Phoenix Lockbox REFUSED

[kiwiMN 0]

Hi all,

We've had a bit of a hiccup with our re-entry permit application and I'm a bit concerned as to why it was refused - any suggestions would be appreciated, I'll explain our situation below.

I'm on a conditional green card and I'm applying for a re-entry permit as we are going to Australia next month (25 Jan 2011) to live for 18months or so. I sent off my I-131 application on Dec 7 2010, which should have given me plenty of time to get the biometrics letter back. We sent the application to the Phoenix Lockbox through the PO Box using USPS first class mail (estimated delivery time 2-3 days).

I got home last night (17 Dec) and the letter had been refused by the USCIS and returned to me. There was sufficent postage and it was a completed devliery according to the USPS tracking info. There was no signature required.

So now I'm planning on Fedexing it to the Courier address overnight, but we still will have lost two weeks, plus we're coming into xmas/new years so it might be tight. I considered trying to Expediate but I understand that is only for emergencies.

If any one has any idea why USCIS would have refused the letter without even opening it that would be appreciated!

Cheers

Andy

[Kathryn41 3,205]

I've looked over the instructions for the mailing address as well and the reference to the 'special instructions' included on the form overview. I am assuming you have compared the form issue date and number to ensure it is the most accurate and up to date form, although that would not explain why it was refused unopened. You do live in one of the states listed for filing to that particular Lockbox?

The only other thing I can think of otherwise is if they think you are filing something different than you are and refused it for that reason . When you courier it back, put "Application for Re-Entry Permit I-131 for Green card holder" on the outside somewhere. It could just have been a mistake by the USCIS person at the time but it is puzzling as it seems you have done everything right. There is nothing listed anywhere else on the website to indicate there has been a change of address for your situation. Good luck.

Edited December 19, 2010 by Kathryn41

[kiwiMN 0]

Thanks for your reply. It occured to me too that they thought I'd sent it to the wrong lockbox for my state, but we're in Minnesota so I'm pretty sure we're correct in sending it to Phoenix.

Its with fedex now so hopefully they open it this time!