Certified Translation FAQ

American Translations and Interpreting Services provides certified translation services for immigration, universities, credential evaluations, and official documents. Below are answers to the most common questions about certified translation, USCIS translations, diploma translation, transcript translation, and official document translation.

What is a certified translation? +

A certified translation is a translated document accompanied by a signed statement confirming that the translation is complete and accurate. The certification also confirms that the translator is fluent in both the source language and English.

American Translations and Interpreting Services prepares certified translations for immigration applications, universities, licensing boards, and other official purposes.

What does certified translation mean? +

Certified translation means that a translator or translation company confirms the accuracy and completeness of a translation through a signed certification statement.

At American Translations and Interpreting Services, each certified translation includes a certification confirming the translation accurately reflects the original document.

Who can provide a certified translation? +

In the United States, certified translations can be provided by qualified translators or professional translation companies.

American Translations and Interpreting Services works with experienced translators fluent in both languages who certify the accuracy of the translation.

Is a certified translation the same as a notarized translation? +

No. A certified translation includes a certification statement signed by the translator confirming accuracy.

A notarized translation simply means a notary public verifies the identity of the person signing the certification. The notary does not review the translation itself.

If notarization is required, American Translations and Interpreting Services can arrange it when requested in advance.

When do I need a certified translation? +

Certified translations are usually required when submitting foreign-language documents to institutions that require English documentation.

Examples include immigration filings, university admissions, academic credential evaluations, and legal documentation.

Who accepts certified translations? +

Certified translations are commonly accepted by:

Government agencies
Universities
Credential evaluation agencies
Licensing boards
Legal institutions
Employers

Are certified translations required for immigration? +

Yes. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services requires certified translations when submitting foreign-language documents.

You can review the official USCIS translation guidance here: USCIS translation requirements

Do certified translations expire? +

Certified translations generally do not expire. However, some institutions may require recently issued source documents depending on their policies.

Why should I use American Translations and Interpreting Services? +

American Translations and Interpreting Services prepares certified translations for immigration, universities, licensing boards, and official institutions across the United States.

Our office is located at 1750 Howe Ave, Sacramento, CA, and we also serve customers nationwide online.

Immigration Translation FAQ

American Translations and Interpreting Services provides certified translations for immigration applications, USCIS filings, and official immigration documents. Below are common questions about USCIS translation requirements, immigration document translation, and how certified translations are prepared for immigration cases.

26. Do immigration documents need to be translated into English? +

Yes. U.S. immigration authorities require that all documents submitted in a foreign language include a full English translation.

According to the official USCIS translation guidance, the translation must include a certification confirming that the translator is competent in both languages.

Source: USCIS Translation Requirements

American Translations and Interpreting Services regularly prepares certified translations for immigration applications and USCIS submissions.

27. Are certified translations accepted by USCIS? +

Yes. USCIS accepts certified translations when they include a certification confirming that the translation is accurate and complete.

American Translations and Interpreting Services provides certified translations that meet USCIS requirements.

Learn more about our immigration translations here: USCIS Translation Services

28. Does USCIS require notarized translations? +

No. USCIS requires certified translations but does not require notarization.

However, if another institution requests notarization, please inform American Translations and Interpreting Services in advance so we can arrange it.

Source: USCIS Official Guidance

29. What immigration documents usually require translation? +

Common immigration documents include:

  • Birth certificates
  • Marriage certificates
  • Divorce decrees
  • Police records
  • Passports
  • National identification cards
  • Court documents

American Translations and Interpreting Services frequently translates these documents for immigration applications.

30. Can I translate my own documents for USCIS? +

USCIS requires that the translation include a certification confirming that the translator is fluent in both languages and that the translation is accurate.

Many applicants choose professional services like American Translations and Interpreting Services to ensure the translation meets immigration requirements.

31. Can a family member translate immigration documents? +

While USCIS does not specifically forbid family members from translating documents, the translation must include a certification confirming that the translator is competent in both languages.

Using a professional translation service such as American Translations and Interpreting Services helps ensure accuracy and compliance.

32. What is the USCIS translation certification statement? +

A USCIS translation certification usually confirms that:

  • The translator is fluent in both languages
  • The translation is complete and accurate
  • The translator provides their name, signature, and date

American Translations and Interpreting Services includes this certification with each translation.

33. Do immigration forms themselves need translation? +

No. USCIS forms are already available in English. However, supporting documents issued in other languages must be translated.

34. Can translations be submitted as digital copies? +

Yes. Immigration applications often include scanned copies of certified translations.

American Translations and Interpreting Services typically delivers translations as digital PDF documents for easy submission.

35. Do immigration translations need to match the original document exactly? +

Yes. The translation should accurately reflect the content of the original document.

Professional translators working with American Translations and Interpreting Services translate documents carefully to ensure accuracy.

36. Can handwritten immigration documents be translated? +

Yes. Handwritten documents can be translated if the handwriting is clear and readable.

If any part of the document is unclear, American Translations and Interpreting Services may request clarification.

37. How long does immigration translation take? +

Turnaround time depends on the number of pages and complexity of the document.

Most immigration documents such as birth certificates or marriage certificates can be translated within one to two business days.

38. Can immigration translations be completed urgently? +

Yes. Many immigration documents can be translated quickly depending on translator availability.

If you have an urgent deadline, please inform American Translations and Interpreting Services when submitting your document.

39. Can birth certificates be translated for immigration? +

Yes. Birth certificates are one of the most common documents translated for immigration purposes.

American Translations and Interpreting Services regularly translates birth certificates for USCIS applications.

40. Can marriage certificates be translated for immigration? +

Yes. Marriage certificates are frequently required for immigration petitions and must be translated if they are not in English.

41. Can divorce documents be translated for immigration? +

Yes. Divorce decrees and other court documents may be required when submitting immigration applications.

American Translations and Interpreting Services can translate these documents.

42. Do passport pages need to be translated? +

Some immigration applications require translation of passport pages containing personal information.

These pages can be translated by American Translations and Interpreting Services.

43. Can immigration documents be translated from photos? +

Yes. Clear photos or scans are usually acceptable for translation.

Make sure the document is fully visible and readable before submitting it.

44. Do immigration translations need to include stamps and seals? +

Yes. Official stamps and seals appearing on the original document should be reflected in the translation.

Professional translators working with American Translations and Interpreting Services include notes describing these elements.

45. Can immigration translations be rejected? +

Yes. Translations may be rejected if they are incomplete or missing the certification statement.

Using American Translations and Interpreting Services helps reduce the risk of rejection.

46. Do immigration officers verify translations? +

Immigration officers may review translations to ensure they are complete and certified.

Accurate translations prepared by American Translations and Interpreting Services help ensure documents meet immigration requirements.

47. Are immigration translations confidential? +

Yes. Immigration documents often contain sensitive personal information.

American Translations and Interpreting Services treats all documents as confidential.

48. Can immigration translations be mailed or emailed? +

Yes. Translations are usually delivered as digital PDF files by email.

Printed copies can also be mailed when requested.

49. Can translations be used for green card applications? +

Yes. Certified translations are commonly required for green card applications when documents are written in another language.

50. How do I request an immigration translation? +

You can upload your document through our website for review.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will confirm the price and turnaround time before starting the translation.

Request a quote here: Get a Translation Quote

Academic and Diploma Translation FAQ

American Translations and Interpreting Services provides certified translations for academic records, diplomas, transcripts, and other education documents required for university admissions, credential evaluation, and professional licensing.

51. Do academic documents need to be translated into English? +

Yes. Universities and credential evaluation agencies usually require academic documents to be translated into English if the original documents are issued in another language.

American Translations and Interpreting Services provides certified translations for academic documents used in university admissions and credential evaluations.

52. What academic documents usually require translation? +

Common academic documents include:

  • Diplomas
  • Academic transcripts
  • Certificates of graduation
  • Enrollment records
  • Academic certificates

American Translations and Interpreting Services frequently translates these documents for students applying to universities and licensing boards.

53. Can diplomas be translated for university applications? +

Yes. Many universities require certified translations of diplomas when the original documents are issued in another language.

American Translations and Interpreting Services provides diploma translations for students applying to universities in the United States and abroad.

54. Can academic transcripts be translated? +

Yes. Academic transcripts are commonly translated for university admission, professional licensing, and credential evaluation.

55. Do universities require certified translations? +

Many universities require certified translations to ensure that academic documents are accurately translated.

Certified translations from American Translations and Interpreting Services include a certification confirming the accuracy of the translation.

56. Can translations be used for credential evaluation? +

Yes. Credential evaluation agencies often require certified translations of academic documents before evaluating them.

Common credential evaluation organizations include:

World Education Services (WES)
Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)
International Education Research Foundation (IERF)

57. What is a credential evaluation? +

A credential evaluation is a process used to determine how foreign academic qualifications compare to education standards in another country.

Certified translations are often required before the evaluation can be completed.

58. Do WES evaluations require translated documents? +

Yes. World Education Services requires English translations of documents that are not originally issued in English.

Source: WES Official Website

59. Do ECE evaluations require translations? +

Yes. Educational Credential Evaluators may require certified translations of academic documents if they are not in English.

Source: ECE Official Website

60. Do IERF evaluations require translations? +

Yes. The International Education Research Foundation requires English translations when academic documents are issued in other languages.

Source: IERF Official Website

61. Can student certificates be translated? +

Yes. Certificates issued by schools or universities can be translated when required for academic or professional purposes.

62. Can school records be translated? +

Yes. School records such as report cards, enrollment letters, and academic certificates can be translated by American Translations and Interpreting Services.

63. Do universities accept digital translations? +

Yes. Many universities accept digital copies of certified translations submitted through online application systems.

64. Do translated transcripts need certification? +

Yes. Academic transcripts submitted to universities or credential evaluation agencies often require certified translations.

65. Can academic documents be translated from photos? +

Yes. Clear photos or scans are usually acceptable for translation as long as the document is readable.

66. How long does diploma translation take? +

Most diploma translations can be completed within one to two business days depending on the document length.

67. Can diploma translations be completed urgently? +

Yes. Short academic documents such as diplomas can often be translated quickly depending on translator availability.

If you have a deadline, please inform American Translations and Interpreting Services when submitting your documents.

68. Do translated academic documents include certification? +

Yes. Certified translations include a certification statement confirming that the translation is accurate and complete.

69. Can translated academic documents be used for licensing boards? +

Yes. Many professional licensing boards require certified translations of academic records.

Examples include licensing boards for engineering, medicine, construction, and education.

70. How do I request an academic translation? +

You can submit your academic documents through our website for review.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will review the documents and confirm the price and turnaround time before starting the translation.

Request a quote here:
Get a Translation Quote

Pricing and Turnaround FAQ

American Translations and Interpreting Services provides clear pricing and turnaround information for certified translation services, including immigration document translation, diploma translation, transcript translation, and other official document translation requests. This section answers common questions about costs, page pricing, rush service, certification, delivery, and how to start an order. For full details, you can also review our pricing page or submit documents through our quote request form.

71. How much does certified translation cost? +

The cost of certified translation usually depends on the number of pages and the language pair.

Most standard documents such as birth certificates, diplomas, and marriage certificates are priced per page.

You can view our pricing page here:
Certified Translation Rates

72. Do you charge per page or per word? +

Many official documents are priced per page because they contain fixed formats and structured information.

American Translations and Interpreting Services usually prices standard documents per page. This is common for certified translations of birth certificates, diplomas, marriage certificates, and similar official records.

73. What is considered one page for translation? +

A page usually refers to a document page containing up to approximately 250 words or a standard official document such as a birth certificate or diploma.

If a file is unusually dense or contains multiple records on one page, American Translations and Interpreting Services reviews it first and confirms the price before starting the translation.

74. Do translation prices depend on the language? +

Yes. Translation costs can vary depending on the language pair because some languages require specialized translators.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will review your document and confirm the price before beginning the translation.

75. Do you provide a quote before starting the translation? +

Yes. We review the document first and confirm the total cost before beginning the translation.

You can request a quote here:
Get a Translation Quote

76. Is there a minimum fee for translation? +

Some translation projects may have a minimum fee depending on the document type and length.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will confirm pricing after reviewing your document so you know the cost before work begins.

77. How long does certified translation usually take? +

Most standard documents can be translated within one to two business days.

Larger documents may require additional time depending on the number of pages, formatting, and language pair.

78. Can translations be completed the same day? +

Yes. Short documents may sometimes be translated the same day depending on translator availability.

If you need urgent service, please inform American Translations and Interpreting Services when submitting your document so we can check rush availability in advance.

79. Do you offer rush translation services? +

Yes. Rush translation services may be available for urgent requests.

Rush availability depends on document length, document type, language pair, and translator availability at the time of the request.

80. Does faster service cost more? +

In some cases, rush services may involve an additional fee because translators must prioritize the project.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will inform you of any rush service fees before beginning the translation.

81. How long does it take to receive a translation quote? +

In many cases, translation quotes can be provided quickly after reviewing the document.

You can submit your document for review here:
Request a Quote

82. Do translation costs include certification? +

Yes. Certified translations from American Translations and Interpreting Services include the certification statement confirming the accuracy of the translation.

This helps clients ordering certified translation services for immigration, academic, licensing, and other official submissions.

83. Is notarization included in the translation price? +

Notarization is usually not required for most certified translations.

If notarization is required, please inform American Translations and Interpreting Services in advance so we can arrange it and confirm any related fee separately before starting the project.

For example, USCIS requires certified translations, but it does not state that notarization is required for foreign-language documents submitted with immigration applications.

84. Can translation costs change after the quote? +

No. Once the document is reviewed and the price is confirmed, the cost normally remains the same unless additional documents are added or the scope of the order changes.

85. Do large documents cost more to translate? +

Yes. Translation cost usually increases based on the number of pages or word count.

Longer documents, multi-page records, or complex files usually require more time and therefore may cost more than short standard documents.

86. Are discounts available for multiple documents? +

In some cases, pricing may vary depending on the number of documents submitted.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will review the documents and confirm pricing before the order begins.

87. Do translation prices include proofreading? +

Yes. Professional translations are typically reviewed before delivery to help ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness.

American Translations and Interpreting Services reviews translations carefully before sending the final files to the client.

88. How will I receive the completed translation? +

Most translations are delivered as a digital PDF for easy submission to institutions.

Printed copies may also be provided when requested. You can learn more about our company and services on the American Translations and Interpreting Services homepage.

89. Do printed copies cost extra? +

Printed copies may involve additional shipping or printing costs depending on the request.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will confirm any extra cost in advance so there are no surprises.

90. How do I start a translation order? +

You can upload your document through our website so we can review it and provide a quote.

Request a quote here:
Get a Translation Quote

You may also review our pricing page or learn more about our certified translation services before submitting your files.

Document Handling and Submission FAQ

American Translations and Interpreting Services makes it easy to submit documents for certified translation, immigration document translation, diploma translation, transcript translation, and other official document translation services. This section answers common questions about file formats, scans, photos, handwritten records, confidentiality, draft review, and how to start your order. You can submit your files through our Get a Quote page or learn more about our certified translation services.

91. How can I send my documents for translation? +

You can send your documents by uploading them through our website or by sending a clear scan or photo.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will review the document and confirm the price and turnaround time before starting the translation.

Request a quote here:
Get a Translation Quote

92. Can I send photos of my documents? +

Yes. Clear photos are usually acceptable for translation as long as all text is visible and readable.

If the image quality is not sufficient, American Translations and Interpreting Services may request a clearer photo so the translation can be completed accurately.

93. Do you need the original document? +

In most cases, the original document is not required.

A clear scan or photo of the document is usually enough for translation, which makes the process faster and easier for clients anywhere in the United States.

94. What file formats can I send? +

Documents can usually be submitted in common formats such as:

  • PDF
  • JPEG
  • PNG
  • Scanned documents

If you are not sure whether your file format will work, American Translations and Interpreting Services can review it before the project begins.

95. Can you translate handwritten documents? +

Yes. Handwritten documents can be translated if the handwriting is clear and readable.

If any part of the document is unclear, American Translations and Interpreting Services may ask for clarification or a better image before finalizing the translation.

96. Do you translate documents with stamps and seals? +

Yes. Official stamps and seals appearing on the document are typically reflected in the translation.

These elements may be described within the translated document so the translation more accurately reflects the original record. This is common in certified translation work for immigration, academic, and legal submissions.

97. Can damaged or old documents be translated? +

Yes. Many official documents are old, faded, or worn but can still be translated as long as the text is readable.

If the file is difficult to read, American Translations and Interpreting Services may ask for a better scan or photo to improve accuracy.

98. Do you translate both sides of documents? +

Yes. If a document contains information on both sides, both sides should be translated.

This is common with ID cards, driver’s licenses, residence permits, and similar official records. If your translation is for government use, it is always wise to include all visible information so the receiving institution can review the full document.

99. Can you translate partial documents? +

Yes. Partial documents can be translated if only certain sections are required.

However, some institutions require the entire document to be translated. If your translation is for USCIS, a university, or a credential evaluation agency, it is best to check that institution’s requirements first.

100. Are my documents kept confidential? +

Yes. American Translations and Interpreting Services treats all documents as confidential.

Your documents are only shared with the translator assigned to your project when necessary for translation and review.

101. Will my documents be stored after translation? +

Documents may be stored temporarily for processing purposes.

If you have specific concerns about document storage, retention, or handling, please contact American Translations and Interpreting Services before submitting sensitive records so we can address your questions directly.

102. Can I review the translation before the final version? +

Yes. In many cases, a draft translation may be provided so you can review important details such as names, dates, and document numbers.

This is especially helpful for certified translations involving immigration documents, diplomas, transcripts, and identity documents.

103. Can corrections be made after the draft is reviewed? +

Yes. If any corrections are needed, American Translations and Interpreting Services will update the translation before issuing the final certified version.

This helps make sure the final document reflects the original record as accurately as possible.

104. What if my document has multiple languages? +

Documents containing multiple languages can still be translated.

The translator will identify the relevant sections and translate them accordingly. This is common with immigration, academic, and civil records issued by multilingual institutions or government offices.

105. How do I start the translation process? +

You can start by submitting your document through our website.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will review the document and confirm the price and turnaround time before beginning the translation.

Request a quote here:
Get a Translation Quote

You may also review our pricing page or visit the American Translations and Interpreting Services homepage for more information.

Payment, Delivery, and Location FAQ

American Translations and Interpreting Services offers flexible payment options, digital delivery, printed certified copies, and local pickup arrangements for customers in Sacramento and throughout the United States. This section answers common questions about how to pay, when payment is due, how translations are delivered, and how to place an order with American Translations and Interpreting Services. You can request service through our Get a Quote page, make payment on our payment page, or visit the American Translations and Interpreting Services homepage for more information.

106. How can I pay for translation services? +

Customers can pay for translation services using several methods.

American Translations and Interpreting Services accepts payments through credit or debit cards on our website, Zelle transfers, and cash for in-person pickup.

Payment page:
Pay for Translation Services

107. When do I need to pay for the translation? +

Payment is usually required before the final certified translation is delivered.

In some cases, customers may pay online before the translation begins or when picking up their documents, depending on the arrangement.

108. Can I pay in cash? +

Yes. Cash payments may be accepted for in-person pickup arrangements.

If you prefer to pay in cash, please let American Translations and Interpreting Services know in advance so the pickup can be arranged properly.

109. Can I pay online? +

Yes. You can make payments through our secure payment page.

Payment page:
Online Payment Page

110. Do you accept Zelle payments? +

Yes. Zelle payments are accepted by American Translations and Interpreting Services for translation services.

If you prefer to pay by Zelle, please mention that when confirming your order so payment instructions can be shared with you.

111. How will I receive my completed translation? +

Most translations are delivered as digital PDF files that can easily be submitted to institutions such as immigration offices, universities, and licensing boards.

This makes the process fast and convenient for customers ordering certified translation services from anywhere in the United States.

112. Can I receive printed copies of my translation? +

Yes. Printed certified copies can be provided if requested.

If you need printed copies, please inform American Translations and Interpreting Services when placing your order so we can prepare the delivery or pickup arrangement.

113. Do you mail translated documents? +

Yes. Printed copies of certified translations can be mailed when requested.

Delivery arrangements can be discussed when placing the order. Many clients still prefer digital PDF delivery because it is fast and convenient, but mailed copies are available when needed.

114. Where is American Translations and Interpreting Services located? +

American Translations and Interpreting Services is based in Sacramento, California.

Our services are available nationwide because most translations are delivered digitally.

You can learn more here:
American Translations and Interpreting Services Homepage

115. Do you serve customers outside Sacramento? +

Yes. American Translations and Interpreting Services provides certified translation services to customers throughout the United States.

Documents can be submitted online and delivered digitally, which allows clients in many locations to use our services without visiting the office.

116. Do I need to visit your office to order a translation? +

No. Most customers submit their documents online.

However, in-person arrangements are available at our Main Office at 1750 Howe Ave, STE 300 Office 314, Sacramento, CA 95825. Please give us a call at 916 214 3963 if you need to visit us.

Most clients still find it easiest to upload documents through our quote request form.

117. Can I pick up my documents in person? +

Yes. In-person pickup may be available depending on the arrangement.

Please contact American Translations and Interpreting Services in advance if you prefer in-person pickup so the time and location can be confirmed.

118. Do you offer curbside pickup? +

Yes. American Translations and Interpreting Services offers curbside pickup arrangements for customers who prefer to collect their documents locally.

Please mention that you want curbside pickup when placing the order so we can confirm the details.

119. Can you send translations by email? +

Yes. Most translations are delivered electronically as PDF files so they can be easily submitted to institutions.

Email delivery is the most common option for USCIS translations, academic translation, diploma translation, transcript translation, and other official document translation services.

120. How can I request a translation quote? +

You can request a translation quote by submitting your document through our website.

American Translations and Interpreting Services will review the document and confirm the price and turnaround time.

Request a quote here:
Get a Translation Quote

You may also visit our pricing page or make payment later through our payment page.