You can translate official documents yourself in some situations, but in most official or legal contexts, it’s not allowed. Here’s a breakdown by situation:

✅ When You Can Translate Documents Yourself

In very informal or internal uses:

• Translating documents for your own understanding

• Internal use within a company, if not submitted to authorities

• USCIS (U.S. immigration): Technically, anyone except the applicant can translate, but the translator must certify the translation with a formal statement of accuracy.
  ⚠️ So you can’t translate your own documents for USCIS.

❌ When You Cannot Translate Them Yourself

You cannot translate your own documents if they are to be submitted to:

• Courts

• Immigration services (like USCIS, if you’re the applicant)

• Universities or credential evaluation services

• Government agencies

• Foreign embassies or consulates

These typically require:

• Certified translation

• Sometimes notarization

• Or even translation by a sworn translator (in countries like France, Spain, or Germany)

🔒 Why Self-Translation Isn’t Accepted Officially

• Conflict of interest: You’re not considered impartial

• No guarantee of accuracy or accountability

• Lack of proper certification statement or credentials

✅ What You Can Do

If you’re bilingual and confident in your translation:

• Translate the document yourself first to save time/money

• Then hire a certified translator to review, correct, and certify it

Let me know what country or institution you’re submitting to, and I’ll tell you exactly what they require.