Do I need to translate company documents into English for the L-1?

In general, yes: in the L-1 process, company documents that are not in English typically need to be translated. U.S. authorities normally require documentation to be in English or accompanied by a certified translation, so they can accurately verify the information.

This applies especially to documents that prove the company’s existence and the applicant’s connection to it, which are at the core of an L-1 petition. Among the documents that commonly fall within this scope:

• Contracts and corporate records.
• Financial reports or statements.
• Documents evidencing the relationship between the foreign parent company and its U.S. branch or subsidiary.

Translation quality matters: amateur or uncertified versions can lead to misinterpretations and delay the review. For that reason, the safest approach is to rely on experienced professionals in immigration-related translation.

Since requirements can vary depending on the document and the specific case, confirm the current requirements with the USCIS or a qualified specialist, and verify the credibility of the translation service you choose.

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.