Learn About USCIS Forms and Processes

Understanding USCIS and Its Role in Immigration

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is a government agency that processes immigration benefits and services. USCIS was created in 2003 as part of the Department of Homeland Security. The agency handles millions of cases each year related to visas, work permits, green cards, citizenship, and other immigration matters.

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USCIS operates through more than 200 field offices across the United States, as well as international offices. The agency employs over 19,000 people who review cases, conduct interviews, and make decisions about immigration requests. In fiscal year 2023, USCIS received more than 12 million applications and petitions.

One important thing to understand is that USCIS processes applications on behalf of individuals, families, and employers. The agency doesn't decide who can come to the United States—Congress makes those laws. USCIS follows the rules Congress sets and applies them to individual cases. This distinction matters because it means USCIS follows specific legal requirements when reviewing any case.

The main types of cases USCIS handles include petitions for family members, employment-based visas, refugee and asylee claims, naturalization (citizenship) applications, and various other immigration benefits. Each type of case follows a different process and requires different forms and supporting documents.

Practical Takeaway: USCIS is the federal agency responsible for processing most immigration benefits. Knowing that USCIS is part of the Department of Homeland Security and understanding its basic role helps you know where to find official information and understand how the system works.

How USCIS Forms Work and Why They Matter

USCIS uses specific forms for different types of requests. Each form has a number and title that describes what it's used for. Forms are the official documents that start most immigration processes. Without using the correct form, USCIS cannot begin reviewing a case. Forms contain questions about background information, family relationships, work history, and reasons for the immigration request.

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Common USCIS forms include the I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), used by citizens and permanent residents to sponsor family members; the I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker), used by employers to sponsor workers; the N-400 (Application for Naturalization), used to become a U.S. citizen; and the I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), used to request permission to work in the United States. There are more than 100 different USCIS forms in total, each serving a specific purpose.

Forms can be filed in different ways. Many forms may be filed online through USCIS's online system called myUSCIS. Some forms must be mailed to a USCIS address. Other forms must be filed in person at a USCIS office. The instructions that come with each form explain where and how to file it. These instructions are very important—they tell you exactly what documents to include, where to send the form, and what fees to pay.

Each form has a version number and date. It's important to use the current version of the form, not an old one. Old versions may not be accepted. The USCIS website shows the current version of every form, and the date appears in the lower right corner of the form. Forms are updated when laws change or when USCIS modifies its processes.

Practical Takeaway: USCIS forms are the starting point for most immigration processes. Always use the current version of the correct form for your situation, read all instructions carefully, and file it according to those instructions. Using the wrong form or an outdated version can delay your case.

The USCIS Case Processing Timeline and What to Expect

Processing times for USCIS cases vary widely depending on the type of case, the USCIS office handling it, and current case volume. USCIS publishes processing times online for each field office. In 2024, some forms are processed within weeks, while others take many months or even years. For example, family-based petitions sometimes take 18 months to several years, while work authorization requests may be processed in weeks to months.

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After filing a form, USCIS sends a receipt notice within 5 to 10 days, though this timeframe varies by office. The receipt notice has a case number and receipt number. You can use this number to check the status of your case on the USCIS website. The website allows you to see whether your case is pending, under review, or ready for the next step. You can also view your case history and any notices USCIS has sent.

During processing, USCIS may send you notices requesting additional information or documents. These are called Requests for Evidence (RFE) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID). These notices explain exactly what information or documents USCIS needs and give you a deadline to respond—usually 85 days. It's important to respond to these notices by the deadline with complete and accurate information.

Most cases require an interview. The interview notice tells you when and where to go. During the interview, a USCIS officer asks questions about the information in your form and reviews your documents. After the interview, USCIS makes a decision. You receive a notice in the mail explaining whether your case was approved or denied. If denied, the notice explains the reasons for the denial.

Practical Takeaway: Processing times vary by case type and office, so check the USCIS website for estimates specific to your situation. Monitor your case using your receipt number, respond promptly to any requests for information, and prepare for your interview by reviewing the information on your forms.

Required Documents and Supporting Evidence for USCIS Cases

Every USCIS case requires supporting documents to prove the facts stated in your form. These documents back up your claims and help USCIS officers make decisions. The types of documents needed depend on the type of case, but common documents include birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, passports, medical examination results, police background checks, and financial documents.

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Birth certificates must be official certified copies, not photocopies or faxes. Similarly, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and other vital records must be certified copies from the government office that issued them. For documents from outside the United States, you may need to get an Apostille, which is an official certification that the document is genuine.

For family-based cases, USCIS requires proof of your relationship. This might include birth certificates showing the same parents, marriage certificates, adoption papers, or other official documents. For employment-based cases, you need job offer letters, educational credentials, and proof of work experience. For citizenship cases, you need proof of how long you've been a permanent resident, documents showing you've physically been in the United States, and sometimes proof of English ability and knowledge of civics.

Documents in a language other than English must be submitted with an English translation. A certified translator must sign a statement saying the translation is accurate and complete. The translator doesn't have to be a professional translator—anyone fluent in both languages can do it—but they do need to sign a certification statement.

Financial documents are required for many cases. For family sponsorship, the U.S. sponsor must show they have enough income to support the family member. This is proven using tax returns, W-2 forms, pay stubs, and bank statements. For employment cases, employers must show the job offer is genuine. USCIS wants originals or certified copies of documents, though certified photocopies are often acceptable.

Practical Takeaway: Gather certified copies of vital records early, translate any documents not in English with a translator's certification, organize documents by topic, and follow the form instructions about which documents to include. Not including required documents is a common reason cases are delayed.

Understanding Fees, Biometrics, and Medical Examinations

Most USCIS forms require a filing fee. In 2024, USCIS form fees range from about $85 for work authorization forms to $640 for citizenship applications. Some people may not have to pay fees based on income level—the form instructions explain who qualifies for a fee waiver or reduction. If you request a fee waiver, you must provide financial documents showing your income.

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Many USCIS cases require you to go to a USCIS office for biomet