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DocumentationUpdated March 2026

When Translations Are Required

USCIS rules for translated documents, the certification statement translators must include, and formatting tips to avoid rejection.

Last updated: March 2026
Based on official USCIS guidelines

If any of your documents are not in English, USCIS requires you to submit a full English translation along with the original document. Failing to include proper translations can lead to delays or a Request for Evidence (RFE).

Quick Overview

When required: Any document not in English
What is needed: Full English translation + certification
Who can translate: Anyone fluent in both languages (with certification)
Common mistake: Missing or incomplete translations

When Are Translations Required?

You must provide translations if any document submitted to USCIS is in a foreign language.

Common examples:

  • Birth certificates
  • Marriage certificates
  • Divorce decrees
  • Police records
  • Financial or legal documents

If even part of the document is not in English, it should be translated.

What Must Be Translated?

USCIS requires:

  • A complete and accurate translation
  • All visible text translated (not just key sections)

This includes:

  • Stamps
  • Seals
  • Notes or handwritten text

Partial translations are not accepted.

Who Can Translate Documents?

The translator must:

  • Be fluent in both English and the original language
  • Provide a signed certification

The translator does NOT need to be:

  • A professional translator
  • A notary

However:

  • The applicant should not translate their own documents

Translation Certification Requirements

Each translation must include a certification statement.

Example Certification

“I certify that I am fluent in English and [foreign language], and that the translation is complete and accurate to the best of my ability.”

The certification should include:

  • Translator’s full name
  • Signature
  • Date

How to Submit Translations

When submitting your documents:

  • Include a copy of the original document
  • Include the full English translation
  • Attach the certification statement

Keep them together as one set.

Formatting Tips

To avoid issues:

  • Match the format of the original document as closely as possible
  • Clearly label translated sections
  • Keep translations clean and readable
  • Avoid handwritten translations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting documents without translation
  • Providing partial translations
  • Missing certification statement
  • Using unclear or poorly formatted translations
  • Separating translation from the original document

These mistakes can lead to RFEs or delays.

Real Experiences & Tips

Based on real applicant experiences from public immigration communities:

  • Many RFEs are issued due to missing or incomplete translations
  • Even small untranslated sections (like stamps) can cause issues
  • Clear and well-formatted translations help avoid delays
  • Keeping translations attached to the original document improves clarity
  • Double-checking translations before submission can prevent problems

These experiences may vary depending on your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do translations need to be notarized?
No, notarization is not required by USCIS.

Can I translate my own documents?
It is not recommended. A third party should provide the translation.

Do I need to translate English documents?
No, only non-English documents require translation.

Summary

Any document not in English must be fully translated and properly certified before submitting to USCIS. Providing complete and accurate translations helps ensure your application is processed without unnecessary delays.

Not Sure If Your Translations Are Correct?

Translation mistakes can lead to delays or RFEs.

Answer a few quick questions and we’ll help you make sure your documents meet USCIS requirements.

  • Takes about 2 minutes
  • Personalized to your case
  • Helps you avoid delays

Check your eligibility: [Take the Quiz]

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