Can I translate my own documents for USCIS?
For your own USCIS case, a translation certified by yourself is not accepted. Use an independent professional translator or translation company.
Why a self-certified translation is not accepted
Even if you speak both languages well, a translation that you certify yourself is not accepted for your own USCIS case. The translation should come from an independent translator who signs the certification of accuracy and competence.
An independent professional translation also avoids problems later in your case, such as questions about the translation.
What to do instead of translating yourself
- Collect the documents your form asks for.
- Upload them to an independent translation service.
- Submit a copy of each original with its certified translation.
Good to know about translations for your own case
- Certified translation costs $20 per page; most documents are ready within 24 hours.
- You can still help: give the correct spelling of names in a note.
- USCIS does not require notarization.
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Last updated: November 14, 2026