Marriage Certificate for USCIS | Complete Guide

USCIS marriage certificate translation requirements

To submit a marriage certificate translation for USCIS, it must meet specific requirements to be accepted. Any errors or missing details can lead to delays or rejection of your application.

Certification requirement

USCIS requires all foreign-language documents to be accompanied by a certified English translation. This requirement ensures that immigration officials understand the information, making the verification process seamless. 

Additionally, the certified translation must be accompanied by a certificate of accuracy. This certificate or affidavit confirms the translation is accurate and complete. It is a formal certification statement, often issued by a professional translator or translation agency. The certification contains the translator or translation agency details, the translation date, and the signature. It also includes a statement certifying that the translator is fluent in the language pair and competent to translate the document. 

Who can translate the document?

You cannot translate your marriage certificate for USCIS, even if you are fluent in English. According to the USCIS document translation requirements, you must use a qualified translator or a company authorised to provide marriage certificate translation services for USCIS applications. Typically, the translated marriage certificate does not need to be notarised. However, some people often get notarised copies for personal reasons. 

Formatting requirements

The translated document should:

• Be typed, not handwritten.
• Match the layout and format of the original document as closely as possible.
• Include a certification statement from the translator.
• Be printed on the translator's official letterhead if provided by a translation company.

Certification Statement Example

Every USCIS-certified translation must include a signed statement from the translator or translation company confirming the accuracy. Below is a sample format:

Certification by translator

"I, [Translator's Name], certify that I am fluent in [Source Language] and English, and that the above translation is an accurate and complete representation of the original document."

[Signature]

[Date]

Certification by Translation agency

Step-by-step process to translate a marriage certificate for USCIS

A translation mistake could delay your visa, green card, or citizenship application. Follow these steps to translate your marriage certificate for USCIS.

Step 1: Find a qualified translator or translation service

USCIS requires that a qualified professional translate all foreign-language documents, including marriage certificates. The translator must be fluent in English and the document's original language. 

You can find certified translators on association websites like the American Translators Association (ATA). Using ATA-certified translators or translation companies also ensures you get the best services. 

Alternatively, you can find translators or translation agencies online by searching for keywords like; 

• "USCIS certified translation company", 
• "Marriage certificate translation services", 
• "marriage certificate translation company near me" 
• "USCIS certified translation services for marriage certificate"

These searches should give your recommendation, and you can do your due diligence to choose the best option. 

Pro Tip: Before placing your order, you can request an instant quote and chat with customer services to better understand the cost of translating your marriage certificate for USCIS. 

Step 2: Submit a clear copy of the marriage certificate

Your translator will need a high-quality scanned copy or a clear, legible photo of your original marriage certificate. This ensures that they can translate the document accurately. If you are using Translayte, you can upload the marriage certificate online in pdf, docx, doc, jpeg, and png format. 

Ensure the document is accessible and follows the format requirement to avoid delays. Additionally, if your document is damaged or faded, you should upload the best visible version or request a new copy from the issuing authority. 

Step 3: Include additional information and pay translation fees

Once you upload the marriage certificate, you can add other information and instructions for the translators. Proceed to pay your translation fees to complete the ordering process. Marriage certificate translation services cost about $20 - $60 per page, depending on the language pair. Be sure to confirm the price before placing your order.

Step 4: Receive certified marriage certificate translation

Once your order is complete, you should receive your translated marriage certificate within the stipulated timeline. If you use Translayte USCIS translation services, we guarantee a 12-hour delivery timeline for standard documents. The translated copy is accompanied by a certificate of accuracy, which is part of the USCIS requirement. The certification statement from the translator or translation company confirms that the translation is complete and accurate and that the translator is qualified.

Step 6: Submit the translated marriage certificate to USCIS

Once your certified translation is ready, submit it with your USCIS application. The translation should be included as a separate document and attached to the marriage certificate in the original language.

Pro Tip: If you have multiple USCIS applications requiring translations (e.g., birth certificates, divorce decrees), you should hire a reliable translation company to maintain consistency. Translayte has a team of ATA-certified translators, allowing us to offer USCIS translations for multiple document and language pairs. 

Recommended Reading 

How to Translate a Birth Certificate for USCIS  

Common mistakes to avoid when translating marriage certificate for USCIS

Submitting a marriage certificate translation that does not meet USCIS standards can lead to delays, rejections, or Requests for Evidence (RFEs). To ensure a smooth application process, avoid these common mistakes:

Self translation

Many applicants assume they can translate their marriage certificate or ask a family member to do so. However, USCIS explicitly requires that translations be done by a professional translator or a certified translation service to ensure compliance. This guarantees accuracy and avoids potential conflicts of interest.

Missing certificate of accuracy

If the translation does not include a signed certification statement, USCIS will reject the document. Always check the final document to ensure it consists of a certificate of accuracy. To meet USCIS requirements, the certification should contain the translator's full name, signature, date, and contact details. Using a professional translation service can help ensure this is done correctly.

Inaccurate translations

If your marriage certificate contains errors in names, dates, or legal terms, it will be rejected. You should use a certified translation service to ensure no mistakes can lead to a Request for Evidence (RFE), slowing down the approval process.

At Translayte, we have a double-check process for all the translated documents to ensure accuracy before delivery.

Not following USCIS formatting guidelines

USCIS requires the translated document to mirror the format of the original marriage certificate as closely as possible. If the original contains tables, stamps, or seals, the translated version should indicate them appropriately.

If your original certificate includes handwritten text, faded sections, or unclear stamps, make sure the translator notes these properly in the translation. A professional service can ensure your document is formatted correctly.

Pro Tip: The best way to guarantee compliance is to use a reliable certified translation 

company with a proven track record of USCIS acceptance.

Recommended Reading 

How to Get an Apostille on Documents Issued in the USA

Where to get a USCIS compliant marriage certificate translation

You can get certified translation services for USCIS online from independent translators, translation companies, and law firms. Here are some things you should know

Professional Translation Services

Many companies specialise in USCIS certified translations, ensuring compliance with all requirements. For example, Translayte provide fast turnaround times, quality assurance, and a certification statement. Using Translayte certified translation services is best if you want a hassle-free, professionally handled translation with guaranteed acceptance.

Independent certified translators

You can find independent ATA-certified translators offering translation services for immigration purposes online. The American Translators Association (ATA) or other professional organisations often recognise these translators. You can choose this option if you prefer one-on-one service and want to work directly with an experienced translator.

Law firms or immigration consultants

Immigration lawyers or consultants offer translation services as part of their legal assistance packages. These professionals ensure that translations meet USCIS guidelines. However, most of these firms might still outsource the translation to agencies for fast and accurate delivery. This service is best if you need extra legal guidance or a complicated USCIS process.

What to look for in a translation service

• 100% USCIS acceptance guarantee.
• Quick turnaround times (24–48 hours).
• ATA-certified or USCIS-compliant certification statement.
• Clear pricing without hidden fees.

Recommended Reading 

How Much Does a Translator Cost in 2025?

Why should you choose Translayte?

Translayte provides 100% USCIS-accepted translation for various documents, including marriage certificates.  Here's why you should choose us;

100% USCIS acceptance guarantee

One of the biggest concerns with translation services is whether USCIS will accept the document. Translayte gives you a 100% acceptance guarantee, meaning your translation meets all USCIS requirements, including proper certification and formatting.

Fast turnaround times (12-hours)

USCIS applications often have tight deadlines, and waiting weeks for a translation is not an option. Translayte offers a 12-hour delivery timeline plus expedited options, ensuring you get your translation quickly without compromising on quality.

Certified & ATA accredited translators

All translations are done by professional translators who are fluent in both the source language and English. They are also accredited by ATA (American Translators Association) and ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance.

Transparent & affordable pricing

Translayte provides clear, upfront pricing starting at $25 per page, depending on the document type and urgency. You can also request an instant quote to know exactly what you're paying for, with no surprises.

24/7 customer support

If you have any questions or require modifications, Translayte provides responsive customer support. Our support representatives are available 24/7 via WhatsApp, phone, live chat, and email. You can also enjoy bilingual support services, allowing seamless communication. 

Get Your USCIS marriage certificate translation services from Translayte

Choosing Translayte means fast, reliable, and guaranteed marriage certificate translations that meet all USCIS standards. Request for an instant quote to order your certified translation.