How to Translate a Divorce Decree for USCIS
Need to translate a divorce decree for USCIS? Learn the requirements, why it matters for marriage-based cases, and how to get a certified translation.
If you were previously married and are now applying for a marriage-based green card or other immigration benefit, USCIS often needs proof that your earlier marriage was legally ended. That means submitting a certified English translation of your divorce decree or certificate if it is in another language. This guide explains the requirements, common pitfalls, and how to get an accurate certified translation.
Why USCIS Needs Your Divorce Decree
When you file a marriage-based petition, USCIS must confirm that both spouses were free to marry. A divorce decree proves that any prior marriage was legally terminated. If your decree is in a language other than English, USCIS requires a complete and accurate certified translation so officers can verify the names, dates, and the final judgment. Missing or improperly translated divorce documents are a common reason for Requests for Evidence.
What a Divorce Decree Translation Must Include
A divorce decree often contains legal terminology, court names, case numbers, and the date the divorce became final. An accurate certified translation reproduces all of these details exactly, including the names of both parties, the court or authority that issued the decree, the judgment, and any seals or stamps. Because these are legal documents, precision matters, and the translation must match the original word for word.
USCIS Requirements at a Glance
- ●Complete and accurate translation of the entire document, with nothing omitted.
- ●A signed certification statement confirming accuracy, completeness, and language competence.
- ●Formatting that mirrors the original, including seals, stamps, and signatures.
- ●Certification: Accuracy, completeness, and language competence must be confirmed.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your Translation
- Obtain a complete, legible copy of your divorce decree or certificate.
- Choose a certified translation service experienced with legal documents, such as Sure Translation.
- Upload a clear scan or photo and place your order.
- Your document is translated and reviewed for accuracy and formatting.
- Review the translation to confirm names, dates, and case details are correct.
- Submit the certified translation with your original to USCIS.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ●Translating only part of the decree instead of the entire document.
- ●Leaving out case numbers, court names, or the final judgment date.
- ●Using a machine translation that lacks a valid certification statement.
- ●Submitting a translation with no formatting that matches the original seals and signatures.
Why Choose Sure Translation
Sure Translation handles legal document translations, including divorce decrees, for U.S. immigration every day. Every 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 divorce decree is accurate, complete, and ready for USCIS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does USCIS require a certified translation of a divorce decree?
Yes. If your divorce decree is in a language other than English, USCIS requires a complete and accurate certified English translation.
Do I need to translate the entire divorce decree?
Yes. The entire document must be translated, including case numbers, court names, the judgment, and any seals or stamps.
Can I translate my own divorce decree?
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 it cost?
Divorce decrees are translated at a flat $18 per page, with certification included.
How long does it take?
Most certified divorce decree translations are delivered within 24 hours.