USCIS Guidelines for Document Translations

Why USCIS Requires Certified Document Translations (And How to Get It Right)

If you're applying for immigration benefits in the United States, it's essential to understand that USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) requires all foreign-language documents to be submitted with a certified English translation. Whether you're submitting a birth certificate, marriage license, academic transcript, or legal document, your translation must meet very specific standards—or risk delays or denials in your immigration process.

This guide will explain why USCIS requires certified translations, what those translations must include, and how to avoid common mistakes that could jeopardize your case.

CERTIFIED DOCUMENT TRANSLATIONS FOR USCIS

Why Certified Translations Are Required

USCIS must be able to clearly understand every document it receives. Because English is the only accepted language for review, any documents in another language must be translated into English by someone who can attest to their accuracy and competence. The goal is to ensure that your information is reviewed fairly and in full context, without misinterpretation.

What Is a Certified Translation?

A certified translation is more than just an accurate conversion of a document from one language to another. It includes a formal statement—signed by the translator—attesting that the translation is complete and accurate and that the translator is qualified in both languages.

Although USCIS does not require ATA certification or notarization in every case, it's still best to use a professional translator or translation company that specializes in immigration documentation and understands USCIS compliance.

What Must Be Included in a USCIS-Certified Translation?

To be accepted by USCIS, your translated document must include:

✔️ A complete and accurate English translation of the original document✔️ A certification statement signed by the translator✔️ The translator’s name, address, and contact information✔️ The date of translation✔️ A declaration of fluency in both the source and target languages

Key USCIS Translation Requirements

✅ Accuracy and Completeness: The translation must reflect every word, number, and format element from the original document—including stamps, seals, and layout.

✅ Third-Party Translation Only: Even if you’re fluent in both languages, you may not translate your own documents. USCIS requires that a neutral third-party complete and certify the translation.

✅ No Added Interpretation: The translation must include only what appears in the original document. No summaries, personal opinions, or added context should be included.

✅ Maintain Original Structure: The format of the translated document should mirror the original as closely as possible, including any official stamps, headers, or unique formatting.

✅ Notarization (Optional): While not always required, some documents—particularly those issued abroad—may benefit from being notarized for added credibility.

Examples of Documents That Commonly Require Translation

• Birth certificates

• Marriage licenses

• Divorce decrees

• Death certificates

• Police reports or background checks

• Academic transcripts and diplomas

• Financial records (when applicable)

• Passports or national ID cards

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What to Avoid

🚫 Machine Translations: Do not use tools like Google Translate. USCIS requires human translation certified by a competent translator.

🚫 Self-Translations: Applicants and petitioners are not permitted to translate or certify their own documents—even if fluent in both languages.

Final Thoughts

Certified document translations are not just a formality—they’re a critical part of your immigration paperwork. Mistakes, omissions, or informal translations can result in delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), or even denial of your application.

When accuracy, speed, and compliance matter most, work with a trusted certified translation provider who understands USCIS requirements and can deliver properly formatted, fully compliant translations.

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