Tips for Filing Immigration Forms by Mail

Many U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) forms can now be filed online. To reduce processing delays, it’s important that immigration forms be filed following USCIS guidelines to ensure your application, petition or request package for processing is filed accurately and completely.

USCIS Filing Tips

Accuracy and Completeness:

• Complete forms accurately and sign in the designated space.
• Use the current form edition downloaded and printed from the USCIS website.
• Don’t mail forms already submitted online.
• Write clearly with black ink and ensure form edition dates and page numbers are visible.
• Complete all form sections unless instructed otherwise. Start over with a new form for errors.
• Avoid highlighters, correction fluid, or tape.
• If filing multiple forms, use consistent identifiers across them.
• Pay the correct fee using the Fee Calculator. Send separate payments for multiple filings.

Assembling Your Package:

• Order: Check/money order or credit card authorization, e-Notification request (optional), attorney notice (optional), main form, supplements, supporting documents.
• Documents: Submit listed documents, English translations if required, legible copies of official documents, no originals unless requested.
• Page size: Single-sided, standard 8½ x 11 letter-size.
• Do not submit digital media, photo albums, scrapbooks, or binders.
• Mark photos with your name and number support pages.
• Retain supporting documents not initially submitted for potential later request.

Marking and Mailing:

• Mark envelope and cover letter with filing nature and form number.
• Avoid binders, heavy staples, sticky tabs (at service centers). Use fasteners or clips for bulky filings.
• Separate multiple cases in the envelope.
• Attach Request for Evidence notice on top of resubmitted packets.
• Include a cover letter with “Brief for (Appeal/Motion)” for supporting evidence in appeals/motions.
• Use the address listed on the specific form’s webpage and mail via USPS, FedEx, DHL, or UPS.
• Save payment and tracking information for recordkeeping.
• Mail to the correct address to avoid rejection and resubmission.
• Download unavailable online forms from the Forms by Mail page.

Remember:  A simple mistake on your immigration documents could lead to USCIS delaying your application or even rejecting it. An experienced immigration attorney can help ensure your application is accurate and complete, and help you manage your immigration process.

Download Our Free Guide:
Top 13 Immigration Mistakes To Avoid When Filing Paperwork

Don’t Take Chances With Your Future: Call Godoy Law Office

Call us when you’re ready to hire an immigration attorney. The experienced immigration lawyers at Godoy Law Office offer assistance in immigration matters, including citizenship,  business and family-based visas, green cards and deportation defense. To talk to an immigration lawyer, please contact our office at 630-345-4164.

AREAS WE SERVE: Godoy Law Office Immigration Lawyers helps clients in all 50 states and has 3 offices in the Chicago, Illinois area.