Free assessment tool
Free Translation Requirements Checker
Find out exactly what you need before you submit. In about two minutes you get service requirements, pricing guidance, timeline estimates, and an optional risk review for existing translations.
Why Most Translation Rejections Are Preventable
Most rejected translation submissions fail for procedural reasons, not because the source document is unusual. The common problems are consistent: missing Certificate of Accuracy language, inconsistent name spelling, and translations that skip stamps or handwritten annotations. These issues are predictable and avoidable. The challenge is that most applicants do not know the rules until after they submit, which can trigger requests for evidence and reset review timelines.
Requirements also vary by destination. USCIS, a university admissions office, a court clerk, and a foreign civil authority can each ask for a different documentation package. Ordering the wrong service often means paying twice and losing weeks or months. A fast pre-check helps users avoid this by mapping their destination, document type, and source language to a clear service plan before purchase.
This tool is designed to reduce ambiguity at decision time. Instead of making users guess between certification, notarization, or apostille, the wizard turns that uncertainty into a concrete recommendation with rationale. If a user already has a translation, the optional risk phase adds another layer of protection by highlighting rejection patterns that are frequently overlooked in self-review.
What This Tool Checks
The checker has two connected phases. Phase 1 focuses on requirements discovery: where the document will be submitted, what type of document it is, and what language it is in. From those three inputs, the tool produces a requirements summary with estimated pricing and turnaround. This is useful for first-time applicants who need confidence before ordering.
Phase 2 is optional and intended for people who already have a translation. It asks seven practical compliance questions in plain language and calculates a risk score from low to high. The score is accompanied by specific issues and actionable guidance so users know whether to submit as-is, request corrections, or order a new guaranteed translation. This approach keeps the flow low-friction for new users while still serving advanced users who need a quality checkpoint.
Common Requirements by Situation
| Destination | Document Type | Certified Translation | Notarization | Apostille |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USCIS / Immigration | Any | Yes | Usually no | No |
| University / College | Diploma, transcripts | Yes | Usually no | No |
| Court / Legal | Any | Yes | Often yes | No |
| DMV | Driver's license | Yes | No | No |
| Employer / Background | Any | Yes | No | No |
| Foreign Government | Any | Yes | Sometimes | Often |
| Not sure | Any | Yes | Recommended | Case by case |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need notarization for USCIS certified translation?
For most USCIS filings, notarization is not required. USCIS generally requires a complete translation plus a signed Certificate of Accuracy. Notarization may still matter for court or foreign authority submissions.
Is this checker free to use?
Yes. You can complete the requirements and risk assessment flow at no cost. We only ask for your contact information before showing final results and sending your PDF report.
How accurate is the risk score?
The risk score is based on common rejection patterns: missing certificate language, name mismatch, incomplete translation, and unclear translator credentials. It is a practical screening tool, not legal advice.
Can I use the tool if my document has more than one language?
Yes. The wizard supports multi-language documents. You select primary and secondary languages, and recommendations are generated based on the primary language and destination requirements.
What happens after I submit my contact details?
You instantly see your results on-screen and can download a PDF copy. If your risk level is high, your case can be prioritized for immediate specialist follow-up.
Ready to Order?
If you already know what you need, place your order directly. If you want a risk check first, run the free assessment and get the exact service path.