As people interact globally, various situations call for document translation. However, although various translation services exist, it’s dangerous to patronize one randomly. Most agencies request renditions from approved translation services. Though this isn’t a compulsory rule, ignoring it can lead to rejection or denial.
Machine translations are mostly inaccurate, and some freelance translators are uncertified. Thus, we have the option of professional translation services. But does this mean that organizations approve of all private translation companies?
Keep reading to find out!
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USCIS Approved Translation Services
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government body that processes visa applications. USCIS also handles immigration requests and concerns.
In the USCIS application, those with non-English documents must translate their certificates. These certificates vary from vital records like birth certificates to academic qualifications.
These documents prove a candidate’s origin, financial state, and educational qualification. Government officials analyze this information before granting temporary visas or permanent green cards.
Hence, applicants must translate these documents into U.S. English. This act will enable USCIS officials to verify them easily. However, while at it, note that the USCIS specifically demands certified translations from an approved source. In this case, the source must be a professional translator who can certify documents.
However, a non-certified translator can render the documents. But, a certified professional must review them and attach a certification statement. Hence, the USCIS approves all professional services that can provide accurate immigration translations that align with its guidelines.
However, the agency frowns upon self-translation or a job done by a bilingual person. So, despite being USCIS-approved translation services, translation companies must meet all document certification requirements.
Moreover, when submitting your fully certified English version, you must attach a photocopy of the original document for verification.
Court Approved Translation Services
Court-approved translation services are the providers from which a country’s judiciary accepts legal translations. Legal translation is a technical field requiring knowledge of unique terms in source and target languages.
Therefore, not all providers can accurately translate court documents. So, courts only approve translation services that are familiar with the niche of legal documents.
Document notarization is sometimes necessary, so an approved service must have a notary public. Since judicial matters are sensitive, confidentiality is a necessary criterion. But don’t worry; finding a translation service for court documents isn’t difficult.
Most certification bodies and registries have directories containing legally approved translators. You can visit your state court to ask for recommendations or make inquiries from a federal court.
The American Translators Association (ATA) also identifies legal translators in different locations. The National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators (NAJIT) can also recommend proficient legal translators.
Government Approved Translation Services
In the U.S., the Office of Language Services has a translating department. This division translates documents for the White House and other government institutions. Their skilled translators offer services in 140 language pairs.
Some government agencies also have in-house translators who sometimes assist individuals with translations upon demand. However, there are many procedures for accessing free translation from a government translator.
The increasing number of immigrants makes it impossible for government translators to help everyone. So, professional translation companies that adhere to regulations are government-approved translation services.
Hence, you can hire a translation company. However, you must find a legitimate service. You can confirm an agency’s credibility through recommendations, feedback, and reviews. Most U.S. government translation services translate for the federal, state, and various government departments.
But it’s better to hire a company qualified to translate for multiple governments as you might need other international services. Hence, a legitimate service like Rapid Translate, which provides USCIS and United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI), is excellent.
This agency also provides Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Federal Office For Migration and Refugees (BAMF) translations.
FAQ
How do I know if my translation service is certified?
You can check a translation service’s website and reviews to confirm if it’s certified. You could also use Rapid Translate, which is popular for providing certified translations.
Who can certify a translation in the U.S.?
In the U.S., the document translator certifies translations. However, a translation company or another translator can also review and certify a translated document.
What is an accredited translator?
An accredited translator is someone who has passed the licensing exams of a professional accreditation body in the translation industry.
What is an accredited translation?
An accredited translation fulfills the certification requirements in its country of use. It also confirms the translation’s accuracy, making it suitable for official use.
Translations Approved by Academic Institutions
The number of international students in the U.S. keeps increasing. These students must translate their documents to process study applications. However, some educational institutions have preferred translators they approve of.
Using an approved translator guarantees acceptance. Therefore, intending international students often wonder which appropriate translation service to patronize. The best way to find out is to check the school’s website or send an inquiry.
However, note that translation agencies are service providers with high approval and acceptance rates. No agency, body, or institution, whether public or private, has rejected a translation because it came from a translation company.
Rather, the terms of rejection for translation agency jobs relate to inaccuracy, inefficiency, and failure to meet requirements. Note that these issues stem from procedural errors within an agency. So, try to locate an experienced translation agency near you.
However, you can also visit an online agency that offers approved translation services. When making contact, look for an agency with a certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Additionally, an ATA membership proves competence. Agencies that offer USCIS, court, and government-approved translations highlight this on their website. So, be on the lookout.
But to simplify things, you can patronize Rapid Translate, a modern translation service provider that ticks all the boxes above. We’re a one-stop solution for all your translation needs. Moreover, we offer quality translations with a high acceptance guarantee.
Place your order for efficient translations that will help you reach your goals!
