How to Get a Certified Translation: Our Step-By-Step Guide for Official Documents
Learn how to get a certified translation for official documents, what the certification includes, and how to choose a service accepted by USCIS.
Certified translations are required for many official documents, from immigration paperwork to academic and legal records. If you have never ordered one before, the process can feel confusing. This step-by-step guide walks you through exactly how to get a certified translation, what the certification should include, and how to choose a service for USCIS and other institutional submissions.
What Is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation is accompanied by a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy confirming that the translation is complete and accurate and that the required language competence is certified. The certificate is dated and signed. Certification requirements vary by recipient and should be confirmed before ordering.
Which Documents Usually Need Certified Translation
- ●Immigration documents for USCIS, such as birth, marriage, and divorce certificates.
- ●Academic records, including transcripts and diplomas, for school applications or credential evaluations.
- ●Legal documents, such as contracts, court records, and adoption papers.
- ●Medical records required for official or immigration purposes.
- ●Financial and business documents submitted to banks, regulators, or government agencies.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Certified Translation
- Choose a qualified, trusted translation service that provides certified translations, such as Sure Translation.
- Gather clear, legible copies of the documents you need translated.
- Upload your documents and confirm the language pair and turnaround time.
- Your document is translated and reviewed for accuracy and formatting.
- Review the completed translation to confirm that names, dates, and details are correct.
- Receive your certified translation with a Certificate of Translation Accuracy, ready to submit.
What the Certification Should Include
A certification statement confirms the accuracy and completeness of the translation and the required language competence. It is dated and signed, identifying the signer. The full document should be translated, including names, dates, seals, stamps, and annotations. Check the receiving institution’s instructions for any additional requirements.
How to Choose the Right Translation Service
Check whether certification is included in the price, whether delivery times are clear, and whether revisions are available. Transparent pricing helps clarify the total cost before ordering. Any recipient-specific requirements for formatting or certification should also be confirmed in advance.
Why Choose Sure Translation
Sure Translation makes getting a certified translation simple. Every order includes a stamped Certificate of Translation Accuracy, three rounds of revisions, and a fast 24-hour turnaround, all at just $18 per page with no hidden fees. As an ATA Corporate Member, we deliver translations that are accurate, properly formatted, and accepted by USCIS, universities, courts, and other official institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a document certified translated?
Choose a professional translation service, submit clear copies of your documents, and receive a translation accompanied by a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy. Sure Translation handles the entire process online.
Can I certify my own translation?
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. Review the instructions for your particular filing before preparing your documents.
How much does a certified translation cost?
Prices vary by provider, but Sure Translation offers certified translations at a flat $18 per page with certification included.
How long does a certified translation take?
Sure Translation delivers most certified translations within 24 hours.
Will my certified translation be accepted by USCIS?
Yes. Sure Translation provides certified translations that meet USCIS requirements, including a Certificate of Translation Accuracy and formatting that mirrors the original.