Do I need to translate pay stubs for the L-1 visa?

Yes. In the L-1 visa process, any document in a foreign language submitted to U.S. immigration authorities must be accompanied by an English translation. This applies to proof of employment, such as pay stubs.

The accepted standard is a complete and accurate translation of the document, with a certification in which the translator declares competence to translate and that the English version fully reproduces the original. In general, the original document is presented together with the translation so the content can be verified.

What matters is not the formatting but the accuracy: amounts, dates, and names must match the original, without summaries or omissions. Incomplete or inaccurate translations can generate requests for clarification and delay the review.

Because documentation requirements can change and each case has its own particularities, it is worth confirming the accepted format with USCIS and organizing the translations in advance.

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.