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What to Know about USCIS Translation Guidelines

Written by Nate Webber

Idiomatic USA Chief Content Officer

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Understanding the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) translation guidelines is crucial for anyone submitting documents in a language other than English. These guidelines ensure that all documents are accurately translated and meet the standards required by USCIS.

Complete Translation: USCIS mandates that all documents submitted in support of an application or petition must be fully translated into English. This means every part of the document, including not just the main text but also any seals, stamps, signatures, and notations, should be accurately translated.
Certification by the Translator: The translator must provide a certification statement. This statement asserts that the translator is competent to translate from the original language to English and that the translation is complete and accurate. The certification does not necessarily require the translator to be officially certified; however, they must attest to their qualifications.
No Self-Translation: If the applicant is fluent in both languages, they are still discouraged from translating their own documents. The USCIS prefers translations done by someone other than the applicant to ensure objectivity and accuracy.
Professional Translation Services: While using professional translation services is not a mandatory requirement, it is often advisable. Professional translators are more likely to understand the nuances and specific requirements of legal documents, ensuring compliance with USCIS standards.
Consistency in Names and Dates: It's vital to maintain consistency in the translation, especially with names and dates. Variations can cause confusion and may lead to delays in processing.
Avoiding Unofficial Translations: Machine translations or unofficial translations are generally not acceptable for USCIS purposes. It's important to use a translator who understands the document's context and legal terminology.
Adhering to Specific Requirements for Certain Documents: Some documents may have additional specific requirements. It’s advisable to check if there are any unique guidelines for the type of document being translated.