Introduction
If you are applying for a U.S. immigration benefit, USCIS generally requires a complete English translation of any document submitted in a foreign language, along with a certification from the translator.
In Japan, birth records are commonly documented through the family register (Koseki Tohon or Koseki Shohon). Depending on the circumstances, a Certificate of Acceptance of Notification of Birth (Shussei Juri Shomeisho) may also serve as evidence of birth.
At Chariot Global Office (CGO), we provide certified Japanese-to-English translations of birth-related documents and family registers for USCIS applications. Each translation includes a translator’s certification of accuracy, completeness, and competence.
Whether you need a translation for a family-based immigration petition or another USCIS application, we can help you prepare the English translation of your Japanese documents.
What Does USCIS Require?
USCIS requires that any document containing a foreign language submitted with an application or petition be accompanied by:
- A complete English translation of the foreign-language document.
- A certification from the translator confirming that the translation is complete and accurate.
- A certification confirming that the translator is competent to translate from the original language into English.
These requirements are established under 8 CFR §103.2(b)(3).
Submitting documents without the required translation and certification may result in a Request for Evidence (RFE) or other processing issues.
Documents Commonly Used as Birth Records in Japan
Unlike some countries, Japan generally documents births through its family registration system rather than issuing a standalone birth certificate in the same format.
According to the U.S. Department of State, the following Japanese documents may serve as evidence of birth for U.S. immigration purposes:
- Koseki Tohon (Zenbu Jiko Shomeisho) – A complete family register containing information about all individuals recorded in the register.
- Koseki Shohon (Kojin Jiko Shomeisho) – An extract from the family register containing information about a specific individual.
- Certificate of Acceptance of Notification of Birth (Shussei Juri Shomeisho) – An official certificate issued by a Japanese municipal office confirming the acceptance of a birth notification.
The appropriate document depends on the applicant’s circumstances and the requirements of the specific immigration process. Applicants should check the relevant USCIS instructions or U.S. Embassy or Consulate guidance before obtaining and translating their documents.
Can I Translate My Own Birth Certificate?
USCIS does not explicitly prohibit applicants from translating their own documents under its general translation regulation, 8 CFR §103.2(b)(3).
However, any translation submitted to USCIS must be complete and accurate and accompanied by a certification confirming the translator’s competence to translate from Japanese into English.
Applicants should also check the instructions for their specific immigration application, as additional requirements may apply.
To help avoid translation errors or incomplete certifications, many applicants choose an independent professional translation service.
At Chariot Global Office (CGO), we provide Japanese-to-English translations with a signed translator’s certification for USCIS applications.
How Long Does Translation Take?
At Chariot Global Office (CGO), the standard turnaround time for Japanese-to-English document translation is two business days after payment confirmation.
For larger or more complex documents, additional time may be required. We will confirm the estimated delivery date before proceeding.
Our translation service includes:
- Pricing: Starting at ¥4,400 per standard A4 page.
- Turnaround: Typically two business days.
- Certification: Includes a signed translator’s certification.
- Delivery: PDF delivery is available nationwide in Japan.
- Communication: English-language support is available.
If you have an urgent deadline, please contact us before ordering to confirm availability.
Get a USCIS-Compliant Translation
Need a certified Japanese-to-English translation for your USCIS application?
Chariot Global Office (CGO) provides translations of Japanese family registers (Koseki Tohon and Koseki Shohon), birth-related certificates, and other official documents.
Our service includes a signed translator’s certification confirming the translation’s accuracy and completeness.
We serve clients throughout Japan, including U.S. military families, international residents, and applicants preparing immigration documents.
Request a free quote today. Send us a copy of your document and your preferred deadline. We will review your request and confirm the price and estimated turnaround time before proceeding.
Related Articles
