Does the amount paid for document translation affect the EB-2 NIW?

In the EB-2 NIW, it is worth clearing up a common misconception: USCIS does not evaluate whether the translation costs for your documents fall within market standards. The price you pay for a translation service is a personal planning decision, not an item that the immigration authority reviews.

What truly matters is the quality of the translation: it must be accurate, complete, and properly certified. When handling this part of your case, focus your effort on what will actually be evaluated:

• A statement from the translator certifying that the translation is complete and accurate to the original.
• The credentials and qualifications of the person who performed the service.
• The original document alongside the translation, to allow for verification.

Comparing quotes and choosing a reliable professional is a good practice, but as a matter of organization rather than because the cost carries weight in the decision. Be cautious of services that offer no certification. To direct your efforts appropriately, it is worth reviewing the updated guidance from USCIS on document translation.

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.