USCIS Certificate of Translation
Written by Nate Webber
Idiomatic USA Chief Content Officer
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The USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) Certificate of Translation is a crucial requirement for individuals applying for visas, green cards, and citizenship in the United States. This certificate accompanies any document not originally in English, verifying that the translation is accurate and complete. Understanding the specifications for a USCIS-compliant Certificate of Translation is vital for applicants to ensure their application process proceeds without delays due to documentation issues.
Requirements for USCIS Certificate of Translation
The USCIS mandates specific requirements for the certification of translated documents:
Accuracy: The translator must certify that the translation is both accurate and complete.
Translator's Information: The certificate must include the translator's name, signature, address, and date of certification.
Translator's Competence: The translator or translation company must attest to their competence to translate from the foreign language into English.
Key Elements of a USCIS Certificate of Translation
Title: The document should be clearly labeled as a "Certificate of Translation" or similar.
Certification Statement: A formal statement by the translator or translation agency affirming that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of their knowledge and ability.
Translator's Credentials: Information regarding the translator's qualifications or the translation company's credentials.
Identification of Translated Documents: A clear reference to the document(s) being translated, including the type of document and the language from which it was translated.
Contact Information: Full contact details of the translator or the translation agency.
Signature and Date: The certificate must be signed and dated by the translator or a representative of the translation agency.
Importance of Compliance
Compliance with USCIS requirements for certified translations is non-negotiable. Failure to submit properly certified translations can result in delays, requests for evidence (RFEs), or even denial of the application. Applicants must ensure that all foreign language documents are accompanied by a USCIS-compliant Certificate of Translation.
Resources and Samples
Sample Certification of Translation: The International Office at Berkeley provides a template that meets USCIS requirements, illustrating how a certification statement should be structured.
Sample Copy Certificate of Translation: The Department of Justice offers a sample certificate, highlighting the essential elements like the translator’s declaration of competence and the accuracy of the translation.
Certified Translation for USCIS Applications: CitizenPath outlines the importance of certified translations for USCIS applications, emphasizing the need for a sworn statement by the translator about the accuracy of the translation.
For immigrants and visa applicants, understanding and adhering to the USCIS Certificate of Translation requirements is a critical step in the application process. By ensuring that all documents are accurately translated and properly certified, applicants can avoid unnecessary complications. It's advisable to work with reputable translators or translation agencies familiar with USCIS standards to ensure compliance.
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