USCIS translation guide
What USCIS usually expects from translated foreign-language documents.
If you submit a document in another language, USCIS generally requires a full English translation plus certification from the translator that the translation is complete, accurate and that the translator is competent to translate.
Common documents
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, police records, passports and academic records commonly need translation when they are not in English.
Certified translation
The key point is certification, not “USCIS approval.” The translation should be complete, accurate and accompanied by the certification statement.
Notarization
Notarization is a different service and is not usually the default USCIS requirement. Ask for it only if your specific receiving authority needs it.
Where to verify
Use the official USCIS form instructions as the final source. Requirements can vary by form, process or the exact supporting document requested.
Questions people ask before ordering
What does USCIS require for foreign-language documents?
USCIS requires a full English translation plus certification from the translator that the translation is complete, accurate and that the translator is competent to translate.
Does USCIS require notarization?
Not usually. The standard USCIS requirement is certified translation, not notarization, unless a specific receiving authority separately asks for something more.
Which documents commonly need translation for USCIS?
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, police records, passports, academic records and civil registry documents commonly need translation when they are not in English.
Where should I verify the rule for my form?
Always review the official USCIS form instructions for the petition or application you are filing. That is the best source for the latest document and translation requirements.
Next step
If you already have the document, the fastest move is to upload it.
You can leave notes about the USCIS form or the purpose of the translation directly in the order form.