Certified Translation Services in Washington, DC

Certified translations are required whenever an institution must rely on the accuracy of a translated document for legal, administrative, or professional decisions. This applies to submissions involving federal agencies, educational institutions, employers, and international authorities.

Our certified translations are prepared according to established U.S. standards and include a signed Certification of Translation Accuracy.

What Is a Certified Translation

A certified translation is a complete and accurate English translation of a document accompanied by a signed statement confirming that the translation is faithful to the original.

The certification identifies the translator or translation company responsible for the work and confirms that the translation can be relied upon for official review.

What a Certified Translation Includes

A certified translation typically includes:

• A complete translation of all text
• Translation of stamps, seals, and handwritten notes when present
• A signed Certification of Translation Accuracy
• The date and the translator or company identification

Common Reasons Translations Get Rejected

Documents are often rejected due to:

• Missing certification statements
• Partial translations that omit stamps or notes
• Inconsistent spelling of names across documents
• Poor-quality source copies that obscure key details

Proper certification and formatting help prevent delays or resubmission requests.

When Certified Translation Is Required in Washington, DC

Clients in Washington, DC most commonly require certified translations when:

• Submitting documents to U.S. immigration authorities
• Providing records to federal or governmental institutions
• Applying to universities, training programs, or academic reviewers
• Submitting documents for employment, licensing, or professional review
• Preparing documents for use by foreign authorities or organizations

In these situations, uncertified translations are typically not accepted.

Certified Translation for Immigration Documents

U.S. immigration authorities require certified English translations for all documents issued in a foreign language. This requirement applies nationwide and is independent of the applicant’s location.

Documents commonly requiring certified translation include:

• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificates
• Divorce decrees
• Police or civil records
• Other personal or legal documents requested during the immigration process

Certified translations prepared for Washington, DC clients are accepted throughout the United States.

Certified Translation for Academic and Professional Review

Certified translations are frequently required when foreign education, credentials, or professional records must be reviewed by U.S. or international institutions.

Documents commonly translated include:

• Diplomas and degree certificates
• Academic transcripts
• Enrollment or graduation records

Certified translation ensures evaluators can rely on accurate and consistent information.

Documents Most Commonly Submitted for Certified Translation

Washington, DC clients most often request certified translations for:

• Personal civil documents
• Immigration-related records
• Academic and educational documents
• Official records for professional or governmental review

How Long Certified Translation Usually Takes

Processing time depends on document type and volume. Standard personal or academic documents are typically completed within a few business days once clear copies are provided.

More complex or multi-page documents may require additional processing time to ensure accuracy and proper formatting.

Serving Washington, DC and the Surrounding Area

We work with individuals and organizations in Washington, DC and the surrounding metropolitan area, including Arlington, Alexandria, Bethesda, and Silver Spring.

Certified translations are provided remotely and prepared for official use in the United States and abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a certified translation if I live in Washington, DC?
Yes. Certified translations are required whenever documents in a foreign language are submitted for official review, regardless of location.

Are certified translations accepted outside the United States?
Yes. Certified translations prepared according to U.S. standards are commonly accepted by foreign institutions, depending on destination requirements.

Can certified translations be prepared remotely?
Yes. Certified translations do not require in-person visits and can be delivered electronically or by mail.

What makes a translation certified?
A signed statement confirming the accuracy and completeness of the translation and identifying the responsible translator or company.

Getting Started with Certified Translation in Washington, DC

If you are unsure whether your documents require certified translation or need confirmation of the correct format, assistance is available to help you prepare your documents properly.

Certified translation helps ensure your documents are reviewed and accepted without unnecessary delays.