Maybe you are asking yourself, “Does my translated document need to be certified?” The answer lies in the purpose of your document. If it is a personal document, most likely not, if it is a legal document such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc., yes.
What is the difference between a ATA (American Translation Association) Certified Translator and a “Certified Translation”?
Certified Translators are translators who have passed the challenging 3 hour exam provided by the American Translation Association. This Certification allows a client to be assured that the level of proficiency and professionalism is at its very highest, as well as the price. However depending on the text or document that you need translated you may not necessarily need an ATA Certified Translator but a “Certified Translation”. A “Certified Translation” according to the U.S.C.I.S. Website is ” a certification from the translator verifying that the translation is complete and accurate, and that they are competent to translate from the foreign language to English.”
For all documents that you prepare for a case with USCIS, it is necessary that each one include a certification from the person translating it, stating that they are proficient in both languages and that the translation of that document is correct and true.
As a consumer, it is important to be informed. Cheaper is not always better, and more expensive doesn’t always mean you are getting the best quality. Make sure that you find a translator you can trust to translate your text or document and discuss what legal requirements are needed for that translation.