For filings in immigration court, documents must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation. EOIR also specifies information that the translator certification must contain.
Keep the source document with the translation
Do not keep translations in a separate folder with no connection to the originals. Use a simple structure:
- source document;
- English translation; and
- translator certification.
Give the group one evidence ID so it remains together when the file is indexed.
Preserve all pages
If the original contains stamps, handwritten notes, seals, backs of cards, or continuation pages, preserve them. A translation should not become a substitute for keeping the source document.
Do not assume every agency uses identical filing rules
EOIR court rules, USCIS form instructions, and consular procedures may have different submission details. Check the instructions for the exact form or proceeding before filing.
Why this matters for an evidence organizer
A reviewer should be able to move from the English translation to the exact source document immediately. Clear pairing also reduces the chance that a translation is accidentally submitted without its certification.
Official sources to verify
Important: This article is general educational information, not legal advice. Immigration rules and procedures can change. Check the current official source and speak with a qualified immigration lawyer or DOJ-accredited representative about your situation.
Put your records into a working file
Use the Free Evidence Preparation Checklist to identify the records you already have and the Complete Evidence Preparation Workbook to build a chronology, evidence inventory, gaps list, and attorney handoff packet.