Document Translation Checklist for Your Green Card Application

Why Translations Matter for Your Green Card

USCIS reviews your supporting documents to confirm your identity, relationships, and eligibility. Officers must be able to read every document in English, so any document in another language needs a complete and accurate certified translation. Getting your translations right the first time keeps your application moving and avoids the back-and-forth of a Request for Evidence, which can add months to your case.

Documents That Commonly Need Translation

• ●Birth certificates for the applicant and, in some cases, family members.
• ●Marriage certificates for marriage-based petitions.
• ●Divorce decrees or death certificates that show any prior marriage was legally ended.
• ●Police clearance certificates from countries where you have lived.
• ●Academic transcripts, diplomas, or employment records when required for your category.
• ●Passports and national ID documents when the information is in a foreign language.

USCIS Translation Requirements

Foreign-language documents submitted to USCIS must be accompanied by a complete English translation. Its accuracy and completeness must be certified, together with competence to translate from the original language into English. Names, dates, seals, stamps, and annotations should be included. Check the instructions for your filing before preparing your documents.

Your Pre-Filing Translation Checklist

1. List every supporting document and note which ones are not in English.
2. Gather clear, legible copies of each foreign-language document.
3. Order certified translations from a qualified service such as Sure Translation.
4. Check that each translation includes a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy.
5. Confirm names and dates match exactly across all translated documents.
6. Keep originals and certified translations together and make copies for your records.

Tips to Avoid Delays

• ●Translate the entire document, not just the parts you think are relevant.
• ●Make sure names are spelled consistently across every document in your application.
• ●Do not rely on machine translation, which lacks a valid certification.
• ●Order translations early so they are ready when you assemble your package.

Why Choose Sure Translation

Sure Translation helps green card applicants get every document translated accurately and on time. Each order includes a stamped Certificate of Translation Accuracy, three rounds of revisions, and a 24-hour turnaround at just $18 per page. As an ATA Corporate Member, we make sure your entire document package is consistent, accurate, and ready for USCIS.

Frequently Asked Questions