Yes. If a criminal record or police certificate submitted to USCIS is not entirely in English, it must include a complete, word-for-word English translation with a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy. The translation must reflect every visible element of the original document to ensure immigration officers can properly review your case.
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If you're submitting a criminal record or police-type document for U.S. immigration—for example, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or a U.S. consulate—you'll need a certified English translation that meets specific legal requirements.
Here's the short answer: If your document isn't fully in English, USCIS requires a complete, word-for-word English translation with a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy. No summaries. No partial translations. Everything must be translated.
If you're unsure where to start, working with a professional certified translation service that handles immigration cases regularly can help you avoid costly delays.
USCIS Requirements for Criminal Record Translation
USCIS requires that every foreign-language document submitted with an immigration application include a full English translation and a signed Certificate of Translation Accuracy.
According to official USCIS policy guidance, the translator must certify that the translation is complete and accurate and that they are competent to translate from the foreign language into English.
Every foreign-language document submitted with an immigration application must include a complete English translation and a signed statement from the translator confirming accuracy and language competence.
Is notarization required? No. USCIS does not require notarization for translations. However, notarization may be requested by courts, foreign authorities, or in specific legal circumstances.
If you want to make sure your documents fully comply, it's smart to use a provider that specifically offers USCIS certified translation services and understands immigration documentation standards.
What Counts as a Criminal Record for Immigration?
For U.S. immigration cases, a criminal record can include a range of law enforcement or court-issued documents.
Documents issued by law enforcement confirming whether an individual has a criminal history.
Official background reports issued by government authorities.
Court-issued documentation related to criminal proceedings or sentencing outcomes.
Law enforcement documentation detailing arrests, charges, or case investigations.
If your document is not entirely in English, every word must be translated. That includes stamps, seals, signatures, handwritten notes, and marginal markings.
For example, if you're submitting a police clearance certificate, you'll need a complete police clearance certificate translation that reflects the original document exactly as issued.
Choosing a Certified Criminal Record Translation Provider
Look for a company that clearly states USCIS compliance and includes a signed certification statement with every translation. Providers experienced in immigration document translation services understand formatting expectations and strict submission rules.
A reliable provider should offer:
- USCIS-compliant formatting: Layout that mirrors the original document.
- Signed Certificate of Accuracy: Confirmation that the translation is complete and accurate.
- Word-for-word translation: No summaries or paraphrasing.
- Legal terminology expertise: Accurate translation of court and law enforcement terminology.
- Clear turnaround timelines: Options for rush or same-day service when needed.
Providers offering certified legal translation services are typically best equipped to translate criminal and court documentation accurately.
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What Your Certified Translation Must Include
A certified translation is a complete English translation accompanied by a signed statement confirming the translator's competence and the translation's accuracy.
Your translation package should contain:
- Complete word-for-word English translation
- Certificate of Translation Accuracy signed by the translator
- Statement confirming translator competence
- Translator name, signature, and date
- Notarization only if specifically requested
While USCIS technically allows a competent individual to translate, it is generally discouraged for applicants or family members to translate their own legal documents.
For official filings involving law enforcement or court records, many applicants choose professional certified legal translation services to ensure accuracy and avoid additional scrutiny.
How to Submit Criminal Record Translations with Your Immigration Case
- Scan the original document clearly, including front and back pages.
- Order a certified translation from a USCIS-compliant provider.
- Submit both documents together — the original and the English translation.
- Upload both files if filing through your USCIS online account.
- Bring originals to interviews if requested by immigration officers.
Before ordering, reviewing how to prepare your document for translation can help avoid delays caused by unreadable scans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do criminal records require certified translation for USCIS?
Yes. Any foreign-language criminal record submitted to USCIS must include a full English translation and a signed certificate confirming accuracy.Does USCIS require notarized translations?
No. USCIS requires certification but not notarization unless requested by another authority.Can a family member translate my criminal record?
Technically possible, but strongly discouraged because it may raise credibility concerns during immigration review.What happens if part of the document isn't translated?
Incomplete translations frequently result in Requests for Evidence (RFEs), which delay the immigration process.Should stamps and seals be translated?
Yes. Every visible element of the document—including stamps, handwritten notes, and marginal text—must be translated.Final Tip
Before submitting any translation, review the most current guidance on the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website. Immigration policies change periodically, and confirming requirements can prevent costly delays.
Translate every word, include the certification, and submit both the original document and the translation together.
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