When applying for a U.S. green card or visa, you may need to submit documents that aren’t in English. In these cases, the U.S. government requires you to provide a certified translation. This article will guide you through the process of getting and submitting certified translations for your immigration documents.
What Documents Need to be Translated into English?
Any document required for a U.S. green card or visa application that isn’t in English must be translated. This includes documents for both the applicant and their sponsoring relative. Some common documents that need translation include:
- Birth certificates (most common document)
- Marriage certificates
- Divorce papers (if you were previously married)
- Police records
- Bank statements
Note: You don’t need to translate your passport. If you’re unsure whether a document needs translation, check the Reciprocity Schedule for your specific country.
Who Can Translate Your Documents?
The person translating your document must be competent in both English and the original language of the document (e.g., Mandarin, Spanish). While immigration law allows you or your relative to act as your translator, the decision to accept a translation is ultimately up to the immigration officer.
For added accuracy and to avoid delays, it’s often better to use a professional translation service or a knowledgeable friend or family member. Some U.S. Embassies and consulates, like the one in Athens, Greece, only accept translations from specific agencies, such as the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Always check your local embassy’s requirements.
How Much Does a Translation Cost?
Translation costs vary depending on the service provider, location, and document complexity. In the U.S., professional translation services typically charge $20-40 per page.
What Does “Certified” Mean?
A “certified” translation does not require the translator to be a licensed professional but must meet specific standards. The translator must provide a formal letter certifying that they are qualified to translate and that the translation is accurate.
The certification letter should include the following details:
- Translator’s full name
- Translator’s address
- Signature
- Date
Here’s an example of a certification letter:
Certification by Translator
I, [full name], certify that I am fluent in both English and [foreign language] and that the attached document is a true and accurate translation of the document titled [name of document].
Signature
[Date]
[Translator’s Full Name]
[Translator’s Address]
Make sure to submit this certification letter along with your translations and photocopies of the original documents.
Special Situations
What if You Have an Abbreviated Version of a Document?
In some countries, official documents may be issued as “extracts,” which are abbreviated versions of the full document. The U.S. government will accept these extract versions as long as they are official and contain all necessary information. For example, an acceptable birth certificate extract will list both parents’ names, while an incomplete version listing only the applicant’s name may be rejected. Ensure that the translator faithfully translates all parts of the document, even if it’s an extract.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Translations Need to be Typed or Can They Be Handwritten?
The translation must be typed. The certification letter can be handwritten, but it’s best to type it to avoid delays due to poor-quality documents.
Does the Translation Need to Be Notarized?
No, the translation does not need to be notarized. The certification letter is all that is required.
When Should Translations Be Submitted?
Translations are typically submitted as part of the initial green card or visa application. However, if the government requests additional information through a Request for Evidence (RFE), you may need to submit your translations at a later stage. You’ll also need to bring original documents, including translations, to your green card interview.
By following these guidelines for translating your immigration documents into English, you’ll ensure your green card or visa application process goes as smoothly as possible. Be sure to provide accurate translations and the required certification to avoid delays and complications.
