Turkish Translation for Your Green Card
Uğur Arı — sworn translator, Istanbul · Updated August 22, 2026
Every Turkish document submitted with a green card application requires a certified English translation under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3). This typically includes a birth certificate, marriage certificate, criminal record, and any prior divorce decree. Certified PDF by email within 24 hours. From $24.90 per page.
Documents by green card type
Petition filed by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident for a Turkish spouse, parent, or child. Required translations: birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree (if either party was previously married), and criminal record.
Filed in the U.S. to convert a non-immigrant visa to a green card. Requires the same civil document translations as the I-130 plus the passport biographical page. A nüfus kayıt örneği (civil registry extract) may also be requested.
In addition to civil documents, employment-based green cards may require degree certificates and transcripts translated into certified English for credential evaluation and USCIS review.
DV applicants must submit certified translations of Turkish civil documents at the consular interview stage. Birth certificate and criminal record are almost always required; marriage and divorce documents are required if applicable.
USCIS translation requirements
Under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3), every foreign-language document submitted to USCIS must be accompanied by a full English translation. The translator must certify in writing that they are competent to translate and that the translation is accurate and complete.
Key points: no notarization required, no apostille required, and the translator does not need to be government-licensed in the United States. A sworn Turkish translator — such as a yeminli mütercim registered with a Turkish notary — meets this standard.
A see our dedicated page on USCIS certified translation requirements →
What Turkish documents need to be translated for a green card?
For most green card applications, USCIS requires certified English translations of your birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), divorce decree (if previously married), and criminal record (adli sicil belgesi). For employment-based green cards, educational diplomas and transcripts may also be required.
Does USCIS require certified translations for a green card?
Yes. Under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(3), any foreign-language document submitted to USCIS must be accompanied by a certified English translation. The translator must sign a declaration of accuracy and competency.
Do I need an apostille on my Turkish documents for a green card?
No. USCIS does not require an apostille for documents submitted with immigration petitions. A certified English translation with the translator's signed declaration is all that is needed. See also: apostille and USCIS translation explained →
How long does Turkish translation take for a green card application?
Most Turkish civil documents are completed within 24 hours. The certified PDF is delivered by email. Larger document sets (5+ pages) may take 48 hours. Contact us for rush requests.
Can I use e-Devlet documents for my USCIS green card application?
Yes. Documents obtained from e-Devlet — such as birth registry extracts or family registry (nüfus kayıt örneği) — are official Turkish government documents and are accepted by USCIS when accompanied by a certified English translation.
Document requirements vary by petition type and officer discretion. This page is general information — confirm specific requirements with your immigration attorney.