Which translations need to be certified?

When it comes to immigration procedures for the United States – including in the context of the EB-3 visa – it is crucial to pay close attention to the correct translation of the documents required for the process. This care ensures that your application is reviewed smoothly without obstacles due to misunderstandings or lack of relevant information, always in compliance with the requirements of the American immigration authorities.

In general, all documents not in English need to be accompanied by a complete translation into that language. The rule of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is clear on this point: any document written in a foreign language must be accompanied by a certified translation. This translation must include a statement from the translator attesting that they are competent to fully translate the document and that the translation faithfully corresponds to the original.

In the context of the EB-3 – and other immigration processes – the types of documents that often require translation include birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, academic transcripts, professional qualification certificates, civil documents, among others. In some countries, such as Brazil, it is common for these documents to be translated by a sworn translator, that is, a professional authorized to perform official translations.

However, it is important to clarify that the U.S. government does not explicitly require the translation to be done by a sworn translator, but rather that the translator certifies, through a signed statement, the accuracy of the translation. It is worth remembering that each consulate or responsible agency may have specific guidelines, so it is recommended to check the requirements of the consular unit where your process will be reviewed.

Furthermore, to avoid unpleasant surprises – such as document rejection due to inaccurate translations or the absence of a translation statement – it is highly advisable to seek information directly from official sources or turn to companies with a good reputation in the sector, always taking care not to fall for miracle promises or misleading marketing campaigns.

Staying updated and strictly following the current U.S. immigration laws is essential for a smooth process. Therefore, ensure that all translations are complete, accurate, and accompanied by the necessary certifications to avoid future issues in your application. In case of doubt, consulting official sources and specialists can make all the difference in ensuring your immigration path proceeds without unforeseen problems.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.