How to make a certified translation

Numerous people dealing with US immigration are asking for a certified or notarized translation. Hence, it was about time to explain how to do a certified translation for both translators and clients to understand the concept better and to ensure requirements are being followed.

warning for our translators

Our translators

Although our translators are experienced linguists dealing with certified translation every day, we believe that there are some things they should keep in mind when translating an official document. On this page, we are going to tell you how to do a certified translation.

warning for our clients

Our clients

While the concept of the official translation may be clear to us, it may not be for our clients, and some things need to be kept in mind when asking for an official translation. Here are some rules and requirements of this type of translation.

certified translation warning

Warning

Usually, a translation is an adaptation of a text from one language into another, where using synonyms is permitted. When it comes to official translation, things change. The translation needs to follow certain requirements, which are stated below.

The normal translation is an adaptation of a text from one language into another while conveying the message’s meaning. Certified and notarized translations are different. They need to be an exact, word-for-word translation of the source text! Choosing synonyms for words is not permitted, altering the phrase is not permitted, changing the meaning is not permitted. Adapting the text in any way, either from legal language to normal language, or editing the text because the clients asked for it is not allowed.

What is a certified translation?

A certified translation is an exact translation of a text from one language into another, with no omissions or add-ons. All text on the page has been translated, including headings, logos, signatures, and stamps. The translation needs to be stamped and signed on every page. It needs to be accompanied by a certificate of accuracy, which states that the person or company doing the translation can perfectly translate between the two languages, and the translation is an exact representation of the original document.

What is a notarized translation?

A notarized translation is a certified translation which has been presented in front of a notary public and got the seal. The notarization is an extra layer of security added to a translation that is certified. The notary public certifies the fact that the person who did the translation has been present in the notary office and has been identified.

certified translation requirements and rules

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uscis translation requirements and rules

How to do a certified translation

Since this is a word-for-word translation of the text, the answer to how to do a certified translation is easy: translate the text exactly as it appears. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • No alterations of any kind are allowed;
  • Choosing synonyms for various words is not permitted, especially when the chosen word may have more than one meaning;
  • Altering the phrase is not permitted;
  • Changing the meaning of the phrase is not permitted;
  • Adapting the text in any way is not permitted;
  • Changing the text in the client’s favor is not permitted.
  • Text adjustments, changes, transformations, adaptations, or tweaks in any way are NOT allowed.

This is an official translation which is to be used with legal bodies like USCIS and as such, any small alteration or omission could lead to the translation being rejected. In order for this not to happen, we clearly instruct our translators how to make a certified translation, and they have to work according to above rules.

Certified Translation for USCIS

Every year the immigration organization in the United States accepts many applications from immigrants and the families of immigrants who plan to move to the U.S. Some applications must be sent in with the translation of foreign-language documents. Individuals who are preparing their applications need to get a certified translation. Certified translation for USCIS (the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) is a specific type of translation required by USCIS, high school, university enrollment, passport office, and many other local, state, and national official uses. Certified translations are word-for-word and delivered by a professional translator or an LSP letterhead, including a signed and stamped Certificate of Translation Accuracy, which attests to the thoroughness and accuracy of the translation and the translator’s qualifications.

USCIS is the government agency that oversees lawful immigration to the United States. Certified translations for USCIS are required for all immigration procedures. All paperwork submitted for an immigration petition, application, or status adjustment must include a certified translation into English. The translation must also list the translator’s certification, and your translator must provide you with a Certificate of Accuracy.

Working with a USCIS certified translator ensures an accurate translation and that your application or petition will not be sent back because you did not follow the procedure. A professional translator is certified to translate from one language to another and is prepared to translate your immigration documents.

  • What are the 4 types of immigrants?

    • People who go through the process of naturalization to become the citizen of a country.
    • Lawful Permanent Residents. They are the ones who are legally allowed to live in a country but have not become citizens yet.
    • Non-Immigrants. People who are legally in a country but for a short period of time.
    • People who are illegally living in a country and can be deported by the authorities if discovered.
  • How much money do you need to immigrate to USA?

    You will need somewhere between $5,000 to $12,000 to immigrate to USA. Along with paying the immigration fee, you will also have to take care of travel and residence expenses. You might need to hire an immigration lawyer and you will have to pay them too. You will also have to hire a professional for the translation of your documents.

  • Can I immigrate to USA?

    If you are not in USA and want to immigrate there, someone must sponsor you. A US citizen must file an immigrant petition for you first to begin the process. When there is visa availability, you will be notified and you can apply for your green card. An employer, relative, or spouse can submit an immigrant petition on your behalf.

  • How can I check my immigration status online?

    You can easily check your immigration status online by visiting the website of USCIS, clicking the “Case Status Online” page, and entering your receipt number. As long as you have your receipt number, you won’t have any trouble checking up your case status online. If you want to receive regular updates related to your case, you can create an account on the website of USCIS.

Legal Document Translation

Birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other legal documents often necessitate professional translation services, especially when they are used across different countries with varying translation requirements. Translation companies and agencies, adept in both the source and target languages, play a crucial role in this process. They ensure that all translations meet the specific legal standards required for official use, thereby bridging the linguistic gap between diverse legal systems. This professional approach guarantees that the translated documents are accepted by authorities and institutions, fulfilling the legal translations needed for a range of purposes.

Translation projects, encompassing a wide range of documents such as financial statements, medical records, divorce certificates, and more, require a high level of precision and expertise to ensure peace of mind for all parties involved. Engaging an ATAcertified translator for the English translation of these common documents guarantees quality translation that meets professional standards.

The translator certification is a mark of reliability and proficiency, ensuring that every detail is accurately conveyed. This meticulous approach is especially crucial for sensitive materials, where the accuracy of the translation can significantly impact the outcomes for individuals and businesses alike.

Police records are often critical documents for legal purposes and legal proceedings, requiring translation across a wide range of language pairs to ensure that all involved parties fully understand the contents. The translation of such sensitive and crucial documents demands a high degree of accuracy and professionalism, as they can significantly influence the outcome of legal actions.

Translators working on these documents must possess a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as the legal terminologies and practices relevant to the jurisdictions involved. This ensures that translations are not only accurate but also legally sound, facilitating a smooth process in cross-lingual legal contexts.

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