The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires foreign language documents submitted as evidence to be accompanied by certified English translations. This raises the question of whether an individual is permitted to translate personal documents, such as a birth certificate, for submission to USCIS.
Accurate and reliable translations are crucial for the adjudication of immigration benefits. USCIS needs to be confident that the provided translation reflects the original documents content without bias or misrepresentation. The translation’s validity directly impacts the applicant’s case, influencing approval or denial decisions. Historically, the requirement for certified translations has aimed to ensure consistent and trustworthy information processing.