Translation Certification Requirements
Translation certification requirements vary depending on the agency or entity to which it is being submitted. Prior to contracting a translator, it is important to verify that they meet the specific requirements of your translation. Do not depend on statements such as "100% guaranteed acceptance" found on websites or social media without double-checking the translator's actual credentials. Failure to do so may result in loss of time and money.
For submission to the United States Citizenship and Immigration ServicesDocuments containing foreign language submitted to USCIS generally require a full English language translation, attached to which there must be a certification form in which translator certifies that the translation is complete and accurate. The translator can self-certify that he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English. The certification form should be signed by the translator before a notary.
|
For courts or halls of records/county clerks officesRequirements may vary from state to state, but most such entities require that the translator hold a specified certification and/or license. Often the translation certification form must be signed before a notary public. Translations of death certificates involving property conveyances are a good example of the type of translation that will probably be rejected if not translated by a properly credentialed translator and certified using an accepted form before a notary.
|
Other entitiesBanks, licensing agencies, and educational institutions often have specific requirements for translation credentials and the translation certification form. Check with the institution that will be receiving the translation. |
See sample declaration below: (can be downloaded as a Word .docx or .pdf file)
| template_california_certification_of_translation_form.docx |