If you’re preparing to file an application with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, make sure that all your forms are accurate and up-to-date, as even a small error can complicate the process and even cause rejection.
The agency has recently warned applicants that outdated immigration application forms will no longer be honored. This reminder came a month after the grace period for using older versions ended on June 3, 2024.
Consider consulting with a lawyer for immigration issues in NY to increase your chances of success. A lawyer can review your application for accuracy and completeness and represent your interests with USCIS.
Key points to remember
Before you submit your application, double-check that you are using the latest forms. Be sure to do the following to verify that you have the correct documents:
- Check the edition date on the USCIS website for each form.
- Look at the bottom of each form page for the edition date.
Also, make sure that all pages of a form belong to the same edition. Using pages from different versions may result in your application being rejected.
Clarifying the grace period
The USCIS updated a long list of immigration forms on April 1, 2024, to reflect changes in immigration policies and procedures. To allow for adjustments, the agency allowed the use of both old and new forms until June 3, 2024. However, only the new form versions are accepted after June 3, 2024.
Note that the USCIS has a strict policy against outdated immigration forms. Using the latest versions is crucial to avoid application rejection.
What you need to do
The USCIS shares some things you can do to ensure smooth application processing and avoid rejections:
- Download forms only from official sources. You can get them from the USCIS’ official website. Avoid using older downloaded versions and those that come from third-party websites, as they may contain outdated information or may even be corrupted.
- Stay updated. Check the USCIS website regularly for advisories about changes in forms that apply to your case. Better yet, sign up for email updates. Our immigration lawyer can also share the latest information about form changes with you.
- Thoroughly review all your forms before you submit them. Check the bottom of every page on the application form and ensure all pages are up-to-date. Read all instructions carefully and take the time to complete all fields. Make sure to pay the correct fees, too.
- File correctly. Follow the USCIS’ latest guidelines for proper filing methods and locations. Moreover, remember to include all the necessary supporting documents to avoid delays.
Are you filing forms online?
You’ll need a USCIS account to submit new immigration forms online. Create an account using a valid email address (which becomes your username) and a strong password. The USCIS recommends enabling two-factor authentication for enhanced security. This requires you to enter a one-time code sent to your email or phone number each time you log in to verify your identity and prevent unauthorized account access.
After logging in, select “File a Form Online” and carefully complete all required sections. Be sure to complete all sections of the form, including those requiring a signature or specific answers. This includes fields marked “N/A” or “zero.” You can also attach supporting documents and digitally sign the form online.
Do note that not all forms can be filed online because some cases require additional documentation or biometric information that cannot be processed electronically. This means that you will be asked to file the paper version of the form, even if it’s available for online filing. For example, if you requested a fee waiver, you must file the paper version.
It’s also crucial to understand the filing fees associated with every form. The total fees you have to pay vary depending on the form and whether you intend to file by mail or online. Certain exemptions can also affect the total cost. Check the USCIS’ filing fees and fee schedule pages, and consult our immigration lawyer for advice, further guidance, or to learn more about the current exemptions.
And if you need more tips and advice from a lawyer about immigration in NY, set an appointment with us here at Berd & Klauss, PLLC. Call 212-461-7152 or send a message to [email protected]. Our immigration firm is ready to assist you with any concerns about completing and filing complex immigration forms and navigating the USCIS application process.