Are you putting together an immigration file? Then you need a certified translation for USCIS for every document that is not in English. In this guide, we list the most common documents by case type, so you know exactly what to translate.
The basic rule for certified translation for USCIS
The rule is simple. In short, any foreign-language document you submit must include a full English translation and a signed translator certificate. For the official wording, see 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3).
Family-based green card cases
In general, family cases prove a relationship. For example, you may need:
- Birth certificates for you and your children.
- Marriage certificates for spouse petitions.
- Divorce decrees and death certificates that end earlier marriages.
- Adoption papers, if they apply.
Citizenship and naturalization
Similarly, for citizenship, USCIS may ask for proof of identity, marriage and residence. Also, it may ask for court and police records. So, translate any foreign document you plan to include.
Certified translation for USCIS work and student visas
- Diplomas and transcripts. See our academic document translation page.
- Experience letters and job contracts.
- Bank statements that show financial support.
Supporting documents that need certified translation for USCIS
However, several documents are easy to miss. For instance:
- First, police clearance certificates from each country you lived in.
- Next, name change records.
- Then, the back pages of certificates with stamps or notes.
- Finally, tax and bank records used for an affidavit of support.
Certified translation for USCIS: checklist by case type
| Case type | Common documents to translate |
|---|---|
| Spouse green card | Marriage and birth certificates, divorce decrees |
| Parent or child petition | Birth certificates, adoption papers |
| Citizenship | Marriage, divorce and court records |
| Work or student visa | Diplomas, transcripts, bank statements |
How to get a certified translation for USCIS
- First, gather every foreign-language page.
- Next, upload them together on our Order Now page.
- Then, check names against your passport.
- Finally, file each translation with a copy of the original.
Every USCIS certified translation from Crown Translate starts at $20 per page and includes our acceptance guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
Does every foreign document need a translation?
Yes. Any document you submit that is not in English needs a full certified English translation.
Do I translate documents that are partly in English?
Yes. If any part of the page is in another language, that part must be translated too.
Do passports need a translation?
Only the parts that are not in English. However, many passports already include English, so check each page.
Can one translator handle all my documents?
Yes. In fact, using one service for the whole set keeps names and dates consistent.
Translate your whole USCIS file
Certified translation from $20 per page, with a USCIS acceptance guarantee. Or call toll-free +1-800-901-0168.