Can I Translate My Own Documents for USCIS and IRCC? (And Why You Shouldn’t)

When submitting immigration applications to USCIS in the United States or IRCC in Canada, one of the most common requirements is that all supporting documents must be in English (or French for Canada). If your original documents are in another language, you must provide a translation that meets strict guidelines.

This is where many applicants ask: Can I translate my own documents? On the surface, it might seem like an easy way to save time and money. After all, who knows your own documents better than you? Unfortunately, when it comes to immigration authorities like USCIS or IRCC, self-translation is a serious risk — and in most cases, it will not be accepted.

Let’s look at why self-translating is not recommended, the official requirements, and the benefits of using a certified translation service.

1. What USCIS and IRCC Require for Translated Documents

Both USCIS and IRCC have clear policies about translated documents.

For USCIS, any document in a foreign language must be accompanied by a full English translation and a certification by the translator affirming that the translation is complete and accurate, and that the translator is competent to translate. Importantly, the translator cannot be the applicant, petitioner, or any family member directly involved in the application.

For IRCC, the rules are similar. If your documents are not in English or French, you must include:

• The translation of the entire document

• A copy of the original document

• An affidavit from the person who completed the translation (if they are not a certified translator)

In both cases, self-translation usually fails to meet these requirements because you cannot objectively certify your own work.

2. Why Self-Translation Is Not Accepted

There are several reasons immigration authorities reject self-translated documents:

Lack of impartiality – Immigration officials need assurance that translations are neutral and unbiased. A personal interest in the outcome of the application can compromise this impartiality.

No independent certification – Certification means a third party confirms the accuracy of the translation. When you translate your own documents, you cannot issue a valid independent certification.

Increased risk of errors – Even if you are fluent in both languages, small mistakes in terminology, date formats, or legal terms can cause confusion or raise red flags.

Non-compliance with format requirements – Professional translators are familiar with the exact formatting USCIS and IRCC expect, which reduces the risk of your documents being refused.

3. Risks of Translating Your Own Documents

Choosing to self-translate can lead to serious consequences for your immigration application:

• Processing delays – If your translation does not meet the requirements, authorities will request a corrected version, pushing your application back by weeks or even months.

• Application refusal – Incomplete or uncertified translations can result in outright rejection.

• Extra costs later – If your self-translation is rejected, you will need to pay for a professional translation anyway, wasting both time and money.

• Loss of credibility – Poor or biased translations can affect how immigration officers view your entire application.

4. Benefits of Using a Certified Translation Service

A certified translation service ensures your documents meet all USCIS or IRCC standards from the start.

• Compliance – Certified translators know the exact legal requirements and formats that immigration offices demand.

• Accuracy – Professional translators are trained to handle complex terminology and ensure every detail matches the original.

• Certification Statement – You receive an official declaration of accuracy, signed and dated by the translator or translation company.

• Faster approvals – Submitting compliant translations reduces the risk of delays.

• Peace of mind – You can focus on other parts of your application, knowing your translations are done correctly.

5. How DocsBase Canada Can Help

At DocsBase Canada, we specialize in USCIS and IRCC-compliant translations. Our translators are experienced in working with immigration-related documents such as:

• Birth certificates

• Marriage certificates

• Diplomas and transcripts

• Police clearance certificates

• Court documents

We provide certified translations accepted by both U.S. and Canadian immigration authorities. Each translation comes with a signed certification of accuracy, and we ensure fast turnaround times without compromising quality.

With years of experience helping applicants worldwide, DocsBase Canada offers a secure, professional, and reliable solution for all your translation needs.

Final Thoughts

While it may be tempting to translate your own documents for USCIS or IRCC to save money, doing so can cause unnecessary delays or even result in your application being refused. Immigration processes are time-sensitive and highly regulated. Using a certified translation service is not just safer — it’s the smart choice.

By trusting your translations to experienced professionals like DocsBase Canada, you can ensure your documents meet all official requirements the first time, giving you the best possible chance for a smooth and successful application.