We receive many questions about certified translations. Depending on the country you live in, there may be different requirements for what constitutes a “certified translation.” Navigating the different requirements can definitely get tricky, so it is important to do your research to understand what your translation requires to ensure it will be accepted. In today’s post, we are going to go over some of the most common questions and discuss what certified translation means in the United States.
1) What is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation meets the requirements of the country in which it is being used, which allows it to be used for official purposes. Each country’s rules vary, so it is important to fully understand how your document will be used to ensure you get the proper translation. The United States does not have an official body for certifying translators, and a Certificate of Translation is sufficient for certifying the translation. This will be a statement certifying that the translator has completed the translation accurately and to the best of their ability that will accompany the translated document. Translations certified in the United States are valid anywhere in the 50 United States, regardless of the state where you had the document certified, unless the end user states otherwise.
2) Who is a Certified Translator?
In the United States, there is no specific degree or certification requirement to be a translator. There are plenty of undergraduate and graduate programs in translation, but these are not required to be a professional translator. However, it is important to hire someone you trust, as there are many translators who lack experience and technical skills to provide accurate translations. Especially if you plan on using your document in a court of law, for immigration purposes (USCIS) or in any other legal capacity, it is essential to hire someone who has the technical knowledge to accurately complete your translation.
3) What are certified translations used for?
Certified translations may be used for a variety of purposes. Some of the most common are:
a) Immigration: applying for a visa, green card, etc. through the USCIS;
b) Legal proceedings: divorce, adoption, etc. ;
c) Financial: opening bank accounts in the United States, applying for a mortgage, etc.
d) Education: applying to a US university from another country, transferring credits, etc.
If you aren’t sure if your translation needs to be certified, ask the end user for their requirements.
4) What is the difference between a certified translation and a notarized translation?
A notary public can only acknowledge the identity of the person signing the document, and not the actual translation. Some end users have this as an additional requirement, but most commonly, a certified translation is sufficient for all legal purposes.
We hope you found this article helpful. For any other questions, please feel free to contact us. Thank you for reading.