In 2022, nearly 2.6 million people from around the world migrated to the US. The application process to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can sometimes be complex, especially when it requires document translation. The USCIS mentions that every document in a foreign language submitted with an application must be accompanied by its English translation and certified as such. 

In order to get your application accepted and not have it delayed or rejected, the translations need to adhere to USCIS standards. In this guide, we're sharing the five main steps to better understanding and adhering to the USCIS translation rules.

Understand What Documents Need Translation

Firstly, you have to identify the papers that need translation for USCIS. Typically, any document not in English that supports your immigration application should be translated. This includes birth certificates, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, educational transcripts or diplomas, and police records, among others. Always check your documents before submitting them. Ensure that any document in a different language is correctly translated into English because if not, your application could be delayed or even declined.

Check the USCIS form instructions concerning your case before starting with translations. These instructions will state which documents are needed and if there is any exception to translating needs. For instance, USCIS might not require translations for documents written in English, but if any portion of the document is in another language, only that section needs to be translated.

Choose a Qualified Translator

Deciding on the correct translator is an important part of guaranteeing your translations adhere to USCIS's guidelines. While the USCIS doesn't explicitly require a professional translator or translation company, they do require that the translator be both proficient in English and the source language, as well as certified. The translator should offer an exact and full translation of the document.

When choosing a translator, it is better to use someone who has experience in translating documents for immigration. You can look for an online USCIS certified translation service that will offer a notarized version of your documents for a great price with flawless quality, as well as convenience. This will provide peace of mind, knowing that your documents are correctly translated so you won’t experience difficulties when submitting them.

Prepare a Certification Statement

A certification statement is a necessary part of every translated document given to the USCIS. It's an official declaration from the translator that states they have accurately and fully translated it as much as possible. This certification needs to have the name, address, signature of the translator, and a declaration stating their qualifications for translating said document.

The USCIS needs this certification to make sure that the translation is a valid and honest representation of the original document. It's very important that the certification statement must be written clearly and it should contain all necessary information. If there are any missing or wrong details in the certification, then your translation may not get accepted, which could cause a delay in your application process.

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Review and Proofread the Translations

Once the translation process is over, make sure to review them carefully one more time to spot any mistakes. Check that all names, dates, and legal language are translated correctly. Also, confirm if the translation truly represents what was written in the original document.

Ask for a second review from someone skilled in both languages, like another qualified translator or someone who has fluency in these two languages. This helps to ensure that no mistakes are missed and provides more confidence about meeting USCIS requirements.

Submit the Translations with Your Application

After the translation is completed, checked, and certified, there's one last step. This is to turn in them with your USCIS application. You should hand over both the original document as it is in a foreign language and also its certified English translation. You must arrange your application package properly, making certain all translated documents, including their corresponding certifications, are well-marked and simple to find within this set of paperwork.

While sending your application, it might be good to include a cover letter that lists all the documents you are submitting, which should also be translated. Such a list can assist officers at USCIS in finding and examining required materials quickly. When you apply, keep copies of everything sent like original translations and certifications for future reference if any problems occur during the application process.

Bottom Line

Understanding the USCIS translation requirements is very important for your immigration application. The five steps mentioned above are all key elements in making sure that you comply with these rules. Following this process correctly helps ensure the smooth processing of your application without any unwanted delays.