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Translator certificate: what it is

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Translator certificate: definition

Key answer

A translator certificate (certificate of translation) must accompany every translated document in the petition: articles, recommendation letters, diplomas, screenshots. The translation need not be done by a certified translator or notarized - it is enough that the translator attests to their competence and to the accuracy of the translation.

Anyone fluent in English and the source language can translate, as long as they sign the certificate. Credential evaluations (WES and similar services) are stricter: certified translations of the diploma and transcript plus sealed transcripts from the university.

A common mistake is partial translations or translations without a certificate: the officer may disregard such exhibits. File translations and certificates in the exhibit index next to the originals.

Translator certificate: the official source

Translator certificate: what to do - tools

Translator certificate: read next

Translator certificate: documents and templates from the library

Translator certificate: from community discussions

  • «I recommend using completely different wording, fonts, and formatting in the recommendation letters. Each person writes and formats in their own way: Dear USCIS officer, To whom it may concern, Dear Sir/Madam. The closings are different too, the header too - sometimes on the right, sometimes on the left, sometimes a company letterhead.»

    Anastasia · from public community chats

  • «How to choose an expert for a recommendation letter: founders or co-founders of successful startups (at least at Series A funding stage), C-level executives or VPs of large companies (100+ employees), investors, large customers, patent holders, government officials, leaders of prominent organizations.»

    Aghasi · from public community chats

  • «I ran into all kinds: a friend I talked to a lot (a former colleague) refused to even sign a recommendation letter, while some almost complete strangers, Americans, signed easily.»

    Alexander · from public community chats

Personal opinions of community members from public discussions, not legal advice.

Translator certificate: related terms

All glossary terms

A reference definition, not legal advice. Requirements and procedures depend on your case - verify on uscis.gov.

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