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How do I organize multiple translations of the same document?

How to preserve a foreign-language original, multiple English translations, and translator certifications without mixing or deleting versions.

Published August 24, 2026Last reviewed August 24, 2026General information
Not legal advice.US Asylum Help provides general information, research links, and organization tools. We do not determine eligibility, deadlines, strategy, evidence sufficiency, or what anyone should say or file in an individual immigration matter.

How do I organize multiple translations of the same document?

Last reviewed: August 24, 2026

General information only. Follow the current translation rules of the agency or court receiving the document.

Keep the foreign-language original as the anchor file. Store each translation beside it, with the translator's certification and date where required. Use filenames such as PoliceReport_original_es.pdf, PoliceReport_translation_en_2026-08-20.pdf, and PoliceReport_certification_2026-08-20.pdf.

If two translations differ, preserve both. Do not delete the earlier version merely because a later translator chose different wording. Create a note identifying the disputed phrase and let a qualified representative decide whether clarification is needed.

EOIR currently requires documents filed with immigration court to be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation. Its Policy Manual specifies information that must be included in the translator certification. Check the current rule before filing rather than relying on a saved template indefinitely.

Official sources

Preserve the source document and every filed translation as part of the permanent case record.

Official sources & current information

Verify changing requirements at the source.

This section identifies government links contained in this guide. The government page, form instructions, court notice, or other controlling document should be checked for current requirements.

U.S. Department of Justice / EOIRjustice.govU.S. Department of Justice / EOIRjustice.gov
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