A Guide to the New I-601A Stateside Waiver of Unlawful Presence for Immediate Relatives of United States Citizens.
On January 2, 2013, the United States Department of Homeland Security announced that illegal immigrants who are immediate relatives of United States Citizens (spouse, child between 17 and 21, or parent of a child over 21) but are unable to apply for a green card from within in the United States because they entered the United States without inspection and would be subject to a 3 or 10 year bar for unlawful presence if they departed the United States to apply for a green card at a United States Consulate in their home country, can submit a Form I-601A Application for a “Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver” while they are still in the United States. The I-601A is available only to an individual whose sole basis of inadmissibility to the United States would be the 3 or 10 year bar for unlawful presence if they departed the United States. The Immigration Service will accept these applications effective March 4, 2013 from immigrants with approved immediate relative petitions.
The Old Rule
An immigrant who entered the United States without inspection, a term that usually means simply walking across the border illegally, could not apply for a green card in the United States even if they were married to a United States citizen, except under certain rare circumstances. There was a special law first enacted in the 1990s called 245(i) that allowed many illegal immigrants to apply for a green card as long as a family or labor petition was filed for them before a certain deadline. The deadline was eventually set to April 30, 2001, and for that reason, the 245(i) law helps very few immigrants today. So, immigrants who were not eligible to file their green card applications in the United States were required to leave the country and apply for what is known as an “ extreme hardship waiver” at the Consulate. Very few immigrants willingly left the United States and their families to apply for a waiver in their home country because it could take more than a year for the application to be processed and as they would be stuck in the home country for 10 years if their waiver application was denied.
The New Rule
Under the new rule, the immigrant must still leave the United States, but they will only have to leave to attend an interview at the consulate in their home country if their extreme hardship waiver is pre-approved. Instead of waiting outside the United States for potentially more than a year for their waiver applications to be decided and risk not being allowed back for 10 years, eligible immigrants can now wait in the United States while they live with their family and eliminate the risk of not being allowed to return to the United States upon departure. This means that the time they will be required to remain outside the United States could be reduced to a couple of weeks or even days.
Who Is Eligible?
In order to be eligible to apply for the stateside extreme hardship waiver in the U.S. under the new rule, the applicant must:
Be married to a U.S. citizen (Or in some cases, immigrants between 17 and 21 years old who have a U.S. citizen parent, or immigrants who have a U.S. citizen child over 21 years old)
Have an approved I-130 family-based petition
Be present in the U.S. at the time of filing the application for the waiver
Prove extreme hardship to his or her U.S. citizen spouse or parent
Who is Not Eligible?
Immigrants who have certain criminal convictions
Immigrants who have committed fraud, for example by entering the U.S. with a fake passport through an airport
Immigrants with final deportation or removal orders from an Immigration Court
Immigrants who have already been scheduled for an interview at their consulate based on an approved family petition.
The “Extreme Hardship” Test Applied to Waiver Applications
The legal standard for the I-601A waiver is the same as it is for an I-601 waiver under the old rule, and that is “extreme hardship.” There are decisions in immigration court cases from the Board of Immigration Appeals that define “extreme hardship” as being more than the normal hardship experienced by persons who are separated from their families. This means that simply filling out the form and submitting a brief statement claiming that the immigrant’s spouse and/or parent would suffer extreme hardship is likely to lead to a denial. To maximize the chance of obtaining approval for your waiver, you should provide lengthy affidavits, present documentation from expert witnesses such as clinical psychologists and doctors supporting your extreme hardship case . If you decide to hire an attorney, Legal memorandums explaining the client’s case in light of applicable law, regulations, and court decisions can be utilized to help the Immigration Service officers to decide positively and to understand why the approval should be granted.
Where to File?
Mail your Form I-601A to the Chicago Lockbox facility:
U.S. Postal Service USCIS P.O. Box 4599 Chicago, IL 60680
USPS Express Mail/Courier USCIS Attn: I-601A 131 S. Dearborn, 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60603-5517
What is the Filing Fee?
The fee is $585. If you are younger than 79, you must also pay $85 for biometric services.
If the Department of State has already scheduled my immigrant visa appointment, how do I determine if I am eligible to submit the I-601A to USCIS?
Applicants with an interview appointment letter from the National Visa Center dated before January 3rd, 2013 are not eligible to file the Form I-601A. Only applicants scheduled by the National Visa Center on or after January 3rd, 2013 for an upcoming initial immigrant visa interview are eligible to apply for the I-601A. “Scheduled” means the date on which NVC took the action to schedule the case – not the date of the visa interview appointment. NVC dates interview appointment letters on the day it schedules a case, so refer to the appointment notification letter to see when NVC took the scheduling action.
How do I get a copy of my immigrant visa (IV) application processing fee payment receipt?
You must submit proof of payment of your IV fee with your I-601A provisional waiver application to USCIS, attaching a copy of the receipt.
Follow the instructions below to obtain a fee receipt copy:
If the Immigrant Visa Application Fee was:
Paid Online: If you paid the IV fee online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) Return to the CEAC site and print a copy of your receipt. Paid by Mail: If you paid the fee by mail to the NVC, you must request a copy of your receipt from NVC. To request a copy of your IV fee payment receipt, send an email to Esta dirección de correo electrónico está siendo protegida contra los robots de spam. Necesita tener JavaScript habilitado para poder verlo. with the subject line: "Fee Payment Receipt Request” and also include your NVC case number.
Will NVC schedule my IV interview appointment even if I submit an I-601A provisional waiver to USCIS?
No, after you submit your I-601A Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver Application, USCIS will notify the National Visa Center (NVC) that it received your Provisional Waiver application and NVC will not schedule your immigrant visa interview appointment until USCIS informs NVC of its determination about your I-601A application.
What should I do once USCIS approves my I-601A provisional unlawful presence waiver?
Once USCIS approves your Form I-601A, it will inform NVC of its decision. If NVC has received all required forms and documents for your immigrant visa case, NVC will schedule your immigrant visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate you designated and notify you of your interview appointment date. You will then need to depart the United States to attend your immigrant visa interview at the designated location. If you fail to depart and attend your immigrant visa interview, the provisional unlawful presence waiver will not take effect, and the approval may no longer be valid.
What happens if my I-601A is denied?
If your provisional unlawful presence waiver is denied, you still have a couple options:
Reapply for the Waiver in the U.S. Your application may have been denied for a variety of reasons not having to do with your basic ineligibility for the waiver. For example, you may have failed to provide evidence proving an extreme hardship or you may have made other mistakes in the application. In this case, you may want to work with an experienced attorney to help you complete a new I-601A waiver application.
Leave the Country and Apply for an I-601 Waiver. Another option may be to leave the U.S. and attend your visa interview abroad without any guarantee that you can reenter the U.S. immediately. You can then apply for an I-601 waiver for any reasons barring your entry to the U.S.
Will I be Subject to Removal Proceedings if my I-601A Waiver Application is Denied?
The I-601 waiver would allow an individual to know before leaving the U.S. whether they would have to spend three or even ten years abroad prior to returning to the U.S. I-601 waivers are generally granted to individuals who can prove an extreme hardship on their family should they be forced to remain outside the U.S. While it may seem that many eligible individuals would be excited by the prospect of this waiver, there is also some concern that if an individual applies for the waiver, that person would essentially expose their illegal status in the U.S. triggering removal proceedings.
Standard for Removal Proceedings:
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated it is focused on removing individuals who pose a threat to public safety or national security. This can include individuals who have a criminal history, has committed fraud, or is otherwise considered a threat. However, in its Final Rule, the DHS also emphasized that it does not envision going after I-601A applicants simply because they filed for a waiver and were rejected. Alternatively, if you pose a threat to health or safety, the DHS will prosecute you. It doesn’t matter if the DHS learns of the risk through an I-601A application or any other means.
PLEASE NOTE: THE ABOVE INFORMATION IS GENERAL AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS LEGAL ADVICE. FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO YOUR CASE, YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN EXPERIENCED IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY.
Para que ciudadanos o residentes legales permanentes de los Estados Unidos lleguen a establecer una relación a ciertos parientes extranjeros que desean emigrar a los Estados Unidos. Los miembros de familia que son elegibles deben esperar a que un número de visa esté disponible antes de poder aplicar para una visa de inmigrante o ajuste de estatus a un permanente residente legal.
Donde aplicar:
Todos los solicitantes que viven en los Estados Unidos o Canadá y que están aplicando para un Formulario I-130 deben someter sus peticiones en la Instalación de Chicago. Las peticiones de los Formularios I-130 hechas en las Facilidades de Chicago serán dirigidas y adjudicadas al Centro de Servicio de USCIS apropiado. Esta redirección estará basada en la dirección de residencia del solicitante.
Por revise el link “Direcciones de Aplicación Directa para el Formulario I-130, Petición para un Pariente Extranjero: listado para “Links Relacionados” en la esquina superior derecha de esta página, o las instrucciones del Formulario I-130 disponibles a través del link en la parte superior de esta página, para información específica del lugar para aplicar para su petición.
Importante: Cualquier Formulario I-130 llenado en un lugar incorrecto será rechazado.
Si un Formulario I-130 está siendo llenado junto con el Formulario I-485, Aplicación para Registrar Residencia Permanente o Ajuste de Estatus, someta ambos formularios con la cantidad de pago correcta a la Instalación de USCIS de Chicago.
E-Notificación: Si usted quiere recibir un email y/o un mensaje de texto de que su Formulario I-130 ha sido aceptado en una Instalación de USCIS, complete el Formulario G-1145, E-Notificación de Aceptación de la Aplicación/Petición y adjúntelo a la primera página de su aplicación.
Instrucciones Especiales:
Consejos Importantes para Formulación:
Lea y siga todas las instrucciones del formulario para pagos, lugares para aplicar y requisitos de elegibilidad.
Si está escrito a mano, asegúrese que todas las entradas estén nítidas y legibles.
Cuando ingresando la información en su aplicación o petición, asegúrese de mantener la información dentro del espacio o caja provista.
Use tinta negra o azul únicamente. NO use marcadores fosforescentes en su aplicación porque harán que sus materiales sean indetectables a la hora de ser escaneados.
Asegúrese que usted este usando la edición correcta del formulario. La edición correcta siempre está disponible para descarga de manera gratuita al principio de la página.
Asegúrese que los formularios impresos no tenga datos marcados en gris. Información ingresada en campos en gris no son detectables en las máquinas de escanear.
Asegúrese de proveer toda la documentación de soporte requerida y evidencia. Asegúrese que los documentos de soporte escritos en otro idioma que no sea Ingles deben ser acompañados por una traducción al Inglés.
Asegúrese de firmar su aplicación.
Asegúrese de enviar todas las páginas de la aplicación.
Si debe cambiar el formulario, le recomendamos que comience con un nuevo formulario, en vez de tratar de arreglar la información en el actual. Nuestros escáneres pueden ver a través del corrector y hacer que su formulario sea incorrecto, guiando posiblemente a retrasos en procesos o rechazo.
Asegúrese de poner el pago correcto. Los cheques deben ser hechos pagables a U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Lea las instrucciones para cada aplicación en el paquete y los pagos biométricos. Si un cheque solo es sometido para varias aplicaciones y una de las aplicaciones es rechazada, entonces todas las aplicaciones serán rechazadas. La Instalación no puede aceptar pagos mayores a lo debido o hacer reembolsos parciales.
Note que los requerimientos de los pagos biométricos varias dependiendo su edad y el beneficio para el cual está aplicando. Asegúrese que los pagos biométricos estén correctos basado en su edad y beneficio.
Servicio al Cliente
Si un formulario es rechazado y no sabe la explicación o no está de acuerdo con la determinación, por favor escriba a Esta dirección de correo electrónico está siendo protegida contra los robots de spam. Necesita tener JavaScript habilitado para poder verlo. antes de volver a someterla. Responderemos rápidamente a su inquietud. Por favor incluya el tipo de formulario, numero(s) de recibo y el nombre del solicitante y dirección en sus inquietudes. Específicamente pedimos que los Alien Numbers (A-Numbers) NO estén incluidos en el email, siendo que el correo electrónico no es una manera segura de comunicación.
Esta dirección de correo electrónico está siendo protegida contra los robots de spam. Necesita tener JavaScript habilitado para poder verlo. puede responder sus preguntas referentes a las aplicaciones y peticiones con aceptación o rechazo pendiente en la Instalación, y esas que han sido rechazadas. Una vez su aplicación haya sido aceptada, la Instalación no tiene información referente al estatus. Después de que su aplicación o petición haya sido aceptado por la Instalación, si usted tiene preguntas del estatus de su aplicación o petición pendiente, contacte al Servicio al Cliente de USCIS al (800) 375-5283 o visite el sitio web, www.uscis.gov y use el sistema InfoPass para hacer una cita con su oficina local de USCIS.
Peticiones para retirar una aplicación o petición deben ser enviadas a la oficina donde usted sometio su aplicación o petición.
Peticiones para enviar archivos a una diferente oficina deben ser hechos en la oficina que tiene su archivo. Llame al Servicio al Cliente de USCIS al (800) 375-5283 para determinar donde enviar su petición.
Lockbox no hace reembolsos. Informacion acerca de reembolsos puede ser encontrada al visitar el sitio web de USCIS y escribir Pedir Reembolso en la caja de búsqueda en la esquina superior derecha del sitio principal.
On June 15, 2012, President Obama signed a memo calling for deferred action for certain undocumented young people who came to the U.S. as children and have pursued education or military service here. Applications under the program which is called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (“DACA”) begin on August 15, 2012.
We put together the following FAQ to help answer questions about what this all means, who is eligible, and what eligible youth can do next. Please remember this is general information, we always recommend for you to consult with an immigration attorney in regards of your case.
What does “deferred action” mean?
Deferred action is a discretionary grant of relief by DHS. It can be granted to individuals who are in removal proceedings, who have final orders of removal, or who have never been in removal proceedings. Individuals who have deferred action status can apply for employment authorization and are in the U.S. under color of law. However, there is no direct path from deferred action to lawful permanent residence or to citizenship and it can be revoked at any time.
Who is eligible for DACA relief?
Individuals who meet the following criteria can apply for deferred action for childhood arrivals:
are under 31 years of age as of June 15, 2012
came to the U.S. while under the age of 16
have continuously resided in the U.S. from June 15, 2007 to the present. (For purposes of calculating this five year period, brief and innocent absences from the United States for humanitarian reasons will not be included)
entered the U.S. without inspection before June 15, 2012, or individuals whose lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012
were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making the request for consideration of deferred action with USCIS
are currently in school, have graduated from high school, have obtained a GED, or have been honorably discharged from the Coast Guard or armed forces
have not been convicted of a felony offense, a significant misdemeanor, or more than three misdemeanors and do not pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Applicants will have to provide documentary evidence of the above criteria. In addition, every applicant must complete and pass a biographic and biometric background check.
What is a significant misdemeanor?
DHS will deem as “significant” any misdemeanor involving any of the following, regardless of the sentence imposed:
burglary
domestic violence
sexual abuse or exploitation
unlawful possession of firearms
driving under the influence
or drug distribution or trafficking.
In addition, any other misdemeanor for which an applicant was sentenced to more than 90 days in jail, not including suspended sentences and time held pursuant to an immigration detainer, will be deemed a significant misdemeanor.
How old do I have to be to apply for deferred action?
In general you must be at least 15 years of age at the time you apply. The exception to this rule is if you are in removal proceedings, have a final order of removal or have an order of voluntary departure, then you can seek DACA even if you are below the age of 15.
If you were 31 years of age or older as of June 15, 2012 you are not eligible for DACA.
I am not currently in school, but would like to re-enroll in high school. Could I qualify?
Yes, to be considered “currently in school” USCIS will look to whether you are enrolled at the time you submit your application.
What types of school qualify under the DACA program?
Note, that you may be eligible even if you are enrolled in a program to obtain a GED or if you are enrolled in vocational school. The following information is pasted directly from the USCIS website:
To be considered “currently in school” under the guidelines, you must be enrolled in:
a public or private elementary school, junior high or middle school, high school, or secondary school
an education, literacy, or career training program (including vocational training) that is designed to lead to placement in postsecondary education, job training, or employment and where you are working toward such placement
or an education program assisting students either in obtaining a regular high school diploma or its recognized equivalent under state law (including a certificate of completion, certificate of attendance, or alternate award), or in passing a General Educational Development (GED) exam or other equivalent state-authorized exam.
Will a brief interruption in the requirement to be in the U.S. continuously from June 15, 2007 to July 15, 2012 affect my eligibility for deferred action?
For purposes of calculating this five year period, absences from the U.S. that are brief, casual and innocent will not be included. Absences will be considered to be brief, casual and innocent if:
it was before August 15, 2012
it was short and reasonably calculated to accomplish the purpose of the absence
it was not because of an order of exclusion, deportation or removal
it was not because of an order of voluntary departure, or an administrative grant of voluntary departure before an applicant was placed in removal expulsion, deportation or removal proceedings
the purpose of the absence, or an applicant’s actions while outside of the U.S., were not contrary to law.
Where and how do I apply for deferred action?
All applications for deferred action will be submitted directly to a USCIS lockbox on the new DACA form. Even if you are in removal proceedings or have been ordered removed, the application still goes to USCIS. If you are detained, then you should alert your detention officer that you want to apply.
What forms will I need to submit?
You must submit the following forms or your application will be returned to you:
Form I-821D Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization Document
Form I-765 WS –EAD economic need supplement form
$465 fee
Additionally you will need to submit documentary evidence that you meet all of the criteria to qualify for deferred action (age; entry date; continuous presence; educational or military documentation; etc.)
How much does it cost to seek DACA?
The total fees for the application (including an application for an Employment Authorization Document and background check) will be $465. In other words, the deferred application form itself is free but you must apply for and submit fees for the employment authorization document application and the biometrics fee.
What if I can’t pay the fees?
There will be no fee waiver available for DACA. However, there will be a fee exemption under very limited circumstances for individuals who are in foster care, are disabled, or have medical care related debt and whose income is below 150% of the poverty level.
There may, in the future, be some limited grant money available from LGBT funders, for those who cannot afford the fees. Watch this space for more information in the future.
If I am granted deferred action, will I be entitled to work?
Every individual who is granted deferred action will be lawfully permitted to work. In order to be permitted to work, you must include an application for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in your application, which, when granted, will be valid for a period of two years and may be renewed. You must wait until the EAD is issued prior to accepting employment.
If I am granted deferred action, does that mean I have acquired legal status?
The grant of deferred action does not grant legal status to an applicant. In addition, it does not cure such applicant’s previous periods of unlawful presence. However, an applicant who is granted deferred action will not be deemed to be accruing unlawful presence in the U.S. during the time period when deferred action is in effect.
If I am granted deferred action can I travel outside the United States?
You can only travel outside the U.S. if you apply for, pay the fee ($360) and receive advanced parole after being granted deferred action and before traveling. Generally advanced parole is only granted for humanitarian reasons, educational, or employment reasons. If you leave the U.S. without advanced parole being granted or before a decision has been made on your deferred action application, you will not be permitted back into the United States.
If my application for deferred action is denied, can I file an appeal?
No. A denial of an application for deferred action cannot be appealed though you could file again (and pay the fee again.)
Is there any risk in applying for deferred action?
Yes, you should only apply after consulting with a qualified attorney. If you are here unlawfully and USCIS or ICE finds that you do not meet the criteria for deferred action, you may be placed in removal proceedings. Additionally, even if you are granted deferred action, the status is completely discretionary and can be revoked in the future.
Is the passing of the DREAM Act still necessary?
Yes. Deferred action is only a temporary measure and is not intended to, and does not grant, legal status to the individuals that the DREAM Act seeks to benefit. Given that only Congress can confer the right to legal permanent resident status or citizenship, it is essential that we continue to work towards the passage of the DREAM Act.
How can I get more information?
As we learn more from USCIS we will post more information here. If you have specific questions about whether you qualify, please use the contact us page on our website to submit your question. There is also useful information on the USCIS site.
PLEASE NOTE:THE ABOVE INFORMATION IS GENERAL AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS LEGAL ADVICE. FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO YOUR CASE, YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN EXPERIENCED IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY.
Since a lot of Hispanics are going to file I-485 applications in the coming months, we decided to write an article on how to file I-485 application and also explain process AFTER filing I-485 applications.
Did you know: In EB category, only employers can file PERM and I-140 application. However I-485 application can be filed either by YOU or your employer.
If your case is simple, we recommend filing the I-485 application yourself. You can save anywhere from $1000 to $5000 or more in lawyers fees. If your case is not straight forward, then it is highly recommended to use a lawyer to review your case and help you file the I-485 applications.
Important Note: If you are outside US, do not file I-485 application. You would have to go for consular processing.
Please see below documents for filing I-485 application(s):
Documents Needed: Always send a photocopy of documents mentioned below, unless specifically mentioned that originals should be sent.
I-485 form (new edition coming soon). Remember to always use black ink, fill all section (use N/A if applicable). Remember to date and sign the form.
Form I-485A - ONLY if you are applying under status 245(i). See Filing Instructions. Fees is additional $1000
Filing Fees (see section below)
Form G-325A - Biographic Information Sheet only for applicants between 14 and 79 years of age
Evidence of eligibility:
EB category: I-140 Approval notice (or I-140 pending notice if PD is current)
FB category: I-130 Approval notice (or I-130 pending notice if PD is current)
K1 Fiance: Fiance petition approval notice + marriage certificate + Form I -94
Asylum: Copy Of letter or Form I-94 that shows date asylum granted.
Criminal History (if applicable): Please see page 3 of I-485 instruction document.
Copy of birth certificate
Copy of passport page with non immigrant visa(s)
Two identical recent passport color photos
Form I-693 Medical Examination (signed and sealed by USCIS designated physician)
Affidavit of Support OR Employment Letter
EB Category: Employment Letter - Submit letter on letterhead of petitioning employer confirming job availability and the salary to be paid.
FB Category: Affidavit of Support: Submit Form I-864
Form G-28 - ONLY if an attorney is representing your case.
Form I-765 - EAD Card for working - This is optional but highly recommended
Form I-131 - Advance Parole (AP) Card for traveling - This is optional but highly recommended
Form I-134 - Affidavit of Support, if you file as a derivative, (this applies when husband, wife and children are filing application at same time). If spouse or child reside outside US, primary applicant should file form I-824.
Form G-1145 - To receive text message or email notification. This form is optional
Latest I-94 card (copies of both sides), if applicable.
Marriage certificate (if applicable) 19. All I-797 forms - Notice Of Action received/approval of I-130/I-140 applications - optional
If you are filing form I-765 and I-131, then total photos would be six (instead of just two for I-485).
Optional documents (recommended by some law firms) photocopies only:
Tax returns for the previous two years
W-2 forms for the previous two years
Two recent pay stubs
Degree certificates
All previous EAD's including student practical training
Age: Below 14 years: $635 (only when submitted with parents application, else $985)
Age: 79 years or more: $985 only
No fees if filing under the Refugee status.
How to Pay: Either with Check or Money Order. You can submit just one (or more) Checks/Money Order. Make the check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security". Type this in FULL.
Note 1: USCIS is planning to change the I-485 form soon (though it would continue to accept current form for a while). Note 2: Always send legible photocopies for all supporting documents - unless specifically stated that original documents are required. Note 3: Any document containing foreign language shall be accompanied by a full English language translation which the translator has certified as complete and accurate. The translator must also certify he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English Note 4: Some forms may have it own (separate) filing fees.Some forms may require additional documents (e.g. EAD/AP form - each require 2 photos). Always be truthful when filing out all forms. Note 5: Always remember to (a) use black ink when filling the form(s) (b) type or PRINT words (c) sign and date all the forms. Note 6: Remember to check all forms for any errors Note 7: Remember to create similar application for spouse/children (photos, EAD/AP, birth certificate, etc). Put each application in separate envelope and then put all these envelopes into one big envelope for mailing.
Important Note: Always see the LATEST I-485 filing instruction document to see what the current requirements are for filing I-485 application. The list mentioned above can change anytime.
What if applicant received an RFE after filing I-485?
RFE stands for Request For Evidence. It means either (a) you did not submit a document needed by USCIS or (b) the document you submit is old/outdated. Once you get the RFE notice details, just send the correct documents to USCIS to process them. RFE typically have a time limit - so make sure you respond quickly.
How long does USCIS take to process RFE?
USCIS typically takes 7-10 days days to process RFE response after they received it.
Where should I-485 application be sent/mailed to?
The location to send I-485 application depends on the type and eligibility of I-485 application. It also depends on which state you live and whether you are using regular mail or express mail to send application to USCIS. Please see page 5 to 8 of the I-485 filing instruction document for complete details.
When should I-485 application be mailed?
If your PD becomes current in July 2013 visa bulletin, then make sure that your application does not reach USCIS before July 1, 2013. If USCIS receives it before that date, they may reject it and return it back to you (which could take 30-45 days). Make sure you or your lawyer (or their new assistant) does not send the application before the PD becomes current. In rare cases, they have accepted applications before the PD is current.
Tip: If your PD is current in July VB, you can send it anytime between July 1 and July 31. If your PD is still current in Aug and Sept VB, you can send it anytime between July 1 and Sept 30. All this means is that you can send I-485 as long as PD is current. You do not have to rush to send it on the very first day (or month) when the PD becomes current.
How long does I-485 processing take?
Currently the average I-485 processing time is 4 months in NSC and 8 months in TSC. So each individual case could take the same, shorter or longer than that.
How does USCIS process I-485 application?
USCIS goes by receipt date of I-485 application to process it. They do not go by PD. This does not mean that applicant A whose receipt date is earlier than applicant B will be approved earlier. There are many checks made by USCIS, FBI, etc which could take longer for some applicants. Each application could have different processing time.
Also if I-485 application is preadjudicated then USCIS will allot visas based on PD (and not I-485 receipt date).
Tip: Preadjudication means that USCIS have finished processing the I-485 application and is waiting for visa numbers (date to move forward in visa bulletin so that visa number is available). Preadjudicated cases appear in monthly demand data.
Can I be notified when USCIS takes any action on I-485 case?
Yes there are three ways: (1) Submit form G-1145 mentioned above to get notification by text or email message (2) Sign up to USCIS case status website to get text/email notification (3) You can add your case to GC Tracker and check your status from there with just one click.
What happens after I-485 application is filed?
The typical steps are listed below:
You wait for Receipt Notices - it could take around 1-4 weeks
Then you wait for FP (Finger print) notice - it could take around 3-4 weeks. If the nearest service center for FP is busy, then it could take 2+ months also. Once you get the FP notice, it will have location and date/time that you should appear to have all ten fingerprints taken. You NEED this FP notice before you can go for finger printing. If you go before/after the date listed they might ask you to come later or get a new date.
You wait for EAD/AP approval notices - it could take around 3 months.
Then finally you wait for any updates on your I-485 application 5) Either you will get RFE where USCIS asks for additional documents/proof
Or last stage is you get I-485 approval/rejection notice/alert -- should get in 4-8 months (if your PD remains current).
Some family based I-485 applications (example F2A category) will be called for interview.
Receipts/Notices in most steps above are sent to you and lawyer (assuming you used a lawyer). In case of RFE, only lawyer will get the notice (if you did not use a lawyer, it will come directly to you). The processing time listed for each step above is approximate. It could take longer or shorter time than that.
Whom does USCIS ask for interview?
Some family based applicants (such as F2A category or petitioner sponsoring spouse) are required to come for in person interview. Also USCIS may randomly decide to call other applicants (EB or other categories) for interview. Interview may also be schedule if name check (or some other background check) triggered additional verification required check from USCIS.
What about applicants who submitted I-485 in 2007?
If you have submitted your I-485 more than a year back, then most likely your case would have been preadjudicated. This means that you do not have to do anything else when the PD becomes current. USCIS will either (a) issue RFE (b) reject application or (c) approve application. If you are impatient, you can always open a service request by calling USCIS national phone number.
Can applicant change employer after filing I-485?
If the I-485 case has been pending for over 180 days then using AC-21 rule, you can switch employer. You can notify USCIS that you are switching employer; though some people decide not to do this (since USCIS could issue an RFE and request more details such as new salary, job title, location, etc).
PLEASE NOTE: THE ABOVE INFORMATION IS GENERAL AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS LEGAL ADVICE. FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO YOUR CASE, YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN EXPERIENCED IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY.
§245 of the immigration law allows persons to become permanent residents without leaving the U.S. through a process called adjustment of status. Generally, persons who entered the U.S. without being inspected by an USCIS officer, who have ever been unlawfully employed in the U.S. or who failed to always maintain lawful status in the U.S. are barred from adjusting their status in the U.S. (There are certain exceptions to the last two bars for “immediate relatives” of U.S. citizens and for certain EB applicants.)
§245(i) was first added to the law in 1994 to allow persons who qualify for green cards, but not for adjustment of status, to be able to adjust their status in the U.S. upon payment of a fine (currently $1,000). Congress phased §245(i) out of the law on January 14, 1998. However, persons who had already qualified under the law as of that date were “grandfathered” into the benefits of §245(i) for the rest of their lives. The problem was that hundreds of thousands of otherwise qualified persons who missed the January 14, 1998 deadline cannot adjust status in the U.S., and cannot return to their countries to obtain green cards without being subject to either a three or a ten-year bar from returning to the U.S. These persons (You may be one of them!) have been in a state of legal limbo since 1998.)
Congress gave a holiday present to hundreds of thousands of potential immigrants on December 15, 2000 when they extended the grandfathering date of §245(i) to April 30, 2001. Not only does this extend the benefits of §245(i) to persons who had labor certifications or visa petitions (I-130, I-140 or I-360) filed on their behalf between 1998 and 2000, but it gives persons over four months AFTER the passage of the law to qualify for the benefits of §245(i).
What must I do to qualify for §245(i)?
A person with a labor certification or a visa petition filed on their behalf on or before January 14, 1998 is qualified for the benefits of §245(i). Under the new law, a person who has a labor certification or visa petition filed on their behalf after January 14, 1998, but on or before April 30, 2001, is also qualified for the benefits of §245(i) but only if they were physically present in the U.S. on the date of enactment of the new law (December 21, 2000).
Does this mean that I must have been lawfully in the US on December 21, 2000?
No, merely that you were present, legally or illegally, in the U.S. on that date.
How do I qualify for the benefits of §245(i)?
You must have had either an employer or a relative submit a labor certification or a visa petition on your behalf prior to April 30, 2001. It is not necessary that the Labor Department or the USCIS has approved your application or petition by this date, only that it be filed. For example, if your brother, sister, father, mother, adult son or daughter, or your spouse is a citizen, or perhaps even a permanent resident, they needed to have submitted a petition on your behalf, no matter what the waiting time was in that particular category.
U.S. citizens may petition for their spouses, married or unmarried sons and daughters of any age, parents, and brothers and sisters. Permanent residents may petition for their spouses and their unmarried sons and daughters of any age (This includes sons and daughters who are divorced or widowed).
Do I have to adjust status in the same category that I was petitioned for?
No. Let’s assume that your brother (or your spouse’s brother) has naturalized. The published waiting time for a sibling petition varies from 12 to over 20 years on paper, and the actual waiting time is even longer. Still, you should have had him petitioned for you and your spouse and children immediately. The filing of a simple petition is what makes your whole family eligible for the benefits of §245(i). You are not obligated to wait 12 to 20 years to obtain a green card. If you qualify for a green card through employment, through another relative, or even through the green card lottery, because you are qualified under §245(i), you will be able adjust for status for permanent residence much more quickly. However, if you adjust your status based on a visa petition which was not the original basis for your being eligible to adjust status under §245(i), you must use your priority date.
If my wife's relative filed a petition for her on or before April 30, 2001, can we both qualify for permanent residence based upon a visa petition filed after that date? How about my children? Once they turn 21 years of age, they will not be entitled to any benefits based on this petition, will they?
You and your children are considered to be “derivative beneficiaries” of the petition filed by your wife’s relative on her behalf. This entitles not only your wife, but you and your children to the benefits of §245(i). Even your children who “age-out” by turning 21, or by marrying, will is still entitled to the benefits of §245(i) if they were “derivative beneficiaries” of a visa petition filed by your wife’s relative on or before April 30, 2001.
Conversely, if you and your wife divorce, not only will you and your children be eligible for the benefits of §245(i), but so will each of your new spouses and children, as long as the new relationships are in place prior to the time you or your ex-wife adjust status.
An INS Memorandum, dated June 10, 1999, provides excellent guidance in such situations.
What happens if my relative died? Am I still eligible?
Yes, the USCIS utilizes an “alien based” interpretation of §245(i). If a visa petition was “approvable when filed”, you are entitled to the benefits of §245(i) even if the application/petition was never approved, was withdrawn, or the petitioner ceases to exist.
Filings that are deficient because they were submitted without fee, or because they were fraudulent or without any basis in law or fact, are not considered to be “approvable when filed” and confer no benefits under §245(i).
If I qualify for these benefits, left the U.S. and return at a later time, will I still be entitled to adjust status under 245-I?
Yes. However, if you have been “unlawfully present” (a legal term of art – be sure to consult with an experienced immigration attorney) in the U.S. for 180 days or more, you may be subject to either a three or a ten-year bar to returning to the U.S. If this applies to you, DO NOT TRAVEL OUTSIDE THE U.S. UNTIL YOU BECOME A PERMANENT RESIDENT.
If I qualify for benefits under §245(i), when will my elegibility for being able to adjust status in the U.S. expires?
Never. Once you qualify for benefits under §245(i), your eligibility never expires. Of course, you must still qualify (through a relative, a job or the green card lottery) when you apply for adjustment of status. And you must be admissible to the U.S. If you have been convicted of a criminal offense, have committed immigration fraud, etc., you may be inadmissible.
PLEASE NOTE:THE ABOVE INFORMATION IS HIGHLY GENERAL AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS LEGAL ADVICE. FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION PERTAINING TO YOUR CASE, YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN EXPERIENCED IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY.
Soy extranjero ilegal y he sido victima de un crimen grave. Temo en reportar el crimen ó colaborar con la policia en la investigación.
Como victima de un crimen grave, usted califica para solicitar la Visa-U. La Visa-U concierne a los inmigrantes, incluyendo a indocumentados inmigrantes, los cuáles son victimas de ciertos crimenes graves y quienes han cooperado con las autoridades en la acusación del autor del delito. La Visa-U ó la petición 360 concedida a un inmigrante posteriormente le va a dar el estatus legal en el pais y para trabajar en los Estados Unidos.
Antecedentes
En Octubre de 2000 el congreso creó el acta de prevención de tráfico y violencia para las victimas (siglas en Inglés Act). Finalmente después de siete años con leyes provicionales, el Departamento de Inmigración y Naturalización de los Estados Unidos (siglas en Inglés USCIS), ha publicado una regulacin final acerca de las visas U, tal regulación es efectiva désde el 17 de Octubre de 2007. La Visa-U concierne a inmigrantes victimas de ciertos crimenes graves, y quienes han cooperado con las autoridades en la acusación del autor del delito.
¿Cuál es el propósito de la Visa-U?
La ley le da a la justicia la facultad para investigar, procesar, enjuiciar ciertos tipos de casos criminales, incluyendo: violencia doméstica, tráfico ilegal de indocumentados y otros crimenes y al mismo tiempo les ofrecen protección a la victimas de dichos crimenes. La ley también ayuda a las agencias judiciales a proveer asistencia a inmigrantes victimas de un crimen.
¿Qué es la Visa-U?
El acta creó la Visa-U, la cual está disponible para ayudar a los inmigrantes que llenan los cinco requisitos escritos posteriormente:
1. Ha sido victima de alguno de los siguientes crimenes:
Violación
Incesto
Violación
Abuso Sexual
Servidumbre Involuntario
Asalto Sexual
Chantaje
Secuestro
Explotación Sexual
Violencia Doméstica
Homicidio involuntario
Comercio Ilegal de Humanos (exclavos)
Extorsión
Asesinato
Tortura
Prisión injustificada
Obstrucción de la justicia
Tráfico ilegal de humano ó de drogas
Asalto agravado
Mutilación genital femenina
Perjurio
Control ilegal indevido
Soborno
Prostitution
Atento/conspiracion a cometer alguno de los delitos ya mencionados.
2. Ha sufrido un verdadero abuso mental y físico como resultado de ser una victima de los casos mencionados anteriormente.
3. Tiene información útil acerca del crimen occurido.
4. Ha colaborado o piensa colaborar, en la investigación y en la acusación del autor del delito.
5. Occurrió el crimen cometido en los Estados Unidos y violó las leyes de los Estados Unidos.
¿Cómo solicito la Visa-U?
El inmigrante debe obtener una certificación de parte de la justicia antes de solicitar la Visa-U a inmigración (Formulario I-918, todas las visas U deben de ser enviadas al servicio de Vermont).
¿Qué es una certificación judicial?
El inmigrante que ha sido victima de uno de los crimenes ya mencionados, debe de obtener una certificación de parte de la justicia federal, estatal o local, también de parte del fiscal, juez o de cualquier otra autoridad que sea responsable de la investigación y la acusación del autor del delito. Otras agencias como el Servicio de protección para el niño, la comisión de igualdad y oportunidad de empleo y el departamento de labor.
¿Hay algún formulario para la certificación?
Sí lo hay, la certificación de no migrante Visa-U es el formulario I-918, Suplemento B, la cuál debe de ser firmada y completada por la agencia o autoridad responsable de la investigación y de la acusación del autor del delito.
¿Puede otra persona que es empleado de la agencia o de la autoridad ser responsable por la investigación y la acusación del autor de delito, completar y firmar el formulario I-918?
No lo puede hacer, la persona que completa y firma el formulario I-918 debe de ser: (1) Jefe de la agencia o (2) el supervisor designado y autorizado por la agencia (autoridad).
¿Puede un inmigrante que está ahora fuera de los Estados Unidos, pero fué victima de un crimen dentro de los Estados Unidos solicitar la Visa-U?
Sí, los inmigrantes y sus familiares que son victimas de crimenes mencionados en la lista, pueden solicitar la Visa-U dentro de los Estados Unidos o fuera de ellos, solo si el crimen occurió durante el tiempo que estuvo en los Estados Unidos. El inmigrante y sus familiares pueden solicitar la Visa-U con el consulado Americano de su respectivo pais.
¿Puede algún miembro de la familia del inmigrante quien solicita la Visa-U hacer también una solicitud?
Un miembro de la familia no puede hacer su propia solicitud, pero el peticionario de la Visa-U puede solictar a su familiar en su propia petición: (1) Sí el peticinario es menor de 21 años, puede pedir a su cónyuge, hijos, hermanos solteros menores de 18 años y a sus padres; (2) Si el solicitante es mayor de 18 años puede pedir a su cónyuge y a sus hijos. El solicitante debe completar el formulario I-918 y el suplemento A, para los miembros de la familia que califiquen.
¿Hay un limite de aprobación para la Visas U?
Inmigración concede 1,0.000 Visas en cada año fiscal (del 1 de Octubre al 30 de Septiembre). El limite no concierne a conyuges, hijos, padres y hermanos solteros, los que acompañan o estan en la solicitud de la victima principal. Sí el tope del año fiscal es adjudicado, antes de que todas las solicitudes hayan sido adjudicadas, inmigración crea una lista de espera. Los solicitantes en la lista de espera van a recibir un aplazamiento (son elegibles para solicitar una autorización de trabajo y permiso para viajar) hasta que sus solicitudes sean adjudicadas al siguiente año fiscal.
¿En cuánto tiempo a un inmigrante se le otorga la Visa-U?
La Visa-U no excede más de cuatro años. Después de tres años con la Visa-U, se puede solicitar el ajuste legal en el país (tarjeta verde).
¿Puede una persona solicitar la residencia permanente, después de que se le haya concedido la Visa-U?
Sí, el inmigrante debe de haber residido en los Estados Unidos por un periodo continuo de tres años, désde la fecha de expedición de la Visa-U. Además inmigración debe determinar que la presencia continua del inmigrante en los Estados Unidos debe de esr concedida por razones humanitarias para mantener la unidad familiar, si no de lo contrario para el interés del público.
¿Hay alguna fecha limite para solictar la Visa-U?
No hay fecha limite para inmigrantes que estén solicitando la ayuda de la Visa-U en este momento. De todas formas, hay una fecha limite para inmigrantes que hayan recibido la ayuda interina de la Visa-U, la fecha limite para solicitar la Visa-U bajo las nuevas regulaciones de inmigración es el 14 de Abril de 2008.
¿Hay cuotas a pagar por la Visa-U?
No, las hay. No hay cuotas para solicitantes de Visa-U, ni para miembros de su familia. De todas formas, el solicitante y cada miembro de la familia deben de pagar una cuota de $80.00 dólares para tomarsen las huellas dactilares. Cada persona entre las edades de 14 a 79 años deben de pagar esta cuota y debe de ir incluida con el formulario. Actualmente la cuota de las huellas dactilares es de $80.00 dólares por persona. Los solicitantes que financieramente no están en capacidad para pagar dicha cuota, deben de solicitar un formulario para que se le perdone tal cuota.
Me fué concedida la ayuda interina de la Visa-U antés de promulgar la regulación final, ¿tengo que llenar un nuevo formulario ahora?
Sí, lo tiene que hacer. El inmigrante con la ayuda interina de la Visa-U debe de llenar otro formulario (I918) y enviarlo a inmigración antes del 14 de Abril de 2008. No obstante un inmigrante con la ayuda interina, no necesita enviar el suplemento B de la Visa-U formulario I-918 (La certificación de una agencia calificada).
¿Soy victima de un crimen con una orden de deportación emitida por inmigración, puedo solicitar la Visa-U?
Sí, lo puede hacer. Aúnque tenga una orden de deportación, es elegible para solicitar la Visa-U. Una vez que la Visa-U sea aprobada debe de hacer una moción para reabrir la orden de deportación con el tribunal de inmigración, o sí está a punto de ser deportado debe de completar el formulario para aplazamiento a la deportación.
