The immigration process in the US is not an easy one, and you often need to translate your official documents to start your application. However, not just any translation will do, which means you can’t ask your next-door neighbor to help you out. Instead, you need a translation from a certified translator who can notarize the final result.
But what exactly are notarized translations, and why do you need them in immigration and visa applications? We have put all the answers together for you in this comprehensive guide, helping you understand their role before you start your own process.
What is a Notarized Translation?
A notarized translation starts the same way as any other translation. A human will translate the content of your official document from one language to another, maintaining languages and cultural nuances. However, once it has been proofread and quality-checked, the translator will sign a certification letter in the presence of a notary.
Once complete, the notary will also stamp the certification letter to confirm that it has been notarized. It can then be presented for your use, such as for immigration and visa applications. However, it is good to keep in mind that this isn’t the same as a certified translation, but you can have it done by a certified translator.
Why are Notarized Translations Required for Immigration and Visas?
You may be wondering why you need to look for a notarized translation when applying for immigration and visas and why you can’t just use someone who speaks the two languages. The main reason is that notarized translations ensure the accuracy and reliability of the translated documents, and they can help ensure there are no delays in the processes.
Notarized translations are legally recognized by several government institutions, verifying that they are legitimate and correct. Since immigration and visa applications require official documents like birth certificates and medical records, a notarized translation ensures they haven’t been turned into fraudulent documents that provide the USCIS with inaccurate information.
Types of Documents that Require Notarized Translation
What documents the USCIS asks you for will depend on the process you’re going through and possibly your independent situation. However, they are usually official documents that you’ve acquired in the country in which you currently reside.
Below are some of the main documents you might need a notarized translation for:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Diplomas
- Passports
- Driving licenses
- Legal contracts
- Affidavits
- Medical records
- Bank statements
- Court documents
Benefits of Notarized Translation
You already know briefly why the USCIS requires notarized translations for visa and immigration processes, but what are some other benefits that come from them? Here are the main five:
Ensures Accuracy and Authenticity
Notarized translation services are typically offered by certified translators like those at The Spanish Group. They ensure your translations are 100% accurate and reliable, verifying that the final result faithfully represents the original document. The translator goes through various quality checks to guarantee its perfection before it even reaches the notary.
The notary offers an added layer of accuracy, as they also ensure that a reliable expert has performed the translation and that the proper measures were used. They then give their seal of approval to confirm their authenticity.
Legal Validity
Since official institutions like the USCIS require notarized translations, they need to hold some level of legal weight. When a notary public attests to how reliable a translator is and whether their credentials are valid, it shows the institution receiving the translation that it is a true and accurate representation of the original document.
A notarized translation meets all the legal requirements of the process it is going through, which is crucial for things like immigration and visa applications. This is also crucial when submitting documents in other landscapes, such as legal proceedings and official matters.
Global Recognition
If it isn’t the USCIS you’re going through for immigration or a visa application, or you need to use your official documents somewhere else in the future, you can rely on a notarized translation in both cases. This is because they are recognized internationally and accepted by various institutions across the globe.
Notarized translations meet the high standards required by various government agencies, institutions, and organizations worldwide, ensuring their validity in different jurisdictions. It saves you time having to receive a different translation each time you move or if you’re abroad on holiday and need to present your documents.
Reduced Risk of Errors and Misinterpretations
Only professional translators who have been certified or accredited can produce a notarized translation for immigration or visa purposes. Due to this, they all follow standardized processes that include meticulously reviewing and editing translations until they are 100% and meet the intended message of the original content.
The involvement of a notary public even adds an extra layer of assurance, as they ensure there is no possibility of errors and misunderstandings in the translation. This helps make any legal or immigration processes go through much more seamlessly and reduces the chance of rejection.
Peace of Mind and Reduced Stress
The immigration process is stressful enough as it is; the last thing you want is to worry about how accurate or reliable your translations are. When you use an official translator who provides notarized translations, you can have peace of mind that all language barriers have been passed and there are no misinterpretations that could negatively impact the purpose of your translated documents.
Translators like those at The Spanish Group take the weight off your shoulders and do all the heavy lifting to ensure you have a translated document that will pass through your immigration process seamlessly.
The Spanish Group - Your Trusted Partner for Notarized Translations
At The Spanish Group, we work hard to be by your side for all of your notarized translations. Our certified translators meticulously ensure accurate and reliable translations, while our notary public provides their seal of authenticity to meet the strict requirements of the USCIS and other immigration institutions.
You can count on us for peace of mind in all your immigration and visa matters that require a translation. We will be there for you through the whole process. All you need to do is get in touch with one of our experts, and we can start your journey today.
FAQ’s
How can I find a qualified translator to handle my visa document translations?
You can find a qualified translator for your visa document translations at The Spanish Group. All of our experts are certified and ensure your translation is notarized to meet the USCIS or other immigration institutions’ requirements.
What are the turnaround times for obtaining notarized translations?
The turnaround times for obtaining notarized translations can vary based on document complexity and language, typically ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Why are certified translations essential for immigration?
Certified translations are essential for immigration as they validate document accuracy, ensure compliance with legal requirements, and facilitate clear communication between applicants and immigration authorities.
Which types of documents typically require notarized translations for immigration?
Documents like birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic transcripts, and legal affidavits often require notarized translations for immigration purposes.
Can I notarize translations on my own, or does it require professional assistance?
Notarizing translations typically requires professional assistance from a certified translator and a notary public to ensure accuracy and legal validity.