Even though there are computers available with all the various tools this doesn’t mean that everything can be done using this type of technology. If you see a webpage, Facebook link, or product description in a language you don’t understand it’s not too difficult to translate the document using an online tool such as Google Translate. It’s remarkably quick once you know how to use it. The main problem with these types of tools is that they are simply not accurate enough for anything other than a rough translation.
A human translator is needed for an official document translation
If you try using an electronic tool to translate an official document you could end up in court if the translation is poorly done and a misunderstanding takes place. If you think you can get away with copying and scanning a birth certificate or a marriage certificate destined for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (U.S.C.I.S.) by putting it through Google Translate it won’t pass the test.
For a start, the translation won’t be accurate and the requirement by the U.S.C.I.S. is to place the translated words in exactly the same place on the translation as is found on the original document. Google Translate can’t do this and nor can it certify to say the translation is accurate. If you try to take this shortcut don’t be surprised if your application is delayed while you are asked to get a new translation.
There are many documents that may need an official document translation including
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce papers
- Degree and diploma certificates
- Contract documents
- Annual reports
- Warranty documents
- References
An official document translation is a tricky translation to do because the translation has to be identical in layout to the source document. Sometimes it’s difficult for the translator to produce a translated document that is a mirror image of the source document as the number of words used in the translation may be more or less than those found on the source document. The only way around this is to hire a translator who has a high degree of experience in translating official documents. This will ensure the translation will be accepted by the receiver.
Don’t do your own official document translation
If it’s an official document you have that needs translating and you are getting the translation for a government authority, bank or potential employer don’t attempt to do your own translating but hire a competent translator from Cinch Translation whose translations always pass the test with flying colors.
However, competent you are in English the USCIS will not accept a translation that has been done by an applicant. Of course, you can be the proofreader of your translation before it’s sent off but not the translator.
You will be rewarded once all your official document translation has been finally approved by the USCIS and you are on the way to a new life in America. Just exercise a bit of caution and choose the best official document translation services you can find and then you will not feel the need to proofread the translation when it has been handed to you.
You can’t sacrifice quality when the final reward may be a visa to the U.S. for you and your family.
