Are you getting your paperwork ready for USCIS for immigration or citizenship? Provide all forms in English. If your records are in a foreign language, you must obtain a translation. Who can translate documents for USCIS, since the accuracy of the translation affects the speed and success of the process?
In this article, we’ll explain the latest requirements for submitting documents, what a certified translation is, and who should perform it.
Table of Contents
What Are USCIS Translation Requirements?
In the U.S., the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services takes care of immigration and visa issues, including petitions, green card applications, and status changes. They ask that any document not in English include a complete English translation, with no exceptions.
Also, they require a certification from the translator that the paper is accurate. You can check all the rules on their website or in the instructions for each form.
Certified vs. Non-Certified Translation
Certified translation for immigration means a skilled translator who knows USCIS rules has translated your document. The translators sign it and give a certificate of accuracy to prove it matches the original.
A non-certified translation is a plain translation without any proof. USCIS rejects it because they can’t trust that it is reliable. Without that certificate, USCIS rejects or returns your papers for fixes.
Accuracy and Completeness Standards
USCIS asks for translations to be accurate and complete. The main requirements are the following:
- Every word and term without exception must match the original.
- Dates, names, addresses, and other details stay exactly the same.
- The specialist translates stamps, notes, seals, and markings or explains them in notes.
- The format and layout of the document stay as close as possible to the original. The USCIS reviews it quickly and without mistakes.
Don’t add or skip any part of the translation. USCIS checks every detail closely, and even a tiny error in a name, date, or word delays your application.
Types of Documents That Require Translation for USCIS
USCIS handles everything connected with immigration, citizenship, and visas in the United States. People send their papers when they want to get a green card, citizenship, a work visa, or a student visa. Now, let’s look at the most common groups of documents that require translation.
Common Civil Documents (Birth, Marriage, Divorce Certificates)
The largest group is documents that state your identity, relationship status, and connections. This includes birth, marriage, and divorce certificates.
In translations, the original names, dates, and places of birth should be identical to the translated ones. Even a tiny mistake in spelling can cause questions or slow things down. These papers usually have stamps or notes, too. You need to show those in the translation or explain them in a note.
Academic and Professional Records
We can put diplomas, certificates, school reports, university letters, course completion papers, and work or internship documents into this group. People use such records to apply for a work visa, enroll in a study program, or prove their professional background. Translations contain the exact names of schools, job titles, and degrees.
Legal and Immigration Documents
This group covers passports, visas, court rulings, police records, certificates of no criminal record, and other official papers. Legal terms must be spot-on here. Even a minor mistake can change the meaning. For instance, confusing “charge” with “conviction” affects how USCIS handles your case.
Translators keep the original layout and structure, so every detail stays intact.
Who Is Authorized To Translate Documents for USCIS?
Many people think they know English well enough to translate a document on their own. But USCIS accepts only certified translations for any documents in a foreign language. That means only a professional translator, a linguist, or someone fluent in both languages can translate documents for USCIS.
The translator signs a statement confirming the translation is accurate and complete, and writes their name, address, and contact information. This rule applies even to short papers with minimal text.
Can You Translate Your Own Documents?
Even if you know the language really well, USCIS won’t accept document translation for immigration without a certificate. If you submit documents without certification, USCIS will return them, delaying your application and causing wasted time and possible extra costs.
Professional vs. Freelance Translators
Freelancers without USCIS experience may charge less, but they don’t provide any guarantee. Mistakes in terms, dates, or document format slow down the process.
Professional translators who have worked with USCIS before guarantee accuracy and know the full submission process. The agency accepts such translations without returns or revisions. You save time on further processing.
Best Practices for Ensuring USCIS Acceptance
Many people use online agencies without checking their experience or certificates. Around 40–50 % do this just because it’s easier or cheaper. But even after you find an agency, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the process yourself. To make sure USCIS accepts your documents, follow a few simple tips:
Double-Check Translator Credentials
Verify that your translator has experience with USCIS submissions. Check reviews, examples, or proof of work with immigration documents. It reduces the possibility that USCIS will refuse your application and speeds up processing.
Provide a Certificate of Translation
Request a certificate of translation from your translator. It confirms the interpretation is accurate. USCIS does not accept documents without this certificate.
Use a Specialist in Legal/Immigration Translations
Immigration documents are not casual texts. Even if you know English or use an ordinary translator, you won’t be able to accurately handle legal terms, phrasing, or formatting. Only a specialist in linguistics with experience in USCIS translations knows the standards and terminology.
Risks of Using Unauthorized Translators for USCIS Submissions
Using unverified or uncertified papers for USCIS documents brings real risks. Mistakes in the translation delay your application for months. USCIS doesn’t issue fines directly, but delays and extra requirements can become an expensive mistake.
Main problems people face:
- The institution returns documents for corrections due to errors or missing certification.
- Application review stretches for several weeks or months, depending on the USCIS office and the complexity of the documents.
- Money spent on the wrong translation does not produce results.
- Translation mistakes can trigger extra requests or checks from USCIS, adding stress and slowing the process.
To avoid these issues, use only certified translators who follow all USCIS requirements precisely.
Is Notarization of a Certified Translation Required by USCIS?
USCIS does not require notarization. A certified translation alone fulfills their requirements. The translator provides a signed certificate confirming that the translation matches the original.
Notarization applies only in special cases for other organizations, like banks or courts, where an official stamp serves as proof. For immigration or citizenship applications, a certified translation is enough.
Why Choose Rapid Translate as Your Trusted Partner for USCIS-Ready Translations
Rapid Translate delivers USCIS approved translation services that meet all official requirements. We translate visas, green cards, naturalization, and other immigration documents.
People choose us for many reasons:
- Fast service: We translate 1–3 pages in 24 hours.
- Accepted by USCIS: USCIS accepts our translations without problems.
- Extensive language coverage: We work with over 60 languages.
- Accurate quality checks: We carefully check every translation for accuracy and professionalism.
Thanks to Rapid Translate, your documents are compliant with USCIS standards. You will not experience any delays, errors, or refused applications. We always make sure that the translation process is transparent, reliable, and easy.
