Immigration2026-03-16 - 5 min read

How to Get Certified Translations for USCIS

USCIS requires certified English translations for all foreign-language documents. Learn requirements, costs, and how to get translations accepted.

USCIS Translation Requirements

USCIS requires that any document not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation. The translation must include a certification by the translator stating that:

  • The translation is accurate and complete
  • The translator is competent to translate from the source language to English
  • What 'Certified' Means

    A certified translation is NOT the same as a notarized translation. USCIS requires:

  • A complete, accurate translation of the original document
  • A signed certificate of accuracy by the translator
  • The translator's name, signature, address, and date
  • You do NOT need a sworn translator, a notary, or an apostille on the translation itself (though the underlying document may need those).

    Common Documents Needing Translation

  • Birth certificates (most common)
  • Marriage certificates
  • Divorce decrees
  • Police clearance certificates
  • Academic transcripts and diplomas
  • Military service records
  • Bank statements
  • Employment letters
  • Medical records
  • ClosingIQ Translation Service

  • 189 languages supported
  • Certified translations accepted by USCIS
  • Preserves original document formatting
  • Starting at $0.10 per word ($15-30 for a typical document)
  • Standard turnaround: 24-48 hours
  • Rush (same day): +50%
  • Translation + Notarization + Apostille

    For international use, you may need all three:

  • Translate the document to English
  • Notarize the translation (some countries require this)
  • Apostille for international recognition
  • ClosingIQ handles all three in one platform.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does USCIS accept machine translations?

    USCIS does not specifically prohibit machine translations, but requires a human certifier to attest to accuracy. ClosingIQ uses AI-assisted translation with human review and certification.

    How much does a certified translation cost?

    ClosingIQ charges $0.10 per word. A typical 5-page birth certificate costs $15-30. Pro subscribers get 10% off.

    How long does translation take?

    Standard: 24-48 hours. Rush (same day): available for +50%. Translation is delivered as a PDF with the original formatting preserved.

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