To say accuracy matters when submitting documents to USICS is an understatement. One small mistake, missing page, or improperly certified translation can cause delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), or even a denial of your application. At The Perfect Translation, we know just how overwhelming this process can feel – especially when you’re juggling multiple documents and strict government requirements. That’s why we’ve created this USCIS translation checklist – so you can feel confident when you hit submit.
Your USCIS Translation Checklist
USCIS requires certified translations for any document originally written in a language other than English. This includes everything from birth certificates and financial records to police reports and adoption papers. It’s important to note that USCIS does not accept partial translations or summaries, and all translations must be completed by a human translator. Running through this checklist before submitting your application helps make sure nothing is missing, and it will be accepted the first time.
1. Gather All Required Documents
Pull together every document required by USCIS for your specific form. Depending on your case, this may include:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage or divorce certificates
- Passports or national IDs
- Police clearance or criminal records
- Medical records
- Court or government-issued documents
- Adoption decrees
- Bank statements or financial documents
- Employment letters
- Education transcripts or diplomas
Keep in mind that USCIS requires full copies of your documents. That means front, back, and margins.
2. Confirm Legibility
Next on your USCIS translation checklist is making sure all your documents are clear and readable. Poor quality scans are one of the most common causes of RFEs. If the ink is faded, stamps are blurred, or handwriting is unclear, consider providing:
- A high-resolution scan
- An accompanying explanation
- Any additional corroborating identity documents
3. Double-Check Names and Dates
Before submitting your documents, verify that:
- Your name appears consistently across all documents
- Dates are accurate and readable
- Spelling is correct
- Diacritical marks (accents, umlauts, etc.) are clear
If one document uses a different spelling or name variation than the others, preparing an affidavit or explanation letter can help avoid confusion during USCIS review.
4. Submit Every Page for Translation
USCIS requires a translation of every page, and skipping sections often leads to delays. At The Perfect Translation, we help make sure every page is accounted for – even if the page:
- Only contains stamps
- Is blank
- Includes handwritten notes
- Shows watermarks or seals
5. Don’t Alter or “Fix” the Document
USCIS considers any attempt to crop, rewrite, or digitally modify an original document a red flag. If something seems incorrect or unclear, let your translator know. They’ll annotate or translate it exactly as written so you can avoid RFEs or other delays.
6. Ensure Your Translator Provides a Certification Statement
Also on your USCIS translation checklist is making sure your translator’s certification statement meets requirements. A proper certification includes:
- A statement of accuracy
- Translator’s full name
- Signature
- Date
- Statement of competency
Translations from The Perfect Translation always include USCIS-compliant certification – no extra requests needed.
7. Keep Copies of Everything
You’ll need copies of your documents for future applications, renewals, or interviews. It’s a good idea to create a digital folder that includes:
- Original documents
- Certified translations
- Certification statements
- All receipts and application forms
- Any additional explanatory letters
Make Your Final Check with The Perfect Translation
Before uploading or mailing your packet, run through one last USCIS translation checklist. Make sure:
- All documents are present: The original documents and certified translations should match page-for-page.
- All translations are certified: Each translation should include its own certification.
- All scans are clear and complete: There should be no cutoff edges, missing pages, or blurry text.
Submitting a clean, well-organized packet can dramatically reduce your processing time – and your stress. At The Perfect Translation, our team of experts delivers accurate, USCIS-compliant certified translations quickly and professionally. We even offer a 100% guarantee that our translations will be accepted by USCIS the first time. Put our experience to work for you, and get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your documents meet all requirements. Contact us today for a free quote.
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