Applying for U.S. immigration is one of the most important steps in life, and every document you submit must be perfect. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has strict standards, especially when it comes to foreign-language records. One small error or missing certification can delay your case or even lead to denial. That’s why immigration document translation services are not just helpful but essential.

At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide professional certified translations that meet USCIS standards, ensuring that your immigration process is smooth and stress-free. From birth certificates to court records, we help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your case moving forward.

What Are Immigration Document Translation Services?

Immigration document translation services involve translating foreign-language documents into English for submission to USCIS. These translations are not casual; they must meet specific requirements.

Each translation must include:

• A complete and accurate English version of the original document.

• A signed certification from the translator affirming accuracy.

• The translator’s name, signature, and date.

Without these requirements, USCIS will not accept the document. This applies to a wide range of records including vital statistics, academic transcripts, legal decisions, and financial papers.

Why USCIS Requires Professional Translations

Ensuring Accuracy

USCIS needs assurance that every word and number in your documents is correct. Errors can cause misinterpretation of important details such as birth dates or names.

Preventing Fraud

Certified translations act as an additional layer of verification. They confirm that the information provided matches the original document.

Avoiding Delays and Rejections

Applications with uncertified or poorly translated documents often face Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or outright denial. Using professional immigration document translation services prevents these problems.

Documents That Commonly Need Immigration Translation

Birth Certificates

Needed to establish identity and family relationships.

Marriage and Divorce Records

Crucial for spousal visas and green card petitions.

Academic Transcripts and Diplomas

Required for student visas and employment-based petitions.

Criminal Records or Court Documents

Reviewed during background checks and asylum applications.

Financial Records

Sometimes requested for investor visas or sponsorship verification.

Every one of these documents must be translated accurately and accompanied by a certification statement.

The Risks of Using Unqualified Translators

Many applicants attempt to save money by asking friends or using machine translation. However, USCIS has strict policies:

• You cannot translate your own documents.

• Machine translations (like Google Translate) are not acceptable.

• Incomplete or uncertified translations result in RFEs or denial.

Choosing professional immigration document translation services ensures compliance and protects your immigration future.

Benefits of Professional Immigration Document Translation Services

Compliance With USCIS Standards

Professional translators provide certification letters that USCIS recognizes.

Legal Expertise

Specialized translators understand legal terminology and formatting.

Fast Turnaround

Professionals deliver translations quickly, helping applicants meet deadlines.

Peace of Mind

Knowing your translations are accurate lets you focus on the bigger picture of your immigration journey.

Case Example: Family Immigration Success

A family applying for green cards needed to submit multiple foreign-language records, including birth certificates and marriage certificates. They initially considered using personal connections for translations but risked rejection. By choosing professional immigration document translation services, their documents were accepted without issue, and their applications moved forward without delays.

Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan

At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we specialize in immigration and apostille services. Our team understands USCIS requirements and delivers translations that are accurate, certified, and ready for submission. Whether you are preparing a single certificate or a complete immigration package, we ensure compliance at every step.

Learn more about our International Document Translation & Apostille services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a translation “certified” for USCIS?

A certified translation must include a statement from the translator affirming that the translation is accurate and complete to the best of their ability. The certification also requires the translator’s signature, name, and date. Without this, USCIS will not recognize the translation, regardless of accuracy. Professional immigration document translation services always provide this certification.

Can I translate my own immigration documents?

No. USCIS rules prohibit applicants from translating their own documents, even if they are fluent in both languages. Translations must be performed by a third-party translator who provides a certification letter. This ensures impartiality and accuracy.

Which immigration documents always require translation?

Any non-English document must be translated, regardless of type. The most common are birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, diplomas, transcripts, court records, and criminal background checks. Even less obvious items, like adoption papers or bank records, may require certified translation if requested by USCIS.

Do translations need to be notarized for USCIS?

Not usually. USCIS requires certified translations, not notarized ones. However, some applicants choose notarization for extra verification, or when the same documents will be used abroad. Our notary translation services cover both options.

How long does immigration document translation take?

Turnaround time depends on the type and number of documents. Simple vital records may take 24–48 hours, while longer academic transcripts or legal records may take several days. Working with professional providers ensures timely delivery to meet USCIS deadlines.

How much do immigration document translation services cost?

Prices vary depending on document type, length, and urgency. Basic certificates are often less costly, while lengthy or complex records cost more. While low-cost options exist, accuracy and compliance are more important, since rejection can be far more expensive.

What happens if USCIS rejects my translation?

If your translation fails to meet requirements, USCIS will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) or deny your application. This creates delays of weeks or months and may even require refiling. Using professional immigration document translation services ensures compliance the first time.

Can I use online translation tools for immigration documents?

No. Machine translations are not accepted by USCIS because they lack accuracy, context, and certification. Only human-certified translations are valid.

Why is it better to hire a professional service instead of a freelance translator?

Professional agencies like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan specialize in immigration cases and know USCIS standards thoroughly. While freelancers may be skilled, they may not provide the legally required certification. A professional service guarantees compliance, reliability, and accountability.

How do Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan help with USCIS submissions?

We provide certified translations that USCIS accepts, assist with notarization if needed, and offer apostille services for documents used internationally. Our team handles the paperwork so clients can focus on their immigration journey with confidence.

Conclusion

Immigration is a complex process, and every document counts. By using immigration document translation services, you ensure that your records are accurate, certified, and fully compliant with USCIS requirements. Don’t risk delays or rejections—trust professionals who understand the process inside out.

Contact Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan today to secure your translations and move closer to your immigration goals.