Certified Translations
Certified Document Translation Services in Massachusetts
When you submit a document to a U.S. government agency, a court, a university, or an immigration office, and that document is in another language, you cannot simply translate it yourself. You need a certified translation: an accurate, word-for-word translation accompanied by a signed statement confirming its completeness and accuracy. TBS Tax Services provides certified translations between English and Portuguese for the individuals and families we serve in Stoughton, Hyannis, and across Massachusetts.
From birth certificates and marriage licenses to diplomas, court orders, and financial records, we make sure your translated documents meet the strict standards required by USCIS and other authorities, so your application is not delayed or rejected over a translation issue.
What Is a Certified Translation?
A certified translation is a complete, accurate translation of a document accompanied by a signed certificate of accuracy. That certificate is a formal statement from the translator confirming that they are competent to translate between the two languages and that the translation is true and complete to the best of their ability. The certification typically includes the translator’s name, signature, the date, and contact information.
A certified translation is not the same as a casual or machine translation. It carries legal weight because the translator takes responsibility for its accuracy, which is exactly what government agencies and courts require.
When Do I Need a Certified Translation?
You need a certified translation whenever you submit a foreign-language document to an authority that requires official English versions. The most common situations include:
- USCIS immigration applications (green cards, visas, citizenship, asylum)
- Birth, marriage, and divorce certificates for legal or immigration use
- Academic transcripts and diplomas for schools or credential evaluation
- Court documents and legal filings
- Financial and tax documents
- Driver’s licenses and identity documents
What Does USCIS Require for a Certified Translation?
USCIS requires that any document not originally in English be submitted with a full English translation, along with a certification from the translator attesting that the translation is accurate and that they are competent to translate. USCIS does not accept translations done by the applicant themselves or by close family members, because of the built-in conflict of interest. As of recent updates, USCIS applies stricter formatting and accuracy standards, and an incorrect or incomplete translation can result in a Request for Evidence (RFE) that delays your case by weeks or months. Using a professional certified translation service from the start is the best way to avoid that outcome.
What Is the Difference Between a Certified and a Notarized Translation?
These two are often confused, but they are not the same. A certified translation includes the translation plus a signed statement about its accuracy and the translator’s competence. A notarized translation adds a notary’s seal, which verifies the identity of the person signing the certification, not the quality of the translation itself. For USCIS, the certification is what matters, notarization is generally not required. Some other agencies or foreign authorities may request notarization. Because TBS Tax Services offers both certified translation and notary services, we can provide whichever combination your specific situation requires.
Can You Translate Documents Between English and Portuguese?
Yes. English and Portuguese translation is one of our core specialties, reflecting the community we serve. We translate documents in both directions, English to Portuguese and Portuguese to English, and we understand the specific document types and formatting that Brazilian and Portuguese authorities, as well as U.S. agencies, expect. This local, bilingual expertise means your translation is not just linguistically correct but also formatted the way the receiving authority needs it.
Certified Translations FAQ
Can I translate my own documents for USCIS?
No. USCIS does not accept translations completed by the applicant or by close family members, due to the conflict of interest. Translations must be done by a qualified third party who certifies their accuracy and competence. A professional service is the safest choice to avoid rejection or a Request for Evidence.
How long does a certified translation take?
Turnaround depends on the length and complexity of the document. Common civil documents like birth or marriage certificates are often completed quickly, while longer legal or academic documents take more time. Contact us with your document details for a specific timeline and quote.
What happens if USCIS rejects my translation?
If a translation is incomplete or incorrectly certified, USCIS typically issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) rather than denying the application outright. An RFE can add weeks or months to your processing time. Submitting a correct, professionally certified translation from the start is the best way to prevent this.
Does a certified translation need to be notarized?
Not usually. For USCIS, a signed certificate of accuracy is what is required, not notarization. However, some courts or foreign authorities may request a notarized translation. We offer both certified translation and notary services, so we can meet whatever your specific requirement is.
What documents do you translate?
We translate birth, marriage, and divorce certificates, diplomas and academic transcripts, court and legal documents, financial and tax records, identity documents, and other personal, legal, and business documents between English and Portuguese.
How much does a certified translation cost?
Cost depends on the type, length, and complexity of the document. Contact us with your document details and we will provide a personalized quote before starting any work.
Need your documents translated accurately and accepted the first time? Our bilingual team is ready to help!
Under 10 minutes or less!