Certified translations for USCIS: what they are and how to do one
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, police records: many immigration cases need documents from another country. If a document is not in English, USCIS needs an English translation that follows a specific rule.
General information only, not legal advice. Check the instructions for your form, which may add details for specific documents.
The rule
Under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3), any document in a foreign language must come with:
- a full English translation, and
- the translator’s certification that the translation is complete and accurate, and that they are competent to translate from that language into English.
Who can translate
The rule does not require a professional translator, a particular credential or a notary. What it requires is that the translator is competent in both languages and signs the certification. Many people use a professional or a fluent person other than themselves, so the translation is seen as independent.
What a complete translation includes
- Every word on the document: headings, stamps, seals, handwritten notes and the back of the page if it has text.
- A layout close enough to the original that an officer can match the two.
- Notes such as “[seal]” or “[signature]” where there is no text to translate.
How to put it together
- A copy of the original document.
- The English translation.
- The signed and dated translator certification. Make one for each document: our free translation certificate generator writes it for you to print and sign.
Common mistakes
- Translating only part of a document, or a summary instead of a full translation.
- Leaving out stamps or handwritten notes.
- A certification that does not mention competence, or that is not signed.
- One certification for a whole bundle without naming each document.
These can lead to a request for evidence and weeks of delay.
Immigration court is different
Immigration courts have their own translation rule (8 CFR 1003.33). If your case is in court, ask your attorney or accredited representative what the court needs.
Need help organizing your documents?
One Path Finder can help you gather and organize documents where permitted by law. We are not a law firm and can’t tell you what applies to your case. Contact us to start a conversation. For legal advice, ask us for a referral to our partner law firm.