When submitting foreign-language documents to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), they must be accompanied by a certified English translation. Failure to meet USCIS translation requirements can lead to delays or even rejection of your application. This guide covers the official USCIS translation format, certification rules, and tips for compliance.
USCIS follows strict guidelines for translations. According to the USCIS Policy Manual (Volume 1, Part B, Chapter 3), the following rules apply:
Full & Accurate Translation
Every part of the document must be translated, including:
Text
Stamps
Seals
Signatures
Handwritten notes
Certification Statement Required
The translator must include a signed statement certifying that:
They are competent in both languages.
The translation is complete and accurate.
No Notarization Required (Unless Specified)
Unlike some other agencies, USCIS does not typically require notarized translations.
However, some consulates or courts may ask for notarization—always check specific requirements.
Format Must Match the Original
The translation should follow the same structure (paragraphs, tables, etc.) as the source document.
The certification must include:
✅ Translator’s Name & Contact Information
✅ Statement of Competency (e.g., “I am fluent in English and [Source Language]”)
✅ Declaration of Accuracy (e.g., “This is a true and accurate translation of the original document.”)
✅ Signature & Date
“I, [Translator’s Full Name], certify that I am fluent in English and [Source Language] and that the attached document is a true, complete, and accurate translation of the original [Document Name].
[Signature]
[Date]
[Contact Information]”
❌ Missing Certification Statement – USCIS will reject translations without a signed declaration.
❌ Partial or Incomplete Translations – Omitting seals, stamps, or marginal notes can lead to rejection.
❌ Incorrect Formatting – If the translation doesn’t match the original layout, USCIS may question its accuracy.
❌ Using Non-Professional Translators – Friends/family translations are risky unless they include a proper certification.
USCIS does not require translators to be government-approved, but they must be competent. Acceptable translators include:
✔ Professional Translation Services (recommended for legal accuracy)
✔ Bilingual Individuals (if they certify their competency)
✔ ATA-Certified Translators (for additional credibility)
Note: Some applicants mistakenly believe translations must be notarized—USCIS does not require this unless explicitly stated.
How to Choose a Professional Translation Service for USCIS ?
File Format
USCIS prefers typed translations (handwritten may be accepted but is less professional).
If submitting online, use PDF format.
Layout & Structure
Maintain the same order as the original document.
Include headers, footers, and page numbers if present.
Including the Original Document
Submit the original (or certified copy) + translation together.
Do not staple documents—use paperclips or separate sheets.
Birth Certificates
Marriage/Divorce Certificates
Police Clearance Records
Academic Transcripts & Diplomas
Bank Statements & Financial Records
Affidavits & Legal Declarations
✔ Use a Professional Service – Ensures accuracy and compliance.
✔ Double-Check Names & Dates – Even small errors can trigger delays.
✔ Keep Copies – For your records and potential future submissions.
✔ Verify USCIS Updates – Rules can change; check the official USCIS website before filing.
USCIS-certified translations must be complete, accurate, and properly certified—but they don’t need notarization unless specified. By following these guidelines, you can avoid delays and ensure your immigration or visa application proceeds smoothly.
Need a USCIS-approved translation? Always work with Applied lingo to meet all requirements correctly.
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