USCIS TRANSLATION REQUIREMENTS
USCIS Translation Requirements (2026): The Complete Guide
USCIS requires a complete English translation of every foreign-language document, plus a signed certification that the translation is accurate and the translator is competent (8 CFR 103.2(b)(3)). No notarization, no government-appointed translator, and no machine translation. Here is the full rule, who may translate, and a certification statement you can use.
Updated July 11, 2026 · Reviewed by Victor Luján, Founder — certified translations since 2018 · Guidance, not legal advice.
The Rule: 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3)
The regulation states that any foreign-language document must be accompanied by a full English translation which the translator certifies as complete and accurate, together with the translator's certification that they are competent to translate from the foreign language into English. That is the entire requirement — a complete translation and a signed certification.
What a Compliant Translation Includes (and best practices officers appreciate)
- A complete translation of everything on the document — including seals, stamps, and marginal notes
- Layout that mirrors the original so an officer can compare them side by side (best practice, not required by the regulation)
- A signed Certificate of Accuracy with the translator's name, signature, and date
- Illegible sections marked “[illegible]” rather than guessed (best practice, not required by the regulation)
Sample Certification Statement
“I, [name], certify that I am fluent in English and [source language], that I am competent to translate from [source language] into English, and that the above is a complete and accurate translation of the attached document to the best of my knowledge and ability.”
— followed by signature, printed name, date, and contact information.
Get It Done Right
Every Translation HelpDesk certified translation meets this standard — $15–25 for a typical document, delivered in 24–48 hours, USCIS-accepted or we fix it free and cover your resubmission fee. See guidance by country, document type, or USCIS form.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Does USCIS require certified translations?
Yes. Every foreign-language document filed with USCIS must include a full English translation and a signed certification that the translation is complete and accurate and that the translator is competent (8 CFR 103.2(b)(3)).
Who can translate documents for USCIS?
Any competent translator fluent in both languages may translate and certify the document — USCIS does not require a licensed or 'sworn' translator. USCIS does not prohibit applicants from translating their own documents, but self-translations draw extra scrutiny and are far more likely to trigger a Request for Evidence, so an independent translator is the safer route.
Can I translate my own documents for USCIS?
USCIS discourages self-translation and it frequently leads to Requests for Evidence. Use an independent qualified translator so the certification is credible and the translation is accurate.
Does Google Translate work for USCIS?
No. Machine translation cannot sign the required certification of accuracy, and it makes errors on names, dates, and legal terms. USCIS needs a human translator's signed statement.