Are Translations Required For Documents Submitted To The National Visa Center (NVC)? Which Documents Need To Be Translated?

Yes. All documents submitted to the National Visa Center that are not in English must be accompanied by certified English translations. Documents that need to be translated include birth certificates, marriage certificates, military records, court records, school transcripts, police certificates, divorce decrees, etc.

What Is The Purpose Of Translating Documents For NVC Processing, And How Does It Contribute To The Visa Application?

The purpose of translating documents for NVC processing is to make sure that the necessary documents and information are accurately conveyed and documented in the visa application process. Translating documents ensures that all parties involved in the visa application process can understand the necessary documents, as well as to ensure that all details are accurately recorded. This contributes to the visa application process by making sure that all relevant details are properly documented and understood so that the application can be processed more quickly and efficiently.

Can I Translate The Documents Myself, Or Do They Need To Be Translated By A Certified Translator?

It depends on the purpose of the translations and the documents in question. It is generally recommended to use a certified translator if the translations are for official documents, such as birth certificates, passports, or legal documents. However, if you are translating personal documents, such as letters or emails, for your own use, it is acceptable to translate them yourself as long as the translations are accurate.

How Do I Find A Certified Translator To Translate My Documents For NVC Processing?

You can find a certified translator to translate your documents for NVC processing by searching online using terms such as “certified translator NVC” or “document translation for NVC.” Additionally, you can contact your local court clerk or State Bar Association for referrals.

What Qualifications Or Credentials Should A Translator Have To Provide Certified Translations For NVC Documents?

A translator must have a certification from The American Translators Association (ATA) or a similar organization that specializes in translation services. The translator must also be an expert in the language for which the documents are being translated. Additionally, they must have knowledge of the specific country’s culture and be familiar with the type of NVC documents that need to be translated. Finally, the translator must have experience in providing certified translations for NVC documents.

Are There Specific Requirements For The Format Of Translated Documents Submitted To The NVC?

Yes, translated documents must be translated by an approved translator who is trained and qualified to do such translations. The translation must include a certification statement signed by the translator, specifying the translator’s name, address, and qualifications. The translation should also include the original document in the foreign language and a copy of the certified English translation. The documents should be legible and clear, and must include all of the required information.

Can I Submit Both The Original Document And The Translated Version To The NVC?

No, only one version should be submitted to the NVC. The NVC will accept the original document in its original language and then forward it to the translator for translation into English.

Do I Need To Include A Statement Or Certification From The Translator When Submitting Translated Documents To The NVC?

No, you do not need to include a statement or certification from the translator when submitting translated documents to the NVC. However, the translated documents should be accompanied by a cover letter that identifies the translator and specifies that the documents are accurate translations of original documents.

Are There Specific Guidelines For Translating Documents That Include Personal Information, Such As Birth Certificates Or Marriage Certificates?

Yes, there are specific guidelines for translating documents that include personal information. These guidelines are designed to protect individuals’ identities from being compromised through the translation process. Generally, the translator must adhere to the following:


• Maintain the confidentiality of all personal information contained in the document.
• Ensure that all translations are accurate and complete.
• Avoid using any identifying information in the translation other than what is necessary to accurately convey the meaning of the document.
• Ensure that all translations are performed in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Ensure that all translations meet industry standards for quality and accuracy.

Can I Translate Documents Into A Language Other Than English If The U.S. Embassy Or Consulate In My Country Uses That Language?

Yes, you can translate documents into a language other than English if the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country uses that language. However, you will need to provide certified translations of all documents that are not in English. The U.S. Embassy or Consulate will also require you to submit the original translated documents, and not just copies.

How Do I Ensure That Translated Documents Accurately Reflect The Content Of The Original Documents?

1. Hire a professional translator. Make sure they have extensive experience in the subject matter of the documents and that they are fluent in both the source and target languages.

2. Use a translation software. Although machine translation is not always 100% accurate, it can be a great starting point and help you to understand the gist of the text.

3. Have a native speaker review the translation. Ask someone who is fluent in both languages to review the translated document for accuracy and to detect any potential errors or mistranslations.

4. Use a quality assurance process. Have a third party review your translations to ensure that they are up to industry standard and that they accurately reflect the content of the original documents.

Are There Any Additional Fees Associated With Translating Documents For NVC Processing?

Yes. In addition to the translation fee, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining an affidavit of accuracy from a translator or submitting the documents to a certification authority.

How Does The NVC Verify The Accuracy And Authenticity Of Translated Documents?

The NVC has a policy of only accepting translations from certified translators and interpreters. This ensures that translations meet the highest standards of accuracy and authenticity. The NVC usually requires certified translations to be accompanied by a signed statement from the translator or interpreter confirming accuracy and authenticity of the document. The NVC may also perform additional checks to ensure that the translations are accurate and authentic.

Can I Submit Photocopies Of Translated Documents, Or Should I Provide Original Translated Copies?

If you are submitting photocopies of translated documents, it is advised that you provide the original translated copies in addition to the photocopies. This is because the original copies are more likely to be accepted and considered valid.

What Should I Do If I Receive Requests From The NVC For Further Clarification Or Additional Translation Of Certain Documents?

If you receive requests from the NVC for further clarification or additional translation of certain documents, you should contact your attorney or representative to provide the requested information. The NVC will not be able to process your application without the necessary documents and information. You can also reach out to the National Visa Center directly to inquire about any specific requests that you may have.

How Do I Address Discrepancies Or Issues With Translated Documents Identified By The NVC During Review?

If discrepancies or issues with translated documents are identified by the NVC during review, you should contact the translator who provided the documents to clarify any inconsistencies. If the translator cannot resolve the problems, you can submit additional documents from a different translator. Depending on the issues that the NVC identifies, you may also need to submit a Statement of Explanation (SOE) to address any discrepancies.

Can I Translate Documents Myself And Then Have Them Certified By A Notary Public Or Another Authority?

No, you cannot translate documents yourself and have them certified by a notary public or another authority. In order for a document to be certified, it must be translated by a professional translator who is certified by a recognized authority. The certification process requires an extensive review of the translation to ensure accuracy. A notary public or other authority does not have the qualifications or expertise to properly review a translation.

Are There Specific Guidelines For Translating Medical Records Or Other Specialized Documents For NVC Processing?

Yes, there are specific guidelines for translating medical records and other specialized documents for NVC processing. The NVC’s website provides detailed instructions for translators including how to properly format the document, how to certify the accuracy of the translation, and other important information.

Can I Include Translated Versions Of Supporting Letters Or Affidavits From Family Members Or Sponsors?

Yes, if the translated versions of the letters or affidavits are notarized and the original language versions are also included.

Where Can I Find Additional Resources And Support To Navigate The Document Translation And Authentication Process For NVC Processing?

The U.S. Department of State is the best source for official information and guidance on the document translation and authentication process for NVC processing. Their website also provides helpful tools, including a list of approved document translation services, a document drop-off tool, and a timeline calculator. Additionally, the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) provides a wealth of resources for navigating the document translation and authentication process. AILA’s website includes a “Knowledge Base” with FAQs about the NVC process, as well as links to helpful documents such as sample translations and authentication letters. There are also various online forums and blogs dedicated to helping individuals navigate the document translation and authentication process for NVC processing.