Immigrant Visa Interview - Original Documents (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Original documents

What original civil documents are required for an immigrant visa?

You and each family member accompanying the applicant to the United States must obtain the following original documents or certified copies of the documents from an appropriate authority (the issuing entity).

All documents that pertain to your petition are required, even if you previously submitted them to the USCIS with your petition.

Do my civil documents need to be translated to English?

All documents not in English, or in the official language of the country where you are applying for an immigrant visa, must be accompanied by certified English translations. 

The Translation must include a statement signed by the translator that states that the:

  • Translation is accurate, and
  • Translator is competent to translate.

If I previously submitted a civil document to US Citizenship and Immigration Services, do I need to submit it to the Department of State as well?

All documents that pertain to your petition are required, even if you previously submitted them to the USCIS with your petition.

What if I am unable to obtain a civil document?

Additional information on obtaining civil documents or what to do if a document is unobtainable are available by clicking on the following links or by contacting the National Visa Center.

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