Official translation for United States
A complete English translation with a signed certificate of accuracy from the translator.
What it is calledCertified translation
Who can sign it
The United States has no sworn-translator register. Any translator competent in both languages can certify a translation; applicants should not certify their own documents.
What it must contain
USCIS (8 CFR 103.2(b)(3)) requires a full English translation with the translator’s signed statement that it is complete and accurate and that they are competent to translate. Some universities, courts and state agencies also ask for the signature to be notarised.
Who asks for it
USCIS and the National Visa Center, US consulates, state courts, DMVs, universities and credential evaluators.
Apostille and legalisation
The US is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Foreign documents for immigration filings usually need no apostille; courts and state agencies may ask for one.
Order a translation for United States
These guides summarise published requirements and are for general information. Rules change and individual offices can ask for more, so the receiving authority always has the final word.
Other countries
United Kingdom
A translation confirmed in writing by the translator or translation company as true and accurate.
Read the guide →Spain
A translation signed and stamped by a sworn translator appointed by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Read the guide →France
A translation by a translator registered as an expert with a French Court of Appeal.
Read the guide →Germany
A translation by a translator sworn in before a German regional court.
Read the guide →Italy
A translation sworn by the translator before an Italian court clerk, justice of the peace or notary.
Read the guide →Portugal
A translation certified before a Portuguese notary, lawyer or solicitor, or by a consulate.
Read the guide →Canada
A translation by a certified member of a provincial translators’ association, or one backed by an affidavit.
Read the guide →Australia
A translation by a translator credentialed by NAATI, the Australian accreditation authority.
Read the guide →Mexico
A Spanish translation by an expert translator authorised by a Mexican state or federal court.
Read the guide →Brazil
A Portuguese translation by a public translator registered with a Brazilian state board of trade.
Read the guide →United Arab Emirates
An Arabic translation by a translator licensed by the UAE Ministry of Justice.
Read the guide →