Last updated: November 9, 2025.
By Asel Williams, Esq. · Columbia Law School · Licensed immigration attorney
When submitting immigration applications or petitions with USCIS, you might be required to submit documents in foreign language (for example, birth certificate or marriage certificate).
USCIS requires that all documents in foreign language must be accompanied by English certified translation.
English certified translation means that translator swears that they are familiar with both foreign language and English, has translated the document into English, and that it is a true and complete translation.
ALL documents that are not in English, must be accompanied by such certified translation.
USCIS does not accept computer-generated translation since the translator must be human that can swear to the accuracy of translation.
When submitting the English certified translation, you must attach a photocopy of the document in foreign language as well.
It’s recommended that you hire a professional translation agency to complete the English translation.
Below you can find an example of acceptable certified English translation:
Sample Certificate of Translation
/Translation from ________________ to English/
I, [full name], hereby state and confirm that I’m fluent in __________________ and English languages and that the above translation is accurate to the best of my knowledge, ability and belief.
Signature ________________________ Date ___________________________
Phone number:
email:
Address: