USCIS stands for United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. USCIS provides a number of forms that are filled out by people who are looking for any sort of immigrant status or benefit. The number of available forms can sometimes create confusion, and it is highly recommended to understand the working of U.S. immigration system. This saves much of your time and prevents your application from facing rejection. Following are some useful insights into USCIS immigration forms.
Availability of formsUSCIS immigration forms are readily available on its official site, http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis, in PDF format. These forms offer the ability to fill them out and submit online by typing the required information directly into the forms. USCIS forms also offer mail order and phone ordering at 1-800-870-3676. Most of these forms are completely free, so make sure to check if there are any associated fees prior to filling one out and submitting it.
Filling fees and fee waiversMany of the USCIS immigration forms require the payment of filling fees. These nominal fees are sent with the application when the form is submitted for approval. Example fees include the fingerprint fee if, and are payable to the Department of Homeland Security. USCIS also provides for applicants of some immigration benefits to apply for a fee waiver in case they are unable to pay the filling fees.
Signature requirementsMake sure that you sign the form while applying for any immigration benefit. The signature provided must come from the individual that is applying. In the case of children below the age of 14 years or others who are incompetent or unable to sign the forms, a legal guardian may sign the form instead. In such a case, the proper documents confirming the legal guardian's status are required for inclusion with the mailed forms.
Remember to send your photographs with the form if it is required. Failing to provide a photograph when one is required may result in a delay in processing time or even a complete rejection. Always double check that everything that is asked for is provided.
USCIS forms are very simple to fill out if one knows the working of the immigration system properly. The authorities have done a great job of making them accessible to the public, so use their services to the fullest advantage, and always ensure that forms are both filled out correctly and that any additional documentation is included when necessary.
