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Can I Translate My Own Birth Certificate for USCIS?

  • February 16, 2026

When preparing documents for an application to USCIS, a recurring question amongst applicants is “Can I translate my own birth certificate?”

While this is a reasonable question, especially if you speak English, the hard truth is that you cannot translate your own birth certificate for USCIS. Your multilingual family member also cannot translate the document for you.

USCIS requires that all documents in a foreign language must be translated by a qualified third party who can certify that the translation is accurate. This rule exists to prevent bias and ensure official documents are handled professionally.

Can I Translate My Own Birth Certificate for USCIS?

Why USCIS Does Not Allow Self-Translation

USCIS does not allow applicants to translate their own documents for several important reasons, such as;

  1. Conflict of interest: You are considered the applicant and, as such, cannot verify that your translation is accurate and unbiased.
  2. High risk of unintentional errors: Even fluent bilingual speakers can make mistakes. Small errors in your translated documents can create inconsistencies that delay or jeopardize an application.
  3. Fraud prevention: USCIS relies on certified translations to reduce the risk of altered information. Using a neutral third party ensures your document is accurate.
  4. Maintaining document integrity: Certified translations ensure that the document fully and accurately reflects the original document. This consistency helps USCIS officers review documents efficiently and confidently.

USCIS policy officially states that “any foreign-language document must be accompanied by a full, accurate, and complete English translation, along with a certification from a qualified translator.” This requirement is why self-translations are not accepted.

 

What the USCIS Certification Statement Must Include

For a translated birth certificate to be accepted by USCIS, it must be accompanied by a certification statement from a qualified translator.

USCIS expects the certification statement to include all of the following elements:

  • Translator’s full name: This shows who completed the translation.
  • Translator’s Signature: This confirms that the translator personally certifies the translation.
  • Date of certification: Shows when the translation was completed and certified.
  • Contact information: Typically includes an address, email, or phone number so the translator can be reached if needed.
  • Statement of accuracy and competency: A declaration confirming that the translation is complete and accurate, and that the translator is competent in both the source language and English.

If any of these elements are missing, USCIS may consider the translation incomplete, which can result in delays or a Request for Evidence (RFE).

Can a Friend or Family Member Translate My Birth Certificate?

Technically, yes. USCIS does not explicitly ban friends or family members from translating your birth certificate. Their policy only highlights that the translator must be able to certify the translation.

However, it’s not always the best option. Translations from relatives or friends can often lead to issues because of:

  • Potential bias: A friend or family member has a personal connection to the applicant. Even if the translation is honest, USCIS may question its objectivity.
  • Lack of formal training: Birth certificates are legal civil documents. Many non-professional translators are unfamiliar with how USCIS expects dates, locations, annotations, and legal terms to be translated and presented.
  • Poor formatting: USCIS expects translations to mirror the original document’s structure. Informal translations often miss formatting details such as line breaks, labels, multi-column layouts, or handwritten notes.
  • Missing seals, stamps, and annotations: Official birth certificates often include stamps, seals, registration numbers, marginal notes, or handwritten remarks. These elements must be translated to avoid rejection.
  • Higher risk of a Request for Evidence (RFE): Applications that include translations from friends or relatives are more likely to receive an RFE asking for a new, professionally certified translation. This can delay your case by weeks or even months.

While it may seem convenient or cost-effective, relying on a friend or family member often creates more problems than it solves.

Who Can Translate a Birth Certificate for USCIS?

USCIS allows translations from any qualified third party who is fluent in both English and the original language. There’s no requirement that the translator must hold certain qualifications or a government license.

Here’s a list of eligible options to translate your documents for USCIS.

  • Professional translation companies: Established translation services specializing in USCIS-compliant documents, such as USCISTranslations.
  • Certified translators
  • Independent bilingual individuals who are not the applicant

Using professional translation companies or translators is the safest option to avoid rejections and Requests for Evidence (RFE).

Why You Should Not Translate Your Own Document (Examples + Common Mistakes)

Even if you’re fluent in both languages, self-translating documents can lead to avoidable errors. Here are common mistakes that can come up;

  • Incorrect date formats, such as using day–month–year instead of month-day-year, the required format for U.S. government documents.
  • Missing seals, stamps, or registration marks, which may be overlooked by applicants.
    USCIS requires that all information on the document be translated, even if it appears insignificant.
  • Illegible or unclear text not properly noted: If part of the original document is faded, handwritten, or unreadable, this must be clearly indicated in the translation.
  • Name mismatches across documents: Minor differences in spelling, spacing, or name order can create inconsistencies with passports, visas, or other USCIS forms.
  • Incorrect transliteration: Some languages require careful transliteration into English, especially for names, locations, or administrative terms. A small transliteration error can result in a name that does not match other official records, raising red flags during review.

These mistakes, while not intentional, can be avoided. Using a qualified translator prevents these issues and saves you significant time.

Do Translated Birth Certificates Need to be Notarized?

No. USCIS does not require notarization for translated birth certificates. A certified translation alone is sufficient, provided it meets all requirements.

You’ll only need notarization if another organisation or institution specifically requests it. In those cases, the notarization applies to the translator’s certification, not the original document itself.

If you’re unsure whether notarization is required, you can read more in our guide on notarized translations.

How to Translate a Birth Certificate for USCIS

Step 1: Use a clear copy of the original

The translation must be based on a readable, legible copy of the original birth certificate. If text, stamps, or handwritten notes are unclear, this must be reflected in the translation, not omitted.

Step 2: Translate everything, not just the “main fields”

USCIS requires a full translation. This includes all visible text on the document. Nothing should be left untranslated.

Step 3: Keep formatting consistent

The English translation should closely mirror the structure of the original document. This helps USCIS officers quickly compare the translation with the source document and verify accuracy.

Step 4: Standardize names and transliteration

Names, places, and official terms should be translated or transliterated consistently and in line with how they appear on passports, visas, or prior USCIS filings. Inconsistent spelling is a common source of delays.

Step 5: Attach the translator certification

Every translation must include a signed certification from the translator confirming that the translation is complete and accurate, and that the translator is competent in both languages.

Step 6: Submit the rest of your USCIS application

The translated birth certificate and certification should be submitted together with the original document as part of your overall USCIS application package.

How Much Does a Birth Certificate Translation for USCIS Cost?

The cost of translating a birth certificate for USCIS can vary based on the details of the document and how quickly you need it.

Key factors affecting pricing include;

  • Number of pages: USCIS pricing is typically calculated per page, not per word.
  • Language pair: Common language pairs generally cost less, while rare or complex languages may be priced slightly higher.
  • Urgency: Standard delivery is usually more affordable. Same-day or expedited translations may incur additional charges.
  • Formatting complexity: Birth certificates with multiple stamps, handwritten notes, tables, or seals may require additional formatting, which can affect pricing.

At USCISTranslations, our cost for certified translations starts at $24.99 per page delivered within 12-48 hours and includes a certification of accuracy. Your translation is delivered digitally via email, and we can send it to a physical location if you require. You can request a quote to see how much it’ll cost; there are no hidden fees.

Top Translation Services For USCIS Birth Certificate Translations

While many translation agencies offer certified translations for USCIS, here are a few that stand out;

1. USCIS Translations

USCIS Translations is an online translation service that provides certified translations of documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, and other official records  for USCIS applications

All translations are completed by professional, ATA-accredited translators who specialize in immigration documents. Each order includes a signed Certificate of Accuracy, confirming that the translation is complete and accurate.

Turnaround times are fast, with most translations delivered within 12–48 hours. Pricing is straightforward and affordable, starting at $24.99 per page, with no hidden fees. USCISTranslations supports 150+ languages, which is especially helpful if your documents are issued in less common languages.

Ordering is easy. You upload a clear copy of your document, select the language pair, and receive your certified translation by email, ready for submission. For documents that need to be used beyond USCIS, notarization and apostille services are also available.

2. Translayte

Translayte is a global translation service used by individuals seeking certified translations for USCIS and for legal, academic, government, and business purposes worldwide. It’s a popular option for applicants who want their documents prepared correctly and accepted without unnecessary back-and-forth.

One of Translayte’s strengths is speed. Most certified translations are delivered within 12–48 hours, making them a reliable option for those working with tight USCIS deadlines. The service supports 150+ languages, including rare and complex language pairs, helpful if your birth certificate or other documents were issued in an uncommon language or format.

All translations are handled by vetted professional translators with experience in official and immigration documents. Translayte is also a member of the American Translators Association (ATA).

In addition to USCIS-certified translations, Translayte offers notarization, apostille, and legalization services for documents required for use with other authorities. You can place your orders online, and customer support is available globally via email, phone, and WhatsApp.

3. Legal Translator (legaltranslator.ae)

LegalTranslator.ae is a Dubai-based legal translation provider that offers certified legal translations in the United Arab Emirates. Their translators are accredited by the UAE Ministry of Justice (MOJ), ensuring their translations are suitable for use by courts, government agencies, and embassies across the region.

In addition to UAE-focused services, LegalTranslator.ae also provides certified translations for USCIS applicants based in the UAE. Their services cover documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, contracts, and court filings. The company supports 150+ languages, including Arabic, English, French, Russian, German, Filipino, and others.

Certified translations are typically delivered within 12–48 hours, and customers can place orders online, with 24/7 support via WhatsApp. Pricing is transparent, starting from AED 71.55 per page, with costs clearly shown before ordering.

Why USCIS Translations is the Best Choice for USCIS Birth Certificate Translation

When your immigration application depends on getting the details right, choosing a translation provider that works with USCIS documents every day makes a real difference. That’s exactly where USCIS Translations stands out.

  • Expertise in immigration documents: USCISTranslations specializes in immigration paperwork, birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, and other civil records reviewed by USCIS officers daily. This means we understand what USCIS looks for, what commonly triggers RFEs, and how to format translations correctly the first time.
  • Fast, reliable turnaround (12–48 hours): Most USCIS birth certificate translations are delivered within 12–48 hours, making it easier to meet filing deadlines or respond quickly to a Request for Evidence without stress.
  • Affordable, transparent pricing: Certified translations start at $24.99 per page, with pricing clearly disclosed upfront. There are no hidden fees, and we offer express options for urgent deadlines.
  • 100% USCIS-compliant certified translations: Every translation includes a signed certification confirming accuracy and the translator’s competence, fully aligned with USCIS requirements.
  • Secure document upload and delivery: You can upload your documents through a secure system and receive them digitally via email. This protects sensitive personal information while keeping the process simple and fast.
  • Experience with birth certificate formats in 150+ countries: Birth certificates vary widely by country, language, and format. USCISTranslations has handled documents from over 150 countries, and knows how to produce the right format.

Conclusion

Regardless of how tempting it may be, you cannot translate your own birth certificate for USCIS. Self-translation does not meet USCIS requirements and may result in delays or a Request for Evidence.

Using a qualified, independent translator ensures your birth certificate translation is accurate, properly certified, and fully compliant with USCIS standards. It also reduces the risk of formatting issues, missing details, or inconsistencies that can slow down your application.

If you want a fast, reliable option, USCISTranslations provides USCIS-ready certified translations with quick turnaround and transparent pricing.

Upload your birth certificate today and receive a USCIS-compliant translation in as little as 12–48 hours.

Author's Bio

Sophia Orji
Sophia Orji is a Content Expert who creates clear and helpful guides on certified translations for immigration, visa applications, and official document submissions. Her goal is to help applicants feel confident, informed, and fully prepared when submitting their documents to official authorities.
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Frequently Asked Questions

No. USCIS does not allow applicants to translate their own documents. Your document translations must be completed and certified by a qualified third party to ensure accuracy and neutrality.
Technically, USCIS does not ban friends or relatives from translating documents. However, this is risky. Personal bias, formatting mistakes, or missing details often lead to Requests for Evidence (RFEs). To avoid issues, it’s best to use professional translators.
USCIS does not require a specific license. A translator is considered qualified if they are competent in both languages, are not the applicant, and provide a proper certification statement confirming accuracy and completeness.
The certification must include the translator’s name, signature, date, contact information, and a statement confirming the translation is complete and accurate and that the translator is competent in both languages.
No. USCIS translations don’t need to be notarized. A certified translation alone is sufficient unless another authority specifically requests notarization.
Yes. USCIS accepts scanned or digital copies of certified translations submitted with your application, as long as the certification is included and clearly legible.

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