A birth certificate is an important record. It’s a key document that records the details of your birth, and it’s used to establish your identity, citizenship, and family history.
In today’s world, people are more mobile than ever, and translated birth certificates are increasingly necessary. If you’re dealing with immigration, international adoption, or even just enrolling your child in a school in another country, you’ll likely need a certified birth certificate translation in English or another language.
This guide will walk you through the process of getting your birth certificate translated, covering the requirements, costs, and essential considerations to keep in mind.
Why would I need a birth certificate translation?
There are many situations in which you might need to submit a translated copy of your birth certificate.
Official requirements
Many institutions require certified translations for legal and administrative processes. Here are just a few examples of why you might be asked to provide a translation:
- Immigration processes such as visa applications and green card applications
- Enrollment in an educational institution
- Verification by government agencies and employers
Legal and administrative purposes
You may also need a translation of your birth certificate for:
- Passport applications
- Marriage licenses
- Other legal procedures
Who needs a birth certificate translation?
Here are some of the people who might need to translate their birth certificates:
- Immigrants and foreign nationals seeking residency or citizenship in another country
- Students applying to foreign universities
- People conducting business or engaging in legal matters across borders
Certified vs. notarized translations
When you need a birth certificate translation, you’ll likely run across the terms “certified translation” and “notarized translation.” Here’s what those terms mean:
What is a certified translation?
A certified translation includes a signed statement from the translator or translation company attesting to the translation’s accuracy and completeness and confirming that the translator is fluent in both languages. It also includes a certification letter or statement, the translator’s credentials, and contact information.
What is a notarized translation?
A notarized translation means that a notary public has verified the translator’s signature on the certification statement. The notary is attesting to the translator’s identity, not the accuracy of the translation. Some institutions may require notarization in addition to certification.
Differences and when each is needed
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) usually requires certified translations, but not necessarily notarized ones. Embassies, courts, and other organizations may have their own requirements regarding notarization.
Translating a Birth Certificate for USCIS
If you’re submitting a birth certificate as part of an application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you’ll need to have it translated into English if the original isn’t in English.
Do you have to translate your birth certificate for USCIS?
Yes, a certified English translation is required for any document submitted to USCIS that’s in a language other than English.
USCIS Requirements
USCIS has a few requirements for the translation:
- Complete and accurate translation: The translation must be an exact reflection of the original, including seals, stamps, and signatures.
- Certification statement: The translator or translation agency must sign a statement attesting to the translation’s accuracy and completeness.
- Format: The translation should keep the format of the original document as closely as possible.
- No handwritten translations: Translations must be typed, not handwritten.
Consequences of non-compliance
If you don’t follow these guidelines, you could face:
- Application rejection: USCIS may reject your application if you don’t provide a certified translation.
- Delays: Mistakes or incomplete translations can cause significant delays in processing your application.
The Translation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting your birth certificate translated into English doesn’t have to be a headache. Here’s a breakdown of the typical process:
Finding a Reputable Translation Service (Step 1)
- Research and Selection: Look for a translation service that specializes in legal and immigration documents. Check online reviews, testimonials, and any accreditations they might have. It’s especially important to make sure they have experience with translations for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Importance of Expertise: Pick a translator who knows the lingo and requirements of the specific institution you’re dealing with.
Obtaining a Quote and Submitting the Document (Steps 2 & 3)
- Requesting a Quote: Get a detailed quote that spells out the translation fees, certification costs, and any other charges. Ask about how long it will take and whether they offer rush service if you need it fast. Prices for certified translations can range from about 8 cents to 50 cents per word, or $20 to $130 per page.
- Submitting the Document: Provide a clear and easy-to-read copy of your original birth certificate. Usually, electronic copies are fine.
Translation and Review (Step 4)
- Accurate Translation: The translator will convert your birth certificate into English, making sure it’s accurate and complete. That means including all the details, seals, and signatures from the original.
- Quality Assurance: The translated document will be checked over for any mistakes or inconsistencies.
Other important considerations
As you begin the process of translating your birth certificate, here are a few more things to keep in mind.
Can I translate my birth certificate on my own?
As a rule, self-translated documents aren’t accepted for official purposes. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), for example, requires a certified translation from a qualified translator.
Does a translated birth certificate need to be notarized?
For USCIS purposes, notarization isn’t generally required, but certification is. Other institutions, however, may require notarization in addition to certification.
Dealing with lost or damaged birth certificates
If your birth certificate is damaged or illegible, that could make the translation process difficult. If you need a replacement, contact the vital records office for the jurisdiction where you were born to get a new copy.
How much does a birth certificate translation cost?
Several things can affect the price of a birth certificate translation:
- Language pair: It may cost more to translate from less common languages.
- Document complexity: Documents with a lot of detail will require more time and expertise, which can increase the price.
- Certification: If you need a certified translation, that adds to the cost.
- Turnaround time: If you need it fast, you’ll probably pay more.
In general, you can expect to pay around $0.08 to $0.50 per word or $20 to $130 per page for a certified translation. RushTranslate, for example, offers certified translations for $24.95 per page with 24-hour delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a consulate translate a birth certificate to English?
While some consulates might offer translation services, it’s generally not their primary function. It’s best to check with the specific consulate in question, but often, they’ll recommend using a professional translation service instead to ensure accuracy and acceptance by official bodies.
Can a notary translate a birth certificate?
A notary public’s role is to verify the identity of the person signing a document; they don’t typically provide translation services. However, a notary can notarize the affidavit of accuracy from a qualified translator, lending legal weight to the translated document.
Where can I get an English translation of my birth certificate?
You have a few options: you can use a professional translation agency specializing in certified translations, hire a freelance translator with the appropriate credentials, or, in some cases, have the translation done by a qualified individual (like a bilingual teacher or professor) who can then have their work notarized.
How to get a birth certificate translated into English
To get a birth certificate translated into English, you’ll need to find a qualified translator. Provide them with a clear, high-quality copy of your birth certificate. Once the translation is complete, ensure it’s certified with a statement from the translator attesting to its accuracy. Depending on the requirements of the receiving institution, you might also need to have the certification notarized.
The Bottom Line
If you need to translate a birth certificate into English for official purposes, you’ll almost certainly need a certified translation. This means the translation must be accurate, complete, and accompanied by a signed statement from the translator attesting to its accuracy.
When choosing a translation service, it’s important to select one with a strong reputation and experience with USCIS or other relevant government agencies. Don’t be afraid to ask about their qualifications and processes.
With careful planning and attention to detail, you can ensure a smooth and successful translation process. Always double-check the specific requirements of the institution or agency receiving the translation.
Investing in a high-quality translation can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. Accurate translations can prevent delays, rejections, and even legal problems down the road, making it a worthwhile investment.