Understanding USCIS translation requirements

Immigration applications often depend on official records issued outside the United States. When those records are not in English, USCIS generally expects a complete English translation and a signed certification from the translator. The goal is straightforward: the reviewing officer should be able to understand the document in English and see a clear statement from the translator confirming competence and accuracy.

A strong USCIS translation is not about fancy wording. It is about correctness, completeness, and consistency. Clear formatting helps the document read smoothly, and consistent handling of names, dates, and document numbers helps avoid unnecessary questions.

What USCIS generally expects

USCIS guidance commonly referenced for translations indicates that a foreign-language document submitted to USCIS should be accompanied by:

• A complete English translation (not a summary)
• A signed certification statement from the translator
• A statement of competency confirming the translator can translate from the source language into English

What “complete” usually means

Complete translations typically include all visible text elements, not only the main paragraph. Many civil documents contain stamps, seals, registration details, handwritten entries, and small printed fields. When these elements contain names, dates, or official identifiers, including them supports clarity.

What “accurate” usually means

Accurate translations reflect the meaning of the original document without rewriting or changing facts. Names, dates, and document numbers are handled carefully. If the same person appears in multiple records, spelling and formatting should remain consistent across the full set of translations.

Common USCIS filings where translations come up

Certified translations are commonly used as supporting evidence for many USCIS filings. Examples include:

• Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
• Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
• Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
• Form I-765 (Employment Authorization)
• Form I-589 (Asylum)
• Form N-600 (Certificate of Citizenship)

Your specific document needs depend on your case and the evidence you include. When in doubt, it is often safer to translate documents that are part of the submission package and contain official entries.

Documents commonly translated for immigration

ATIS frequently translates a wide range of civil and official documents for immigration-related use. Common examples include:

The best approach is to treat each document as evidence: the translation should be easy to review and clearly connected to the original record.

What you receive from ATIS

Our certified translation package is designed for clarity and submission-readiness. It typically includes:

• A complete English translation of the document
• A signed certification statement confirming completeness, accuracy, and translator competency
• Company contact details included with the certification
• Clean formatting that makes the document easy to read

In many USCIS filings, notarization is not required. A properly prepared certification statement is typically sufficient unless specific instructions state otherwise.

For general information about certified translation services beyond immigration, you can also review: Certified Translation Services.

How the process works

Most clients complete everything remotely. The goal is a smooth, simple workflow that results in a certified PDF you can submit or keep for your records.

1. Request a quote: Submit your documents using Get a Quote.
2. Review for clarity: We confirm pages are readable and complete so the translation can be prepared accurately.
3. Translation: A qualified translator prepares the English translation with attention to completeness and consistent details.
4. Quality check: Key items like names, dates, and document numbers are reviewed for consistency.
5. Certification and delivery: We provide the certified translation as a digital PDF.

For pricing, please see: Our Rates.

How to avoid common translation-related delays

Many problems are preventable when translations are prepared carefully and scans are clear. Here are common issues that can slow down review:

• Missing pages: Submitting a multi-page record with only page one translated.
• Cropped margins: Missing stamps, seals, or edge text that contains identifying details.
• Skipped visible text: Not translating small fields, notes, or official markings.
• Inconsistent names: Different spelling of the same person across documents.
• Unclear layout: A translation that is hard to match to the original document.

A USCIS translation should feel easy to review. A clean translation with a proper certification statement can reduce confusion and support a smoother submission.