Fill out a form, attach supporting documents and a fee, then mail to the government for processing. Many individuals believe filing an application or petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is just that simple. In reality, the process is must more complicated, and mistakes can be costly. Individuals who attempted to file their own petition or application to USCIS have made simple mistakes that delayed a process by years or even led to a denial. Working with an immigration lawyer can lessen some of the common mistakes made when completing these complicated USCIS forms. There are minor mistakes with significant impact that can be avoided through careful preparation using the tips below.

Answer Questions According to the Instructions

Read the instructions for each form you intend to complete and file. Follow the instructions when filling in the forms. Each USCIS form has instructions provided by the agency to help with filling in the correct information. The instructions are found on the same web page as the form itself. Although this sounds simple, the USCIS forms can be complicated to understand if you are not used to completing such forms. It is worth it to take the time to read the instructions before filling in any information.

Proofread All Forms Before Filing

Having to correct information contained on a USCIS form can be a tedious process. It can also delay the overall time it takes for USCIS to process your application or petition. This is especially true where there was an error made in the spelling of a name, a social security number, A-number, or address. In fact, USCIS has been known to deny requests where it believes information is inconsistent with its records and cannot be confirmed. Or USCIS may send a Request for Evidence seeking additional information or documents to clarify a simple mistake. If USCIS does not receive a timely and relevant response to a Request for Evidence, the entire request can be denied.

Avoid delays in your process or even denial of your request by thoroughly proof reading every form filed with USCIS. It may take some extra time to prepare your documents but ensuring the form is completed accurately will save more time and money in the long run.

Do Not Use an Outdated Form

This tip pertains to filings submitted to USCIS in paper format. If filer uses the USCIS online form, the current version of the form is provided automatically.

Sometimes, if they previously filed the same application or petition, a family member or friend will provide a USCIS form. Do Not Use That Form. While that individual probably means well and wants to be helpful, the best method to obtain a USCIS form is directly from USCIS. Why? Because USCIS updates its forms regularly and downloading the form from the USCIS website will ensure use of the current version of the form. USCIS will reject a filing if any of the forms are not current. Then, the current version of the form must be completed and resent to USCIS, delaying the process and causing the applicant/petitioner to incur further expense.

Submit Passport-Style Photos in the Correct Format

USCIS requires recent passport-style photographs for many of its applications and petitions. The photos submitted must meet a very specific criteria to be accepted by USCIS. The specifications used by USCIS can be found here. USCIS can return an entire filing package or prevent a request from being submitted online if the photos provided do not meet these specifications. Have photos taken by an individual familiar with the U.S. Government requirements for passport-style photos.

Provide the Correct Fee Amount

Because USCIS sometimes charges different fees depending on the age of the individual; category of eligibility; or a certain combination of forms being filed together, determining the correct fees required for a filing can be confusing. Fortunately, USCIS does have a fee calculator build into its website which helps individuals determine the correct fee amount. It is important to use this fee calculator before submitting a package to USCIS, even if you believe the fees are straightforward. A submission to USCIS can be rejected due to incorrect fees. If the applicant or petitioner is unable to pay the filing fee and qualifies for a fee waiver, the fee waiver form (I-912) should be submitted instead of a check, money order, or credit card payment form. However, if the fee waiver is denied, USCIS will not begin processing application or petition until the appropriate fee is paid.

Mistakes in the preparation and filing process with USCIS can be avoided by relying on the expertise of Vizar Law, PLLC. Our attorney, Lauren A. Vizar will complete the USCIS form associated with your matter and carefully package your supporting documents to maximize your chances of success. Schedule a consultation to begin your journey with expert guidance and dedication to your immigration matter.