If you’re submitting a document to USCIS that is in any language other than English, it must be accompanied by a full English translation plus a signed certification from the translator stating the translation is complete and accurate and that they are competent to translate. You do not need a licensed, government-approved, or ATA-certified translator, and in most cases you do not need the translation notarized. Below, we explain exactly what USCIS requires, which documents typically need translating, turnaround times, and when notarization or an apostille comes into play.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Immigration cases are fact-specific—confirm requirements for your case with USCIS or a qualified immigration attorney.
What does USCIS actually require for translations?
The rule comes from federal regulation 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3). Any foreign-language document filed with USCIS must include:
- A full English translation of the entire document, and
- A certification from the translator stating they are competent to translate the foreign language into English and that the translation is complete and accurate.
That’s the whole standard. There’s no requirement that the translator hold a special license or credential.
What is a “certified translation”?
A certified translation is simply a translation accompanied by that signed certification statement. The statement typically includes:
- A declaration that the translator is competent in both languages
- A statement that the translation is complete and accurate
- The translator’s name, signature, and date
- The translator’s contact information
The certification does not have to be notarized to meet USCIS requirements (though some other agencies or situations may ask for it—see below).
Does the translation have to be word-for-word and complete?
Yes—completeness is critical. The English translation must account for everything on the original document, including:
- All printed text
- Stamps, seals, and official markings
- Handwritten notes and annotations
- Signature lines and signatures (noted as such)
Formatting should reasonably mirror the original so an officer can match the translation to the source document. Leaving out a stamp or seal is a common reason translations get rejected.
Can I translate my own documents for USCIS?
No—don’t do it. While the regulation doesn’t explicitly ban self-translation, USCIS officers routinely question and reject translations done by the applicant or a close family member because of the obvious conflict of interest. Use a competent third-party translator to avoid delays.
Which documents commonly need a USCIS certified translation?
Any non-English document in your application. The most common include:
- Birth certificates (very common for green card and family petitions)
- Marriage certificates and divorce decrees
- Death certificates
- Diplomas, degrees, and academic transcripts
- Police / criminal background records
- Passports and national ID pages (when required)
- Bank statements and financial records
- Court documents and affidavits
- Adoption records
If it’s part of your USCIS filing and it’s not in English, plan to have it translated and certified.
How long does a certified translation take?
Turnaround depends on the document’s length and complexity. A standard single-page document like a birth or marriage certificate is often ready in a day or two, with rush service available. Longer documents (academic transcripts, court files) take longer. Always build in a buffer before your filing deadline.
When do I need notarization or an apostille?
This is where people get confused. These are three different things:
- Certified translation — the translator’s signed accuracy statement. This is what USCIS requires for foreign-language documents.
- Notarization — a notary public verifies the identity of the person signing. USCIS generally does not require translations to be notarized, but some institutions (schools, foreign consulates, certain agencies) may ask for it.
- Apostille — an official certification (under the Hague Convention) that authenticates a public document for use in another country. You’d typically need an apostille when sending U.S. documents abroad, not for USCIS filings within the U.S.
If you’re not sure which you need, ask before you pay—getting the wrong one wastes time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does USCIS require a certified translator or ATA certification?
No. USCIS requires only that the translator be competent in both languages and provide a signed certification of completeness and accuracy. ATA certification is respected but not required.
Does my USCIS translation need to be notarized?
Generally no. USCIS accepts a signed translator’s certification without notarization. Some other institutions may request notarization, so confirm your specific requirement.
Can a friend or family member translate my documents for USCIS?
It’s risky. USCIS often questions translations by the applicant or close relatives due to conflict of interest. A neutral, competent translator is the safer choice.
What happens if a stamp or seal isn’t translated?
The translation may be considered incomplete and could be rejected or trigger a Request for Evidence. Every stamp, seal, and marking must be accounted for in the English translation.
Do I need the original document or is a copy okay?
The translation is made from your document (often a clear copy). USCIS may separately ask for certified copies of certain originals—check the requirements for your specific form and case.
Need documents translated for USCIS? We’re bilingual specialists.
VIP Choice Service provides certified translations for USCIS, plus notary and apostille services—all in English and Spanish. We make sure every stamp and seal is accounted for so your filing isn’t delayed.
Call (972) 807-2217 or visit vipchoiceservice.com for a free bilingual consultation and a quote. Office: 9550 Forest Lane, Suite 440, Dallas, TX 75243.
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