Free requirements checker
Do you need a certified translation — and what kind?
Requirements, price, and turnaround for your document — in two minutes.
Why it matters
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 — and every one of them is avoidable if you know the rules before you submit:
Missing Certificate of Accuracy
The signed translator statement USCIS looks for first. Without it, the packet bounces on formal grounds.
Name spelling mismatch
Names that differ from the passport spelling create identity inconsistencies — a frequent trigger for RFEs.
Skipped stamps & annotations
Seals, stamps, and handwritten notes must be translated or noted. Silence about them reads as incomplete.
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 you avoid this by mapping your 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 you guess between certification, notarization, or apostille, the wizard turns that uncertainty into a concrete recommendation with rationale — and if you already have a translation, the optional risk phase highlights rejection patterns that are frequently overlooked in self-review.
Under the hood
What This Tool Checks
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 pricing and turnaround — the confidence a first-time applicant needs before ordering.
Rejection-risk check
For people who already have a translation: seven practical compliance questions in plain language, scored from low to high risk. The score comes with specific issues and actionable guidance — submit as-is, request corrections, or order a guaranteed replacement.
Cheat sheet
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 |
This table is the general pattern — your exact requirements come from the checker above, tailored to your answers.
FAQ
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 — completely. Your plan appears on screen the moment you answer the last question, with no account and no contact information required. If you want a copy for later, you can optionally have the plan emailed to you as a PDF.
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.
Can I get my results by email?
Yes. Your plan shows on screen instantly — no email needed to see it. If you would like a copy for later, enter your email on the results screen and we send the full plan with a PDF attached. Ready to proceed? One click carries your answers into the order form, so there is nothing to re-enter.
Sources
Official Sources
The recommendations above follow the published rules of the receiving authorities — not our opinion. Read them at the source:
Know what you need? Order it in two minutes.
Certified translation at a flat per-page rate, delivered in 24 hours, USCIS acceptance guaranteed. Not sure yet? Run the free check above first.