Arabic Divorce (Talaaq) Decree Translation for U.S. Immigration
When do you need certified translation of your divorce paper from Arabic to English?
If you are marrying an American and got divorced before, then U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS, formerly Immigration and Naturalization Service - INS) asks you to submit “certified translation” of your certificate of divorce.
Certified translation of your divorce paper is requested before you apply for fiancé visa (K-1 or K-2) or marriage visa. Some immigrants bring “certificate of single” to prove that they are not currently married. However, this certificate is primarily for those who have never married before.
Courts in the United States also require certified translation of your Arabic divorce (“talaaq” or “talaq” also used in Urdu language) decree when you apply for marriage.
Divorce procedures are different in Arabic countries
Only husband is allowed to divorce, not wife. Husband can divorce his wife permanently end marriage ("nikah") after saying “I divorce you” three times (triple talaaq). So, divorce is verbal and does not need to be in writing. Divorce happens even if husband spells these words accidentally or in his sleep. Malaysia allows divorce by sending text message (SMS) spelling these three words or “Talaaq.”
If a man wants to re-marry his ex-wife, then wife must marry another man before re-marriage.
Who issues divorce decrees in Arabic-speaking countries?
In general, Islamic "Shariah" or "Sharia" courts issue divorce decrees in Arab countries.
Husband does not need the presence of Imam who conducts marriage (nikah) to get divorced. He does not even need to have any witness to make his divorce valid and effective. Divorce decree is issued by Shariah court in the absence of wife. Some husbands consult “ulema” to get advice about divorce.
How can you get your certified divorce decree translation from Arabic to English?
We provide Certification by Translator document on our corporate letterhead with our authorized signature and raised (embossed) corporate seal with a statement as required by the USCIS and other agencies and organizations.
Notarization, in addition to certification, is not required by USCIS or U.S. Passport Agency. However, you may need notarization if you are not in the United States and applying to consulate office of the American embassy.
