Marriage is one of the most important decisions a person can make in life. For people in many different countries, it is an important moment to document and preserve.
Marriage certificate translations ensure that the marriage is legally valid in various countries, and potentially in many other contexts. It is important to understand the details of the process, including who can provide the translation, what the documents need to include, and the cost of the service.
So let’s dive in and take a look at everything you need to know about it!
What is a Marriage Certificate Translation?

A marriage certificate translation is a document that accurately translates the original document from one language into another.
It is important to have the translation done professionally. The translator must be certified and experienced to handle government-related documents like marriage certificates.
The translation may also need to be notarized for certain government organizations. So, ensure that this is clearly communicated with the translation service before submitting your request.
Who Needs Marriage Certificate Translations?
The importance of the translation of marriage certificates cannot be overstated.
If you plan a destination wedding and want to get married abroad, the certificate must be translated for legal purposes. And if your soulmate is from another country, then you may need to translate their marriage certificate. That way, your marriage will be recognized in your country.
Translated marriage certificates are required for the couple to file for important legal documents, such as visas and green cards, and to receive benefits from government institutions. Furthermore, marriage certificates are used to verify a couple’s identity and marital status in many international situations.
Marriage Certificate Translation for USCIS
If you and your partner are applying for a Green Card through marriage, it is crucial that all documents submitted to the USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) be translated into English as part of the application process.
What do you need for a marriage certificate translation to be accepted by USCIS? Here’s what you should know:
- The translation of marriage certificates must be certified. This means that each document translation must include a signed statement (Certificate of Translation Accuracy). It vouches for the translator’s competency in translating the document from the source language into English;
- In addition, the statement provides information about the translator’s credentials, such as his full name and signature. There is also contact info in the event that USCIS requires clarification regarding the certified translation. The translator will be held liable if anything is found to be incomplete or incorrect;
- All translated documents must include both the source language version and the target version side-by-side. A page of signed certification should follow each page of translated text;
- Typed translations are required for submission to USCIS (not written). They must have the same format as the original.
By doing this, you can ensure that USCIS has all the information they need to accept your marriage certificate and keep your immigration process moving forward.
How to Choose a Translation Service?
Finding a service to translate a wedding certificate is no small feat. After all, the translation must be legally accurate and accepted by all relevant governing bodies. That’s why it’s important to weigh all your options before deciding.
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a translation service:
- Certification:
Look for a business that is certified by a national or international authority, such as ATA (American Translators Association). This level of certification ensures that you’re getting an exceptionally reliable translation.
- Experience:
Choose a service that has extensive experience in marriage certificate translations—this will ensure high-quality end results. It’s important to find an agency that has been in business for years and is aware of the specific requirements for USCIS documents. Additionally, an experienced provider can provide legal advice on what documents you need for the process to be completed correctly.
- Service Quality:
Find a company that provides friendly customer service, fast turnaround times, and secure storage of documents. If you have any questions or concerns, you will want a friendly customer service team that’s willing to help.
- Cost:
Make sure you’re getting the best value for your money by doing your research and comparing prices.
- Reputation:
Read reviews from past customers to get an idea of how reliable the company is. This will give insight into how well each translator completes their tasks and how quickly they respond to inquiries.
Professional translation companies provide an expert understanding of the various language nuances. Enlisting marriage certificate translation services, is highly recommended. Wordspath is here to help. Our team of professional translators has the expertise and knowledge required. What’s more, we always work with diligence and attention to detail.
The Process of Translating a Marriage Certificate
Are you wondering how to translate a marriage certificate? It’s important to understand the process of getting your document translated properly, so you know what to expect.
It typically involves the following steps:
Step 1: Submitting your original marriage certificate and requesting a translation: You will need to submit the original marriage certificate in order to have it translated.
Click here to submit your document
Step 2: Start translation: Upon we get your document, our professional translator will start to work on it. We will deliver the translated marriage certificate as soon as possible, and some rush needs can be done in one day.
Step 3: Check that all information is accurately translated: We then will double-check the translation, to ensure that the document has been correctly translated all of your personal details into the target language, as well as any other relevant information on the document, such as dates, addresses, and more.
Step 4: Double-check spelling and grammar: Before submitting your documents, it’s still important to double-check for spelling errors or incorrect grammar before submitting your documents. You don’t need to worry about mistakes.
Step 5: Desktop publishing: Our professional DTP team will start to typeset the document when the document get translated, to ensure all typesetting and details are the same with your original certificate.
Step 6: Receiving the translated document: Once the translation is complete, it should be sent back to you for review prior to submission. You will see if it meets all requirements for acceptance by authorities in other countries.
Step 7: Get verified and notarized to claim the accuracy: An authorized professional must verify and notarize the document in order for it to be accepted as valid in many countries. We will deliver a verified claim document with stamp together with well-translated marriage certificate to you.
Translating a marriage certificate is a relatively straightforward process. Although the cost and time can vary depending on the language, the procedure is typically fast and cost-effective.
Marriage Certificate Translation Form
When you apply for an immigration benefit with USCIS, you may need to file a marriage certificate translation form. This could be for visas, status adjustments, naturalization, or other immigration benefits.
Specifically, if you need to prove that your marriage is real and valid, then USCIS will require you to translate the marriage certificate to English.
The form should include:
- Your full name and contact information;
- Your spouse’s full name and contact information;
- Information on the document being translated (i.e. country of origin);
- A copy of the original marriage certificate in its native language;
- The translated version of the original marriage certificate;
- The translator’s certification of the accuracy of the translation.
Make sure the form is filled out correctly and submitted with all the required documents.

FAQ’s about Marriage Certificate Translation
Getting a marriage certificate translation can be tricky—if you’re not sure where to start, then here are the answers to some of the most common questions about marriage certificate translations.
Q1: What Information Does a Marriage Certificate Include?
The official document that proves the union of two people is called a marriage certificate.
It should not be confused with a marriage license, which is a document that allows you to get married in the United States and is obtained prior to the ceremony.
- Typically, marriage certificates include:
- Couple’s names;
- Date and place of marriage;
- Marriage witnesses;
- Details about any previous marriages.
The information is likely different for each country, so ensure that you speak with your translator for more specific details about what needs translating.
Q2: How Much Does It Cost?
It really depends on how fast you need it, and the size of the document. Generally, it’s best to get an estimate from a professional translator, as they’ll know how much time and effort is required for a particular job.
Q3: Can I Translate My Own Documents for USCIS?
The answer is not likely—any document sent to USCIS needs to be translated by an expert translator. In fact, you are not allowed to translate your own immigration documents at all.
Q4: Can the Document Be Translated by My Friend for USCIS?
The document cannot be translated by your friend, even if they are native speakers of both languages. Otherwise, it may cause a conflict of interest and rejection. To meet USCIS requirements, you must therefore obtain a certified translation of the document.
Q5: Can I Use Google Translate Tool to Translate A Wedding Certificate?
While Google Translate might help you in your everyday life, it’s not acceptable to translate a marriage certificate. This useful online tool doesn’t meet USCIS document translation requirements.
Q6: What Distinguishes Certified Translations From Certified Translators?
When someone advertises themselves as a “certified translator,” they have demonstrated their proficiency in the language in a professional capacity by passing an exam. Not every nation requires translators to be certified, and not every nation offers a certification exam. A signed declaration attesting to the translation’s completeness and accuracy is included in a certified translation
Q7: Where Can I Translate My Marriage Certificate?
There are plenty of services out there to help you accomplish this. We, at Wordspath.com, guarantee that all the necessary information will be accurately communicated and that nothing will be lost in translation.
Q8: Is an Apostille Stamp Required?
In many cases, you may need to get an apostille stamp in addition to a certified translation. An apostille is an authentication of the document’s signature or seal that has been issued by the US Department of State or a comparable agency in another country. When it comes to apostilles, keep in mind that each nation has unique requirements; therefore, prior to submitting your documents, ensure that you verify these requirements.
You might also like: immigration documents translation for USCIS
Conclusion
The key is to make sure that you’re getting a reliable translation that meets your needs. Whether you use an online translation service, a translation agency, or a professional translator, specializing in marriage certificate translations, ensure that the final product is what you’ve been looking for.