a translator's signature confirms the translator's identity, not the quality of the translation.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.