When you’re preparing for a visa or immigration application, it’s tempting to cut corners where you can.

Many applicants turn to DIY translations using free tools or even their own language skills. After all, why pay for something you think you can do yourself?

But here’s the reality:

Immigration authorities almost always reject DIY translations – and the consequences can cost you weeks or even months of delays.

(Indeed, official authorities such as USCIS and the UK Home Office explicitly prohibit self-made or family translations.)

Why DIY Translations Fail

There are two main reasons immigration authorities reject self-made translations:

1. Lack of Certification
Agencies like USCIS, the UK Home Office, or the Australian Embassy require a certified translation. That means the translator must provide a signed Statement of Certification (also called a Certificate of Accuracy) confirming the translation is complete and accurate.

A DIY or AI-generated translation doesn’t come with this certification, so it’s automatically non-compliant.

2. Risk of Errors
Even if you’re fluent in Japanese and English, immigration documents use highly specific legal and official terminology. A small error –a date formatted incorrectly, a mistranslated stamp, or a missing detail– can make your translation invalid.

Machine translation tools like ChatGPT or Google Translate are especially risky since they may miss nuances or context.

Real-World Example: Certified Japanese-to-English Translation vs. AI

One applicant recently submitted documents translated by AI for their Australian visa. The formatting looked great, but the application was rejected because:

• Machine translation is not accepted for certified translation purposes.
• No certification statement was attached.

After the rejection, the applicant turned to professional certified translation services at SAECULII TRANSLATION JAPAN. Once resubmitted with a proper certification, the documents were accepted – but the delay cost the applicant an additional three weeks.

How to Avoid Rejection

The good news? Avoiding rejection is simple:

• Use certified Japanese translation services – Always choose a professional translator who can provide a signed Statement of Certification.
• Check compliance – Make sure your provider understands the requirements of USCIS, UK Home Office, Australian Embassy, or whichever authority you’re applying to.
• Plan ahead – Don’t wait until the last minute. Certified translation takes time, and a rushed job can lead to mistakes.

The Bottom Line: Certified Japanese Translation Saves Time and Stress

DIY translations may save money upfront, but they often lead to rejection, wasted effort, and missed opportunities.

By choosing a trusted Certified Translation Services, you ensure your documents are accurate, compliant, and accepted the first time.

Ready to avoid delays? Get started today with a quote – Certified Japanese-to-English Translation