Understanding USCIS Translation Requirements for Immigration Documents

The USCIS requires that certain documents submitted as part of an immigration petition be translated into English.

03:19 02 April 2025

When applying for a visa, green card, or U.S. citizenship, one of the essential steps in the process is providing accurate and certified translations of any foreign-language documents required by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For those unfamiliar with the process, it can be confusing to understand exactly what types of documents need to be translated, who can provide those translations, and how to ensure everything meets USCIS standards.

In this article, we will walk you through the key points about USCIS translation requirements, why they are important, and how to navigate them effectively.

Why Are Translations Required by USCIS?

The USCIS requires that certain documents submitted as part of an immigration petition be translated into English. This ensures that officers reviewing the case can fully understand and assess the information in the documents, regardless of the language in which they were originally written. Whether it's a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other legal documents, having accurate translations is crucial for the successful processing of an immigration application.

Failure to provide properly translated documents can result in delays, requests for additional information, or even denials of your immigration petition. In some cases, incomplete or incorrect translations could even jeopardize your chances of being granted a visa or green card.

Which Documents Need to Be Translated?

The USCIS requires translation for any document that is not in English. While every immigration case is unique and may require different supporting documents, some of the most common documents that require translation include:

1. Birth Certificates – When applying for a visa, green card, or citizenship, you will likely need to submit your birth certificate. If it is written in a language other than English, a certified translation is necessary.
2. Marriage and Divorce Certificates – If you are married or previously married, USCIS will request proof of your marital status. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or other relevant documentation may need to be translated.
3. Adoption Records – For families applying for immigration on behalf of an adopted child, adoption certificates and related documents often need to be translated.
4. Police Certificates and Court Documents – Any legal documents, such as police certificates, court records, or criminal records, need to be translated if they are in a foreign language.
5. Medical Records – If your immigration petition includes medical records, they may also need to be translated to ensure the USCIS understands your health history.
6. Educational Records – For those applying based on educational qualifications, such as transcripts or diplomas from foreign institutions, these documents will need to be translated to demonstrate their equivalency to U.S. standards.
7. Employment Records – Any documents relating to your employment history, such as letters of employment or pay stubs, must also be translated if they are not in English.

Who Can Translate Documents for USCIS?

The USCIS requires that all translations be completed by a qualified translator. While there is no formal certification process for translators, the USCIS does require that the translation meet certain standards to ensure accuracy.

The translation must include a statement signed by the translator certifying that the translation is accurate and complete. This certification typically reads as follows:

“I, [translator's name], certify that I am competent to translate from [language] into English, and that the above translation is a true and accurate translation of the original document.”

In addition to the translator’s statement, the translator must include their contact information and qualifications, demonstrating that they are capable of providing accurate translations. While anyone can technically translate documents, it is highly recommended to work with a professional translator who specializes in legal or immigration-related documents. An experienced translator will be familiar with the specific terminology and phrasing required for USCIS filings, reducing the risk of errors that could delay your application.

Translation Certification Requirements

In order to meet USCIS standards, translations must include a certificate of accuracy. This certificate should be signed by the translator and affirm that the translation is accurate to the best of their knowledge. Additionally, it must confirm that the translator is fluent in both the language of the original document and English.

The USCIS does not accept non-certified translations, so it is important to ensure that the certificate is included with your submission. Translations should also be typed and formatted in a way that makes them easy to read and understand, with all important details included.

Best Practices for USCIS Translations

1. Accuracy – Accuracy is the most important factor when it comes to USCIS translations. If any part of the translation is incorrect or misleading, it could lead to significant delays or even the denial of your application.
2. Timeliness – Ensure that all translated documents are ready to submit along with your immigration petition. The USCIS processing times can be lengthy, and delays due to missing or incomplete translations can add more time to the process.
3. Complete Translations – All documents should be fully translated, including all seals, stamps, and other annotations on the original documents. Omitting any part of the document could result in a request for further clarification.
4. Professional Translators – As mentioned, it's essential to use a translator who is experienced with USCIS requirements. While it may be tempting to use an automated translation tool or ask a friend to translate, these methods often lead to errors or incomplete translations that are not accepted by USCIS.
5. Prepare Multiple Copies – When submitting your petition, it is a good idea to prepare and submit multiple copies of each translated document. This ensures that if any issues arise during processing, there are sufficient copies available to avoid delays.
6. Verify the Accuracy – Before submitting your documents, verify that the translations are accurate and meet all USCIS standards. It is helpful to review the translated documents carefully, especially when dealing with complex legal or technical terms.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even minor errors in translation can cause significant delays in your immigration process. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:

• Incomplete Translations – Ensure that every section of the original document is translated, including any marginal notes, stamps, or official seals.
• Using Unqualified Translators – Always hire a professional translator who is experienced with USCIS requirements.
• Failure to Include the Certification Statement – If the translator fails to provide a certification statement, USCIS may reject your submission.
• Not Double-Checking the Translation – Ensure the translation is precise and matches the original document word-for-word.

Conclusion

Navigating the USCIS translation requirements may seem challenging, but with the right approach, you can ensure that your documents are properly translated and certified. To ensure your application is processed smoothly, always seek professional translation services that specialize in USCIS documentation. For more details on USCIS translation services, visit Kingsoftranslation.com, where we offer expert assistance to help guide you through this essential step in your immigration process.