If you’re navigating the U.S. immigration process, understanding the requirements for document translation is crucial. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)  has specific guidelines for translating documents submitted with your immigration application. In this blog, we will break down everything you need to know to ensure your translations meet USCIS standards. As a certified translation provider with years of experience in immigration translations we want our customer to stay informed and succeed in their immigration journeys.

When applying for a visa , green card, or citizenship, you’ll need to submit a variety of documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or academic transcripts. If these documents are in a language other than English, USCIS  requires a certified translation to ensure the accuracy of the information provided. Incorrect or incomplete translations can result in delays or even denials of your application. 

Certified translations must be a word-for-word translation of all visible text. Translators are not allowed to add or remove text or interpret the meaning. At Rush Translations, our certified document translation services adhere strictly to this rule.  

A certified translation will include: 

• English translation that accurately reflects the content of the original document. 

• Certificate of Translation Accuracy  from the translator or translation company, confirming that the translation is complete and accurate, and that the translator is qualified to perform the translation. 

The certification must include the translator’s name, signature, and date, along with a declaration that the translator is fluent in both languages. 

Here’s a list of common documents that often require translation for USCIS  applications: 

• Birth certificates  

• Marriage certificates or divorce decrees   

• Death certificates   

• Adoption records  

• Academic diplomas  and transcripts  

• Police records or court documents 

• Medical records  

• Financial or business documents 

1. Accuracy is Crucial: The translation must be a word-for-word rendering of the original document, not a summary or paraphrasing. 

1. Complete Translation: All text in the original document, including seals, stamps, and signatures, must be translated. Any handwritten notes should also be included in the translation. 

1. No Notarization Required: USCIS does not require notarized translations, but they do require certified translations. 

1. Format Matters: The layout of the translation should resemble the original document as much as possible. This helps the USCIS officer easily cross-reference the translation with the original. 

1. Certification Statement: The translation must include a signed certification statement by the translator, confirming the accuracy and completeness of the translation. 

To avoid delays or issues with your USCIS application, keep these common translation mistakes in mind: 

• Using Google Translate: Automated tools like Google Translate may seem convenient, but they’re often inaccurate and won’t meet USCIS certification standards. 

• Unqualified Translators: Family members or friends may be fluent in the required language, but if they are not professional translators, their work may not meet USCIS standards. 

• Partial Translations: Missing any part of the document, even seemingly unimportant details, can result in your translation being rejected. 

Navigating USCIS translation requirements can be challenging, but our team at Rush Translations is more than equipped to help you navigate this process. We specialize in fast, accurate translations for immigration, legal, and international use and we’ll make sure that your documents are accurate, complete, and formatted correctly—so you can submit your application with confidence. 

If you need help with your USCIS translations, get in touch with us today for a quick and reliable service!