When applying for visas, green cards, asylum or other immigration benefits, any document not originally in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. These documents may include birth certificates, marriage certificates, bank statements, financial affidavits, adoption or custody records.
USCIS and immigration courts require accurate and complete certified translations to process your case. Mistakes or missing certifications can lead to delays or even denial of your application.
While it may be tempting to translate these materials yourself, official filings must be accompanied by a signed certification from someone competent in both languages. This statement confirms that the translation is complete and accurate.
“Translations must include a certificate of translation. The certification should be by someone other than the immigrant themself. A copy of the original must be included as well,” said Hasan Shafiqullah, Immigration Supervising Attorney at the Legal Aid Society.
See a sample of a certificate of translation here.
Shafiqullah further said that any document filed with USCIS, another immigration agency or immigration court, must include a certified English translation if it was not originally written in English. However, if the document is bilingual — such as many passports that include both the native language and English — no translation is required.
Why certified translations matter
Certified translations are not just a formality. They ensure immigration officers and judges fully understand the documents you submit, from birth certificates to medical records. Incomplete or poorly translated documents can raise questions about credibility and slow down your application.
Mistakes to avoid and precautions before submission
- Submitting translations without a signed certification
- Omitting stamps, seals, or official markings
- Translating only part of a document
- Relying on Google Translate or automated tools
Before you send off the translation, ask the translator to double-check it for accuracy and completeness. Ensure the translator’s certification is signed and dated, and organize copies of the translations with originals for your records.
Hiring a professional translator
While we provide a list of organizations that offer free translation services below, applicants may decide to hire a paid certified translator.
We suggest you to follow these steps to make sure your translator is legitimate:
- Make sure the translator is certified, such as through the American Translators Association (ATA), or has recognized qualifications. The ATA maintains a directory of certified translators searchable by language pair and location. There is no official “USCIS translator” accreditation, even though some professionals may advertise otherwise.
- Ask if they have translated immigration documents before. Experienced translators know the proper format for certifications.
- The translator must provide a statement saying the translation is complete and accurate. It should include their name, signature, contact information, date, and a description of the translated document.
If you do decide to pay a translator, shop around. Rates can vary wildly with professional translators charging from $0.02 cents per word to hundreds of dollars per page, Shafiqullah said.
Can a family member translate my documents?
Yes. USCIS allows anyone fluent in both languages to provide a certified translation, including family members. The translator just needs to include the required certification statement with their name, signature, and contact information.
“Ideally that family member should have lawful immigration status,” said Shafiqullah. “Although that’s not a requirement, it would be ill-advised for them to bring themself to the attention of USCIS or the immigration court if they don’t have lawful status.”
Organizations that provide free document translation
Refugee Translation Project (RTP)
RTP offers free document translation and interpretation for immigrants and asylum seekers whose costs are not covered by another organization. These services help families and individuals access the immigration process, benefits and essential services.
RTP translates personal statements, medical records, identity papers, court and police documents, letters, financial records, news articles, and other evidence needed for asylum or resettlement. They also provide in-person and remote interpretation by phone or video, both in the U.S. and abroad.
Email: info@refugeetranslation.org
Request form: refugeetranslation.org/request-help
Haitian Americans United for Progress, Inc. (HAUP)
HAUP provides certified translation services for documents such as birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, and school transcripts from Creole and French into English. Services are available at offices in Queens, and Brooklyn, with convenient drop-off options at both locations.
HAUP also offers immigration legal counseling, ESL classes, and notary public services. These programs support the Haitian community and other immigrants.
Address (main office): 197‑17 Hillside Avenue, Hollis, NY 11423
Phone: (718) 527‑3776
Email: info@haupinc.org
Address (Brooklyn office): 1760 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11226
Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Phone: (718) 233-1186
Email: Info@haupinc.org
