Recently, an insightful statistic was shared on the official LinkedIn account of the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman. It revealed that nearly 600,000 petitions submitted to USCIS are rejected each year due to simple yet critical mistakes, such as missing signatures or incorrect application fees on checks. Given that these issues can cause problems now and in the future, we’ve dedicated this week’s blog to addressing the most common errors seen throughout the USCIS application process, from preparation to submission. We hope you find it helpful.
1. Choose the Right USCIS Application Form
The first step in the USCIS application process is ensuring you select the right form. There are various forms, each serving a different purpose depending on the type of application. For example, you’ll need Form I-485 for Green Card applications, Form N-400 for citizenship applications, and Form N-600 for a citizenship certificate. Be sure to verify that you have the correct form by checking the official USCIS website before submitting your application.
2. Use the Most Current Version
USCIS frequently updates its application forms, and using an outdated version can lead to your USCIS application being rejected. While grace periods are often provided during transitions, they are not guaranteed. For instance, recent changes to Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) had almost no grace period. Before applying, download the latest version from the USCIS website. If you are applying online, the system will guide you through the most current form, but it’s especially crucial to double-check if you’re mailing your application.
3. Complete Your USCIS Application Forms Accurately and Fully
Another essential step is to complete the form thoroughly. Leaving sections blank can result in your USCIS application being marked as incomplete and, ultimately, rejected. If a question doesn’t apply to you, fill it in with “N/A” (Not Applicable) or “None.” Whenever possible, use uppercase letters for clarity.
4. Remember to Sign and Make Others Sign
One of the most frequent errors is forgetting to sign the form. Applications without signatures are automatically rejected. Before submission, double-check the signature fields to ensure all required areas are signed. This includes signatures from legal representatives, translators, petitioners, beneficiaries, household members, sponsors, and any other relevant parties. For electronic applications, make sure your e-signature has been correctly applied.
5. Pay the Correct USCIS Application Fee
Paying the right fee amount is critical. Incorrect payments—whether too much or too little—can lead to rejection. Since USCIS application fees can change, always confirm the current rates on their official website before paying. Additionally, ensure that your payment method (check, money order, or online) is appropriate.
6. Ensure Accurate Information on Payment Checks
If you choose to pay by check, make sure it is filled out correctly and addressed properly. An incorrectly completed check can lead to your USCIS application being denied. For example, checks must be made payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security," without abbreviations.
7. Mailto the Correct Address
A common issue with mail-in applications is sending them to the wrong address. USCIS uses different Lockbox locations based on the type of USCIS application and the applicant’s state. Always verify the correct mailing address on the USCIS Lockbox locations page before sending your documents. There are separate Lockbox addresses for USPS and other shipping services, so pay attention to these distinctions.
8. Include All Necessary Documents
To ensure your USCIS application is processed without delay, include all the required documents along with the form. These typically consist of identification, financial records, passport copies, and supporting documents. Missing information can cause your application to be returned unprocessed. Review the application instructions carefully to ensure everything is complete. Given the lengthy processing times, it’s best to avoid extending them further with Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
9. Translating Non-English Documents
If you need to include documents in a language other than English, they must be translated and certified by a sworn translator. USCIS only accepts English versions of documents, so having certified translations signed by a sworn translator can help prevent delays or rejections in your USCIS application.
10. Equivalence of Required Documents
For USCIS applications, especially visa applications, certain documents like birth certificates need to have equivalents recognized by the U.S. Ensure that the documents you submit are valid in the U.S. For instance, birth certificates from some countries may not be accepted. For more details, refer to the U.S. Department of State’s reciprocity page for country-specific information.
11. Sponsorship and Income Requirements
Some immigration applications require a sponsor to provide financial support. For example, family-based Green Card applications require sponsors to meet a certain income level above the federal poverty line, as set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. These limits are updated annually, and the sponsor's income must meet the necessary threshold. Household size and active military service can also affect the requirements. For details, visit the USCIS Sponsorship Income Limits page.
12. Submitting Medical Examination Reports
Immigration applications, especially Green Card applications, may require medical examination reports (Form I-693). The report must be prepared by a USCIS-authorized doctor. You can submit the medical report in two ways:
- Send in a Sealed Envelope: The authorized doctor will provide your medical report in a sealed and signed envelope. Do not open it—send it to USCIS with your application materials.
- Submit Later: Alternatively, you can send the report separately. However, this may prompt a Request for Evidence (RFE), and you will need to send it within a specified time frame. To expedite your application, we recommend including the medical report with your initial submission.
13. Track Your USCIS Application and Stay Updated
To keep tabs on your application status, use USCIS’s online case tracking system (Case Status Online). Enter your receipt number to check the progress and act quickly if there are any updates. If you have a registered email address with USCIS, enable automatic notifications for timely updates on your USCIS application.
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14. Provide Additional Documents When Necessary
USCIS may request additional documents to verify your information. For instance, financial information might need to be supported with bank statements, tax returns, or pay stubs. Submitting these documents early can help your USCIS application get processed faster and more efficiently.
15. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Submit
Each step in the immigration process has specific deadlines. For instance, filing for a status change close to the expiration of your stay can be problematic. Submit your USCIS application well before the deadline to avoid rushing and to ensure your information is accurate, which can help speed up processing times.
16. Seek Professional Assistance with Your USCIS Application
While the USCIS process is designed to be completed by the applicant, immigration law is inherently complex. Recent trends like crimmigration have created overlaps with other legal disciplines, such as criminal law and corporate law. Consulting with an expert can often save you time, effort, and even money. Consider professional representation and consulting services to avoid potential mistakes and make the best use of your resources during your USCIS application process.
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Onal Gallant Bayram & Amin PC is a law office specializing in Real Estate Law, Intellectual Property, Corporate and Business Law, Immigration Law, and US Visa Processes. We provide reliable advice on topics like forming a corporation, buying a house in the US, trademark registration, and Green Card applications (e.g., EB3 Visa or DV Lottery). Our experienced lawyers are ready to help with exceptional knowledge and insight into immigration law.
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