Do I need to justify translation costs for documents in the EB-2 NIW?

To be clear from the start: in the EB-2 NIW, the USCIS does not evaluate whether what you paid for translations is reasonable, and you do not need to justify that expense in your petition. The cost of translation is your own expense, not a criterion of the process. What truly matters is the quality and validity of the translation itself.

The concrete requirement is that every document in another language be submitted with a complete English translation, prepared in a manner that authorities will accept. For that reason, the focus should be on:

• Using qualified translators with experience in legal and academic documents.
• Ensuring the translation is accurate and complete relative to the original document.
• Including translation certification when required, attesting to the accuracy of the text.

This care is what gives the officer confidence that the information is true and accurate. The concern, therefore, is not to prove that the expense was reasonable, but that the translation meets what the process requires.

Since translation and certification rules may change, it is worth confirming updated guidance with the USCIS and relying on recognized professionals to prepare your documents.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.