Do documents in a foreign language require a sworn translator?

When dealing with immigration matters for the United States, it is common to have questions about how to present documents in a foreign language, especially in the context of visas such as the P visa. It is important to pay attention to the requirements established by the U.S. government and ensure that all documentation is correct to avoid delays or issues in the process.

In the United States, immigration law requires that any document written in a language other than English be accompanied by a full translation into English. This translation must be accompanied by a statement from the translator certifying that the translation is accurate and that they are competent to translate from the original language into English. Unlike some countries that require a sworn translation-a formal and locally regulated process-the U.S. regulation does not impose this specific requirement. In other words, there is no obligation to hire a “sworn” translator in the Brazilian sense of the term; it is sufficient that the translation meets the standards of accuracy and completeness established by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

It is worth remembering that this translation certification must contain information such as the translator”s signature, the date, contact details, and a statement that the translation is complete and faithful to the original document. Following these guidelines is essential so immigration officers can validate the authenticity and content of the submitted documents.

Finally, it is always recommended to follow official guidelines and seek information from reliable sources or specialized professionals, thereby avoiding pitfalls or dubious promises that could compromise the progress of your case. Staying informed and strictly complying with legal requirements is the best way to handle your immigration case safely.

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.