Explore country-specific rules for recognising foreign documents for official use.
This map shows when certified or sworn translations, apostilles, or legalisation are required for official use.
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Requirement: Certified
| Apostille required | No (unless the document will be used outside the United States) |
|---|---|
| Translation type required | Certified translation |
| Who can translate | Any competent translator providing a signed certification of accuracy |
| Official translator registry | No national sworn or licensed translator registry |
| Accepted languages | English (for federal authorities such as USCIS) |
| Legalisation authority | U.S. Department of State (for apostilles issued in the U.S.) |
| Official source | 8 CFR § 103.2(b)(3) – USCIS Translation Requirement |
Important: The United States is a federal country. While federal agencies such as USCIS require only certified translations, individual states, courts, universities, and DMVs may impose additional requirements. Always confirm with the receiving authority.
Find a certified translator for the United StatesThere is no national registry of sworn or licensed translators in the United States. Any individual who is fluent in both languages may provide a certified translation, including professional translators and translation agencies.
While not required by federal law, some institutions may prefer translators affiliated with professional organisations such as the American Translators Association (ATA).
Under federal immigration law (USCIS), a certified translation must include a signed statement from the translator affirming that:
“I, [Name], am competent to translate from [source language] into English and certify that the translation of [document name] is true and accurate to the best of my ability.”
The certification must include the translator’s name, signature, and date. Notarisation is not required for USCIS submissions.
Detailed guidance on USCIS-certified translations can be found here: USCIS Certified Translation Guide .
While USCIS and other federal agencies require only certified translations, individual state courts, departments of motor vehicles (DMVs), universities, and credential evaluation services may impose additional requirements.
Some states may request notarisation, or may require translations from a professional translator. Requirements vary by jurisdiction.
Foreign-language documents submitted to U.S. federal authorities must be translated into English and properly certified.
If the document is issued in the United States and intended for use abroad, it may require an apostille from the appropriate Secretary of State (for state-issued documents) or the U.S. Department of State (for federal documents).
The federal requirement for certified translations is set out in 8 CFR § 103.2(b)(3). The United States does not regulate translators at national level. Translation validity is based on the translator’s signed certification of competence and accuracy.
