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hnewsome

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  1. Upon suggestion of a VJ member (thanks foobaz123), I have decided to create a FAQ of the most common questions I see here on VJ concerning the NVC process. If you know of a common question that isn't mentioned here, please inform me through a reply in this thread or PM me. I'd be more than happy to include it here.

    FAQ

    How long does it take to get a case number assigned after NOA2?

    As of the last month or so, it's only been taking 1-2 weeks.

    When (and how often) should I start calling NVC about the case number?

    Wait a week from your NOA2 date, then start calling. And call every single day afterwards until you get it.

    What do I do after my case number is assigned?

    Get the IIN from an operator (ask for the 'Invoice Identification Number', not IIN). Give over the email addresses of the beneficiary and petitioner. Email the DS-3032 (from the beneficiary's email address) following the template linked above.

    When can I email the DS-3032?

    Right after you get your case number. There's a chance it could get rejected (because they got to your email before they're ready to take documents), but if that's the case, just re-send it. On the flip side, there's also a chance it could get accepted and you wouldn't have wasted any time.

    Note: if doing online forms (check link above for eligibility), then fill out the DS-261 found online at the above link. Do NOT send the DS-3032.

    I got an email from NVC that contains a bar-coded DS-3032 (along with other information). Do I re-send the DS-3032?

    NO. Do NOT email another DS-3032. NVC automatically generates these emails and do not care if you've already sent in a DS-3032 or not; they include a DS-3032 anyways. Only if NVC responds to your first DS-3032 with a rejection do you send another one.

    After the case number is assigned, how long does it take for the AOS bill to be invoiced?

    Usually just a few days.

    How much are the two bills? And how do I pay them?

    The AOS costs $88 (per case) and the IV is $404 (per person). They have to be paid with a US banking account on the payment portal (site linked in first post). See information here: http://travel.state..../info_3906.html If you can't or don't want to pay online, here's a link to how to pay through the mail: http://travel.state..../info_3905.html .

    Help! I can't sign into the payment portal. Why?

    If you're getting an error message ("Please be advised that the case that you have attempted to access is not eligible for further processing by the National Visa Center at this time…" or "This case is in the process of termination. Fee payments and online forms can no longer be accepted…"), do NOT panic. This is actually good news! If you just got your case number, then this message means NVC is inputting your case in their system. If you get this message a few days after case number generation, then it's a good possibility that NVC is invoicing your AOS bill. And if this message appears a few days after DS-3032 acceptance, then there's a good chance the IV bill is being invoiced. And finally, if this message is appearing a few days or more after NVC received your packages, this is a good indication of case complete at NVC!

    What is needed in the AOS package?

    Generally, the following is needed:

    With no joint sponsors:

    - Bar-coded cover sheet from payment portal

    - Cover letter (optional)

    - Completed, signed, and dated I-864 form by petitioner

    - Tax information* of petitioner (either just the last year OR the last 3 years)

    - Employment letter of petitioner (optional, but good proof of CURRENT income)

    - Pay stub(s) of petitioner (optional, but good proof of CURRENT income)

    With joint sponsors:

    - All of the above of the petitioner

    - Completed, signed, and dated I-864 of joint sponsor

    - Tax information* of joint sponsor (either just the last year OR the last 3 years)

    - Proof of US citizenship/residency of joint sponsor (ex: copy of US passport, US birth certificate, US naturalization certificate, or front & back of green card)

    - Employment letter of joint sponsor (optional, but good proof of CURRENT income)

    - Pay stub(s) of joint sponsor (optional, but good proof of CURRENT income)

    If the joint sponsor is a family member, also include proof of that relationship (example: if a parent is a joint sponsor, include the petitioner's birth certificate with parents' name on it to show link)

    *You have two choices here of what to send in:

    - Tax return transcripts ordered from IRS (preferred by NVC and of most consulates/embassies) RECOMMENDED

    OR

    - Tax returns (1040) and W2s and any other schedules (if applicable)

    When does the IV bill get invoiced?

    After you send the DS-3032, NVC will most likely respond in a few days with an acceptance email (or rejection). A few days after acceptance, the IV bill will be invoiced.

    What is needed in the IV package?

    Generally, the following is needed:

    - Bar-coded cover sheet from payment portal

    - Completed, signed, and dated DS-230 form by beneficiary (do NOT sign or date part 2; this is done at the interview) [note: if doing online forms (DS-260), the DS-230 is obviously not needed]

    - Two passport-style photographs (2" x 2") of beneficiary (on the back, write: beneficiary's full name, date of birth, and case number)

    - Copy of bio-data page of beneficiary's unexpired passport

    - Original or Certified Copy of beneficiary's birth certificate, PLUS A PHOTOCOPY

    - Original or Certified Copy of marriage certificate, PLUS A PHOTOCOPY

    - Original police certificate(s)

    Please read: http://travel.state..../info_3195.html for additional documents if applicable.

    Also read the country-specific documents linked in the first post. There may be additional documents needed not listed above.

    If my documents are not in English, do they need to be translated?

    NVC's website states:

    "All documents not written in English, or in the official language of the country in which application for a visa is being made, must be accompanied by certified translations and submitted to the NVC. The translation must include a statement signed by the translator stating that the:

    -Translation is accurate, and

    -Translator is competent to translate."

    Despite this, I have seen cases of people getting checklists for not having translations of non-English documents. I'd suggest you get everything translated anyways to be on the safe side.

    How long does it take for a bill to appear as PAID in the payment portal after paying it?

    Usually just a day or two.

    Do I have to wait for NVC to email me instructions before mailing packages?

    NO. If you wait on NVC for this, it can take WEEKS to get anything from them. As long as the respective bill appears as PAID in the payment portal, you can mail in your package.

    What address do I send the AOS and IV packages?

    You will find their addresses on their respective bar-coded cover sheets, which are printed off the payment portal.

    Can the packages be sent from abroad or does it have to be from within the US?

    Doesn't matter where the package is sent from; NVC just needs to receive it.

    Do the packages have to be sent separately or can they be sent together?

    Either one or the other works. Again, as long as NVC receives both needed packages, they don't really care. Each way has their pros and cons.

    After sending in the packages, how long does it take to get a case complete?

    Lately, it's been taking just a week or two.

    Do I get an email if my packages have been accepted?

    No, not that I have seen. You have to call NVC every day and ask for updates on your case to find out if a package has been reviewed and accepted.

    Do I get an email when my case is completed?

    Generally, no. Only those doing EP (electronic processing) get the case complete emails. There are some non-EP folk that get case complete emails, but it's rare. Again, to find out if your case is complete, call an operator at NVC and ask.

    After the case is completed, what happens?

    In most cases: the case is put in a queue to get an interview date scheduled. Once an interview date is scheduled, the case is shipped out to the consulate/embassy.

    Who should I be calling to find out my interview date?

    You should be calling both NVC and DOS. Both have access to your case information. Their numbers are linked above.

    How long does it take to get an interview date after a case complete?

    This varies by country and consulate/embassy. Some people find out within a day or two, others a few weeks, then the few unfortunate that wait a few months (ex: Ghana). To get the best estimate for YOUR country is to search, using the timeline feature, when others got case completes and when they got their interview dates scheduled.

    When do interview dates get scheduled?

    If you talk to operators at NVC, they'll always tell you they ONLY schedule during the second week of each month. This is a LIE. They schedule interviews ALL month long. Many people (like myself) have gotten scheduled during the last week of the month. I repeat, they schedule ALL month long.

    How long does it take for NVC to mail my case out after getting an interview date scheduled?

    Usually it's the next day, but it can take up to a week or more in rare cases.

    -------------------------------------------------------

    Please note: the above time frames are just estimates. Do NOT freak out if your case takes a little bit longer. The time frames are constantly changing. They also depend on NVC's work load for that day/week.

    -------------------------------------------------------

    Summary of NVC process:

    - get case number and IIN, give email addresses over

    - email the DS-3032

    - pay the AOS bill, once it's invoiced

    - once the bill appears as PAID, mail the AOS package

    - pay the IV bill, once it's invoiced

    - once the bill appears as PAID, mail the IV package

    - respond to any checklists, if applicable

    - get case complete

    - get interview date scheduled

    Saylin! You are amazing! I've been reading over and over your wiki for Canadian! I got my noa2 march 9th! You got me ready ! You rock!

  2. I got my NOA2 this evening. I was surprised to say the least. Got a text, hoped it was from USCIS and it just said that action was taken... held my breath until i logged in to find out it was an approval... i felt like time stopped for a split second... Thought I'd let you guys know. I was starting to question if they were making ANY progress into September... Hang in there, all of your approvals are coming up soon too :D

    Congrats!!! I had the same feeling! Will be working on NVC together!!!

  3. @hnewsome, could you tell me what you wrote exactly on those color tabs and how you had it organized (color coding, sections, etc)? I may want to do the same rather than the post-it notes. And you placed them on the bottom of the page?

    Hello Raian!

    I used tabs from Waltmart. I put them at the bottom. Pink its for me and blue its for my husband.

    I separated the package in 3 piles.

    First piles for the forms

    2nd one its all the request legal document

    3rd was bona fide!

    I hope that will help you!

    Good luck!

  4. Hello VJ'ers

    Today Im sending my documents to USCIS! Im really nervous to forget something! Also what is the best way to send it. I don't mind the price. Do i need a signature?

    Cover letter

    XXXXXXXX

    XXXX XXXXXXXX

    Myrtle Beach, SC, XXXXX

    U.S. Department Of Homeland Security

    U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services

    USCIS

    Att-I-130

    131 South Dearborn

    3rd Floor,

    Chicago, IL, 60603-5517

    Nature of the submission: I-130 Petition for Alien Relative - ORIGINAL SUBMISSION

    To Whom It May Concern:

    Enclosed please find my Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative for XXXXXXXXXXX, and supporting documents.

    Included are the following documents:

    • Personal check in the amount of $420

    • Cover Letter

    • Filled and signed Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative

    • Filled out and signed G-325A (Petitioner)

    • Passport Style Photo with name at the back (Petitioner)

    • Filled out and signed G-325A (Beneficiary)

    • Passport Style Photo with name at the back (Beneficiary)

    Copy of Marriage Certificate

    Copy of petitioner's proof of citizenship (Petitioner) Birth Certificate and Passport Copy

    Copy of Divorce Certificate (Petitioner)

    Copy of the Beneficiary birth certificate in English

    Copy of beneficiary divorce certificate in French

    Copy of beneficiary Divorce Certificate translated in English

    Evidence of Bona Fide Marriage

    Copy of Credit card statement with Beneficiary as an authorized user

    Copy of life insurance form send to North Western Mutual and wife as beneficiary

    Copy of phone statement showing joint account.

    Copy of phone log conversation between petitioner and beneficiary

    Copy of travels receipts visit to each others

    Copy of gifts and wedding expenses: wedding planner etc..

    Copy of invoice for engagement ring and evaluation of the diamond

    Copy of invoice for wedding bands

    Copy of invoice for Trips together

    Copy of letters addressed to beneficiary and petitioner

    Copy of computer screen from Facebook : example wedding reception, friends comment of change of status etc

    Copy of computer screen from our Facebook message conversation

    Copy of screen from Facebook with pictures during relationship since 2009

    Picture from Wedding in Montreal

    Picture from Photo shoot in Montreal

    Copies of documents submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered documents. I understand that I may be required to submit original documents to an Immigration or Consular officer when requested or at a later date.

    Signed,

    Thank you all for your input! Feel free to correct my English!

    post-112291-0-32054500-1315421392_thumb.jpg

  5. Hello VJ'ers

    Today Im sending my documents to USCIS! Im really nervous to forget something! Also what is the best way to send it. I don't mind the price. Do i need a signature?

    Cover letter

    XXXXXXXX

    XXXX XXXXXXXX

    Myrtle Beach, SC, XXXXX

    U.S. Department Of Homeland Security

    U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services

    USCIS

    Att-I-130

    131 South Dearborn

    3rd Floor,

    Chicago, IL, 60603-5517

    Nature of the submission: I-130 Petition for Alien Relative - ORIGINAL SUBMISSION

    To Whom It May Concern:

    Enclosed please find my Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative for XXXXXXXXXXX, and supporting documents.

    Included are the following documents:

    • Personal check in the amount of $420

    • Cover Letter

    • Filled and signed Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative

    • Filled out and signed G-325A (Petitioner)

    • Passport Style Photo with name at the back (Petitioner)

    • Filled out and signed G-325A (Beneficiary)

    • Passport Style Photo with name at the back (Beneficiary)

    Evidence of Bona Fide Marriage

    Copy of Marriage Certificate

    Copy of petitioner's proof of citizenship (Petitioner) Birth Certificate and Passport Copy

    Copy of Divorce Certificate (Petitioner)

    Copy of the Beneficiary birth certificate in English

    Copy of beneficiary divorce certificate in French

    Copy of beneficiary Divorce Certificate translated in English

    Copy of Credit card statement with Beneficiary as an authorized user

    Copy of life insurance form send to North Western Mutual and wife as beneficiary

    Copy of phone statement showing joint account.

    Copy of phone log conversation between petitioner and beneficiary

    Copy of travels receipts visit to each others

    Copy of gifts and wedding expenses: wedding planner etc..

    Copy of invoice for engagement ring and evaluation of the diamond

    Copy of invoice for wedding bands

    Copy of invoice for Trips together

    Copy of letters addressed to beneficiary and petitioner

    Copy of computer screen from Facebook : example wedding reception, friends comment of change of status etc

    Copy of computer screen from our Facebook message conversation

    Copy of screen from Facebook with pictures during relationship since 2009

    Picture from Wedding in Montreal

    Picture from Photo shoot in Montreal

    Copies of documents submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered documents. I understand that I may be required to submit original documents to an Immigration or Consular officer when requested or at a later date.

    Signed,

    Thank you all for your input! Feel free to correct my english!

    post-112291-0-53640800-1315420221_thumb.jpg

  6. Hello VJers

    I'm in the process of putting my document together and i found this on the USCIS website! If that can help at least one person, Im happy!

    Have you guys a wonderful day and good luck in your journey!!

    Welcome to the National Benefits Center (NBC) Filing Tips page. This page has been designed to provide helpful hints to applicants, attorneys, and representatives when filing petitions and applications with the Chicago Lockbox and NBC.

    Tips for Filing Petitions and Applications to the National Benefits Center

    1. Follow the form’s instructions carefully:

    Use the most current edition of the form. (You can access the most current edition by selecting “Forms” in the “Related Links” section in the upper right of this web page.)Respond to all questions and provide information in the answer blanks and check boxes.Print or type information using black ink only. IMPORTANT: Do NOT “highlight” or “background shade” entriesMake sure the applicant or petitioner signs the form as instructed.Include the correct fee specified in the form instructions. Attach the fee or fee waiver by paper clip or staple in the upper left corner of the completed form application or petition.Provide all requested documentation and evidence with the application or petition.Follow the instructions on the notice you receive for biometrics/fingerprinting. The date, time, and location of your appointment will be provided. Take all receipt notices you have with you to your appointment.2. Submit your application or petition package with:

    Primary application or petition (completed, with applicant/petitioner’s signature).Fee payment or waiver stapled or paper-clipped to the upper left corner of your form.I-797 Receipt or Approval Notice in support of the filed form.Any requested supporting documents.Form G-28, if applicable (with original signatures of both the representative and the applicant or petitioner).3. Take the following steps to avoid delays in processing applications or petitions through the Chicago Lockbox.

    Do NOT send original passports or other valuable personal documents. Make sure that copies of original passports or personal documents are made on standard white letter-sized paper (8.5” x 11”)Use paperclips when attaching supporting personal documents to forms (do NOT use “ACCO” fasteners; staples are acceptable when attaching fees).If a payment is submitted, attach it to the first primary application or petition by paper clip or staple, and make sure the name of the applicant is indicated on the payment document (i.e., in the memo field). IMPORTANT: If more than one application is filed using a single check, and any of the forms are found to be improperly filed, ALL forms will be rejected.Make checks or money orders payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”Always use the same name and the same version of the name on all forms that pertain to the same person (I-485, I-765, I-131, etc.).In the address section of any document, the “care of” line is for names only, such as an attorney, firm/organization, or a building. Do not put a street address in the “care of” section.“Place of Birth” always means country of birth.Include the date of birth on all forms in the designated field in MM/DD/YYYY format.The applicant or petitioner must sign each application or petition submitted.4. The Chicago Lockbox will accept the payment of fees via:

    Money order.Cashier’s check.Personal check.Cash is NOT accepted.5. If you make your payment by check, please note that it will be converted into an electronic funds transfer (EFT). This means the Lockbox will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will usually occur within 24 hours and will be shown on your regular account statement. You will not receive your check back. The Lockbox will destroy your original check but will keep a copy of it. If the EFT cannot be processed for technical reasons, you authorize the Lockbox to process the copy in place of your original check. If the EFT cannot be completed because of insufficient funds, the Lockbox may try to make the transfer up to two times. After two attempts, the Lockbox will turn the check over to Debt Management for collection.

    6. These guidelines apply to individual applicant packages as well as family packages. Family packages should be sent together, if possible. Every effort will be made to schedule these cases together for interview. However, if a Request for Evidence (RFE) is necessary for one family member, the entire family package will be held together until the RFE response is received.

    Adjustment of Status

    Family Package Guidelines

    ________________________________________

    Remittance for father’s I-485 Remittance for mother’s I-485

    Father’s G-28 Mother’s G-28

    Father’s I-485 Mother’s I-485

    Father’s I-485 supporting documentation Mother’s I-485 supporting documentation

    Remittance for father’s I-765* Remittance for mother’s I-131*

    Father’s I-765 Mother’s I-131

    Father’s I-765 supporting documentation Mother’s I-131 supporting documentation

    ________________________________________

    Remittance for child #1’s I-485 Remittance for child #2’s I-485

    Child #1’s G-28 Child #2’s G-28

    Child #1’s I-485 Child #2’s I-485

    Child #1’s I-485 supporting documentation Child #2’s I-485 supporting documentation

    Remittance for child #1’s I-765* Remittance for child #2’s I-131*

    Child #1’s I-765 Child #2’s I-131

    Child #1’s I-765 supporting documentation Child #2’s I-131 supporting documentation

    ________________________________________

    * No fee is required for I-765 or I-131 applications if they are filed concurrently with the I-485 application under the new fee schedule (7/30/07). If the I-765 or I-131 applications are filed separately, applicants must include a copy of the I-485 Receipt Notice with the stand-alone applications. The names on stand-alone applications MUST match the I-797 receipt notices exactly to be accepted without fees.

    7. Read the I-797 Receipt Notice carefully. Wait the amount of time listed before inquiring on the status of your case. The processing time is different for each form type.

    8. All foreign language documents must be submitted with a corresponding English translation. This English translation must be certified by a translator who is competent to translate and who must verify in writing that “the translation is true and accurate to the best of the translator’s abilities.”

    Check on your visa availability status by calling the National Visa Center at (603) 334-0700, or review the “Related Links” section in the upper right corner of this page for the U.S. Department of State website.

    Find out about your case status and application processing time by calling the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) at 1-800-375-5283, or review the “Related Links” section in the upper right corner of this page for the Case Status Online link.

    G-28 - Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Representative

    1. Be sure that the G-28 is signed by BOTH the petitioner or applicant, depending on the form submitted, as well as the attorney or accredited representative.

    2. If multiple applications or petitions are submitted for other family members, or for different applicant or petitioners, make sure that a separate G-28 is signed and submitted by each petitioner or applicant.

    I-485 - Family-Based Adjustment of Status (AOS)

    1. Provide the beneficiary’s information and complete the form with the signature of beneficiary of the I-130. Do NOT provide information or signature of the petitioner.

    2. On Part 2, Application Type, be sure to check only one (1) box.

    3. On Part 2, Application Type, if marking box “h,, be sure to name the program under which the applicant is applying (e.g., “Amerasian,” “Lautenberg,” and “Western Hemisphere”).

    4. When submitting evidence of eligibility, a copy of the I-130 Receipt Notice or Approval Notice is sufficient, BUT it is important that each page of evidence is marked as “COPY.” Otherwise, the Chicago Lockbox may believe the document to be misfiled and attempt to locate the payment of fees, which could result in rejection of the entire package of forms due to insufficient fees.

    5. If filing under Section 245(i), submit evidence (labeled “COPY”) of a previously filed Form I-130, Form I-140, or other immigrant visa petition or a previously filed Application for Labor Certification that was received on or before April 30, 2001 (the sunset date for the Section 245(i) provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act), along with a properly completed Supplement A. Even if you fall under one of the categories of applicants who are exempt from the $1,000 surcharge, you must still submit a completed Supplement A with your I-485 application packet if filing under Section 245(i).

    6. All initial evidence should be submitted at the time of filing. Initial evidence is all evidence listed in the form instructions.

    7. Applicants should include the I-693, Medical Examination, and I-864, Affidavit of Support, (if required) with the I-485 filing. These two forms are listed in the I-485 instructions and are considered initial evidence. Ensure that the I-864 is signed by all relevant parties (sponsor, joint sponsor, etc.).

    8. All applicants required to submit I-693, Medical Examination, are also required to submit a Supplemental Form I-693, Immunization Record. However, applicants who last entered the United States as a K nonimmigrant (I-94 Arrival/Departure Record and/or the nonimmigrant visa page in passport shows K-1, K-2, K-3, or K-4 as admission code) are usually required to submit only the Supplemental Form I-693 (immunization record) with the Form I-485.

    9. The I-693, Medical Examination, and I-864 should include any supporting evidence requested by the instructions. Do not have the civil surgeon mail the I-693 to the NBC. If responding to a request for evidence, the I-693 must be submitted with the request for evidence letter so the response is matched to the proper file. Do not submit chest x-ray film as part of your medical examination.

    10. The I-693, Medical Examination, and/or Supplemental I-693, Immunization Record, must be submitted unopened and in the sealed envelope from the civil surgeon. The civil surgeon should provide a copy of these forms to the applicant before sealing them in the envelope that is submitted with the I-485 application.

    11. Ensure that W-2s, past tax returns for the most recent tax year, and/or evidence of current employment are submitted with the I-864, Affidavit of Support, for all relevant parties (sponsor, joint sponsor, etc.).

    12. Tax return transcripts are generally available for the most recent tax year, and can be ordered by completing a Form 4506-T or by calling the Internal Revenue Service at (800)829-1040 and following the prompts in the recorded message. There is no charge for the transcript, and you should receive it in 10 business days from the time of your request. Have the transcripts sent to you; do NOT have the IRS send your transcript directly to the NBC. If responding to a request for evidence, your transcript must be attached to the request for evidence letter.

    13. A copy of W-2s for the prior year can be obtained from your employer. If this is not possible, you can order and pay for copies of your entire return from the IRS. To receive a copy of your return or transcript, complete and mail Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, or Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return. You should allow 60 calendar days for a response. Have the transcripts sent to you, do NOT have the IRS send your transcript directly to the NBC. If responding to a request for evidence, your transcript must be attached to the request for evidence letter to be matched to the proper file.

    14. Ensure the sponsor and/or joint sponsor on Form I-864 provides evidence of their status when the I-864 is submitted. The petitioner sponsor or substitute sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident (LPR). The joint sponsor can be a U.S. national, U.S. citizen, or LPR.

    Request for Evidence

    1. All initial evidence should be submitted at the time of filing. If the initial review finds that initial evidence is missing, the NBC will generally issue a request for evidence (RFE) for the missing documentation.

    2. Adjudication of ancillary benefit applications (I-765 and I-131 applications) may be delayed if all initial evidence in support of the principal application is not submitted at the time of filing.

    3. Applicants should submit the response to the RFE (with the original request) as quickly as possible to the office issuing the request. Do NOT send the response to the Chicago Lockbox.

    4. Always return the entire original request for evidence (color copy) with the complete response to the request for evidence. DO NOT mail portions of the original request for evidence separately. Make a photocopy of the original request for evidence for your files. Returning the original RFE will make the response easier to identify in the incoming mail and get the response filed with the file as quickly as possible so that the processing of the case can continue.

    5. The following are the most common reasons for a request for evidence:

    I-864, Affidavit of Support, related:

    - Submission of an I-864 by petitioner/sponsor

    - Correct version of the form

    - Submission of an I-854 by a joint sponsorI-693, Medical Exam/Supplemental I-693, VaccinationsMarriage/birth certificates and English translationsEvidence of Eligibility (I-797, Notice of Pending/Approved I-130/I-129F, Evidence of Nationality, etc.)Legal entryI-130, Petition for Alien Relative

    1. Either Block 13 (“If you are a U.S. citizen…”) OR Block 14 (“If you are a lawful permanent resident…”) must be completed.

    2. Complete Part B (“Information about you”) with the petitioner’s information and Part C (“Information about your relative”) with the beneficiary’s information.

    The petitioner is the U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident.

    The beneficiary is the alien relative (and applicant on Form I-485.)

    3. Items B6 and C6, addressing marital status MUST be completed (when the beneficiary is a child, mark “single”).

    • For your information, USCIS defines a “child” as unmarried and under 21. Any reference to a “child” found in this document means unmarried and under 21. For USCIS purposes, the difference between a “child” and “son” or “daughter” is age or marital status. Unmarried sons or daughters are 21 years of age or over. Married sons or daughters are any age but married so he or she is no longer a “child” for USCIS purposes.

    4. Submit completed G-325s and pictures for both the petitioner and beneficiary in spousal cases.

    • Beneficiary copy: Must be signed by the beneficiary.

    • Petitioner copy: Must be signed by the petitioner.

    5. Submit both the petitioner’s and beneficiary’s birth certificates with English translations (if needed).

    6. Submit photocopies of the petitioner’s Permanent Resident Card (I-551), U.S. passport, Naturalization Certificate, or other acceptable evidence of status. Do not send the original documents.

    7. Submit divorce decrees for all prior marriages for the petitioner and beneficiary, not just the most recent one.

    I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

    1. Check only one box in the section stating, “I am applying for”:

    Permission to Accept EmploymentReplacementRenewal of my permission to accept employment IMPORTANT: your application will be rejected if you do not check any of the boxes.

    2. Fill in an eligibility category in the parentheses of Section 16, Eligibility under 8 CFR 274.a.12.

    3. Make sure that the information you provide on the I-765 application matches the information you provided on relating applications/petitions (e.g., Form I-140/I-485 applications). If you are filing an I-765 application and you paid the new fee (effective 7/30/07) for your I-485 application, make sure the first, middle, and last names on the I-765 application match the I-797C Receipt Notice for the I-485.

    4. File your application as directed in the I-765 instructions. The filing location is determined by the employment category that the applicant is applying for.

    5. Make sure that the information (name, date of birth, address, etc.) are correct prior to submission of the application.

    6. If a Request for Evidence has been sent for the primary I-485 (or the I-130 petition, if concurrently filed), NBC will place a “processing hold” on any associated applications that were filed concurrently with the I-485.

    Note: A Request for Evidence stops the regulatory 90-day clock (8 CFR 103.2 (b)(10)(i)).

    I-131, Application for Travel Document

    1. Submit two passport style photos and evidence of the underlying application or petition with the application at the time of filing.

    2. If you are filing an I-131 application and you paid the new fee for your I-485 application, make sure the first, middle, and last names on the I-131 application match the I-797C Receipt Notice for the I-485.

    3. If, at the time of adjudication, the previously issued I-512 advance parole authorization had 120 days or less validity time remaining, then the NBC will issue a new I-512 with the validity date beginning with the date the I-131 was adjudicated/approved.

    4. If a Request for Evidence has been sent for the primary I-485 (or the I-130 petition, if concurrently filed), NBC will place a “processing hold” on any associated applications that were filed concurrently with the I-485.

    Note: A Request for Evidence stops the regulatory 90-day clock (8 CFR 103.2 (b)(10).

    Expedite Requests

    1. If an applicant has an urgent need to travel and has already filed an I-131 with the NBC, the applicant or his or her representative should visit the local Field Office by making an InfoPass appointment or call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) at 1-800-375-5283. The Field Office will consider the merits of the request, and will forward requests that they determine to require expedited handling to designated points of contact at the NBC.

    2. If an applicant has not yet filed an I-131 and needs an expedited Advance Parole document, the I-131 may be filed in person at the local Field Office after an InfoPass appointment has been made. IMPORTANT: Note that expedited processing is done at the discretion of the Field Office, based upon the evidence provided by the applicant.

    3. If an applicant has an urgent need to have a I-765 application processed to receive an employment authorization document, the applicant must make an InfoPass appointment and visit the local Field Office. The Field Office will determine if the applicant’s situation warrants expedited processing, and, if so, will forward the request to designated NBC points of contact to process and expedite the case.

    4. Please keep in mind that expedite requests for applications and petitions will be considered based upon the following criteria:

    Severe financial loss to company or individualSituations of extreme emergencyHumanitarian situationNonprofit status of requesting organization advocating the cultural and social interest of the United StatesDepartment of Defense or National Interest Situation (Note: Request must come from an official U.S. Government entity, stating that delay will be detrimental to the U.S. Government.)USCIS errorOf compelling interest to USCISE-Filing

    1. For e-filed cases, read all instructions before attempting to file. Complete all fields possible. Case status can be checked online.

    2. Read and follow instructions on the Confirmation Receipt that is printed at the time of e-filing, including instructions regarding where to send supporting documentation, if required.

    3. Applicants will receive ASC Appointment Notices scheduling them to appear at the Application Support Center (ASC) for collection of the biometrics (photo, fingerprint, and signature).

    I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion

    1. Motions to Reopen or Reconsider can be filed with the USCIS office that made the unfavorable decision within 30 calendar days of the decision.

    2. Motions to Reopen or Reconsider can be filed with the Chicago Lockbox. The Chicago Lockbox does not accept any motions that are filed without associated fees. Note: This guidance pertains to motions filed relating to applications and petitions that were originally processed through the Chicago Lockbox/NBC (i.e., this does not pertain to Service Center cases).

    I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status

    1. The National Benefits Center only processes Form I-539 for V and K3/K4 nonimmigrant status. Applicants filing under V and K nonimmigrant status should complete Form I-539, and follow the instructions contained in Supplement A to Form I-539, as well as those contained in Form I-539.

    2. To determine if you may be eligible for a V visa, please refer to the instructions on the form.

    3. An alien applying for V status with USCIS should submit proof of filing of the immigrant petition that qualifies the alien for V status, and if necessary, proof of filing I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Such proof may be:

    I-797 , Notice of Action, that serves as the receipt notice or notice of approvalReceipt for a filed Form I-130 or Form I-485Notice of Approval issued by a local Field Office4. If the applicant is filing for an extension of V status, he or she must submit proof of previous V status, such as a copy of the I-94 showing V status or the last I-539 approval notice showing V status.

    5. If an applicant is filing for an extension of stay for a V nonimmigrant status and the extension is filed late, the applicant will need to file an I-539 for a “change of status” by marking box “b” under Part 2 of the I-539. This will require that the applicant pay the required fingerprint fee.

    6. Applicants will receive ASC Appointment Notices scheduling them to appear at the ASC for fingerprinting.

    7. If an extension of V status has been granted under the provisions of the Akhtar v. Burzynski decision after the applicant is over the age of 21, then the applicant will need to continue to file for extensions. If the applicant does not file for an extension before the validity period expires, then he or she will no longer be able to file for an extension of status and will not be eligible to file for a change of status.

    The Akhtar v. Burzynski, 383 F. 3d 1193 (9th Cir. 2004) decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit allows some unmarried sons or daughters of Lawful Permanent Residents to continue to receive extensions of his or her V non-immigrant status. 8. K3 and K4 nonimmigrants can file an I-539 for an extension of status while their permanent residence case is being processed. If the I-130 has been approved, they will need to submit proof that they have filed an I-485 application. If the I-130 is still pending, they will need to submit proof of marriage.

    9. An applicant filing for either V or K nonimmigrant status can submit a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, at the same time as the I-539 application to request renewal of his or her employment authorization. If filing the I-765 separately, the applicant must include proof of V or K-3/K-4 status.

    10. An alien with V nonimmigrant status who departs the United States must obtain a V visa from a consular office abroad in order to be readmitted to the United States as a V nonimmigrant.

    I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document

    1. Make sure that the information you provide in Part 3, Question 3 of the I-102 application matches the information you provided in the original Form I-94.

    2. A copy of the biographic page of the applicant’s passport must be submitted as well as a copy of the nonimmigrant visa and admission stamp(s).

    3. If filed concurrently with other forms, include a separate check for the I-102.

    I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition

    1. Form I-824 is used to request further action on a previously approved petition or application. Note: I-824 is not for verifying status of a pending petition/application. USCIS will not process Form I-824 if the petition or application was denied. Form I-824, if submitted concurrently with Form I-485, will not be adjudicated until a decision is made on Form I-485.

    2. If you are filing this application for a derivative who is living abroad, and you want USCIS to notify a specific U.S. consulate that your status has been adjusted to that of a lawful permanent resident so that your spouse and/or children may apply for an immigrant visa, please file under reason C in Part 2 of the form, “Reason for request.”

    3. Complete Part 1 (“Information about you”) with the petitioner’s information if requesting action on a visa petition (I-130, I-140). Make sure the information provided is filled out completely and accurately, with information neatly contained in the proper blanks and applicable boxes checked.

    4. Be sure to attach copies, showing the front and back, of the following documents, if available:

    Original petition or applicationForm I-797, Notice of Action, for the original petition or applicationForm N-550, Certificate of NaturalizationI-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant

    1. The National Benefits Center only accepts certain Form I-360, Petitions for Amerasians, Widow(er)s, or Special Immigrants. The Chicago Lockbox will accept Form I-360 under the following conditions:

    • Amerasians: The Chicago Lockbox will accept Form I-360 as a stand-alone application or when it is filed concurrently with Form I-485.

    • Widow or Widowers: The Chicago Lockbox will accept Form I-360 widow/widower filings only if they are filed concurrently with Form I-485.

    • Special Immigrant Juveniles: The Chicago Lockbox will accept Form I-360 as a stand-alone application or when it is filed concurrently with Form I-485.

    • Armed Forces Members: The Chicago Lockbox will accept Form I-360 only if it is filed concurrently with an I-485.

    2. The Chicago Lockbox does not accept all I-360 forms. Please read the form instructions carefully to make sure you submit your application to the correct Service Center/National Benefits Center which has jurisdiction over your case.

    3. On Part 2, Classification Requested, be sure to mark the correct classification for the application.

    I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

    1. I-90 applications can either be filed through the Los Angeles Lockbox, or can be filed electronically through the E-Filing system. All I-90 applications are given MSC receipt numbers.

    2. The National Benefits Center only processes I-90 application with the reason “b,” “My authorized card was never received,” and “d,” “My card was issued with incorrect information because of a USCIS administrative error.” Please follow the I-90 instructions on where to file I-90 applications with these reasons. There is no filing fee for either of these reasons.

    3. Do not use Form I-90 if you are a conditional resident and your status is expiring. If you became a conditional resident based on:

    Marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, submit Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence; orA financial investment in a U.S. business, submit Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions.4. Applicants will receive Appointment Notices scheduling them to appear at the ASC for collection of the biometrics (photo, fingerprint, and signature) and fingerprinting.

    AR-11, Change of Address

    1. Applicants are required to inform USCIS of their change of address by filing Form AR-11. Applicants should also report their change of address to the National Benefits Center either online at www.uscis.gov, by calling the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) at 1-800-375-5283, or by writing to:

    USCIS-NBC

    PO Box 648005

    Lee’s Summit MO 64002

    2. Petitioners should report their change of address to the National Benefits Center online by selecting “NBC Change of Address” in the “Related Links” section in the upper right of this web page, by calling the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) at 1-800-375-5283, or by writing to:

    USCIS-NBC

    PO Box 648005

    Lee’s Summit MO 64002

    3. Attorneys or Representatives should report their change of address to the National Benefits Center either online by selecting “NBC Change of Address” in the “Related Links” section in the upper right of this web page, by calling the National Customer Service Center (NSCS) at 1-800-375-5283, or by writing to:

    USCIS-NBC

    PO Box 648005

    Lee’s Summit, MO 64002

    Note: A change of address must be submitted for each client an attorney or representative has. The National Benefits Center is unable to update the system base on attorney/representative name only.

    .

    Last updated:08/11/2010

  7. Hello Dear VJ members!

    First of all, thank you so much for all the information online! This is so great! I was going to spend $3,000 on a lawyer until i discover you!

    Here is my question:

    I had big wedding in Montreal and then we organized a reception in Myrtle Beach, where my husband is from. I don't if i should start the process right now (to mail the 1-130) The reception is September 17th. At the POE, all the time: i said i'm going to visit my Husband, they didn't even look at me and said OK. I wonder if because im not in the system? Do you think because i have a nexus card?

    I'm going to visit next week and see! I do not have much tie to canada... I just moved back after my TN Visa and i'm self employed!

    Should I start on the process or wait after the Myrtle Beach Reception, My friends all booked flight from everywhere!

    Thank you so much for the answers! Im looking to spend the journey with you guys!

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