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Declaration of Financial Support (Form I-134)
For an I-134 (Affidavit of Support), the sponsor must prove that their income is at least 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size. If the sponsor’s income is insufficient, they may need a joint sponsor to meet the requirement.
An employment verification letter provides proof of employment and income, detailing the job title, salary, and duration of employment. It is often required for immigration forms like Form I-134 to demonstrate financial stability.
To prove income as a self-employed individual, you can provide documents such as tax returns, profit and loss statements, and bank records. These documents help demonstrate your financial capacity to support an immigrant.
While listing property and assets is not mandatory on Form I-134, it can be helpful if your income does not meet the required threshold. Assets can be used to demonstrate that you have the financial ability to support the immigrant.
The I-134 supporter agrees to financially support the immigrant during their stay in the U.S. and ensure they do not become reliant on public assistance, though the supporter’s financial responsibility ends once the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Green Card Renewal/Replacement (Form I-90)
Renewing or replacing a Green Card typically takes 7 to 13 months, depending on the processing times at USCIS. You can check current timelines on the USCIS website for Form I-90, and expedited processing may be available in urgent cases.
The cost to renew a Green Card is $540, which includes a $455 filing fee and an $85 biometric services fee. Fee waivers may be available for those who qualify based on financial hardship.
An Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a unique identification number assigned to non-citizens by USCIS, typically consisting of 7 to 9 digits. You can find it on documents like your green card, employment authorization card, or USCIS notices, often labeled as "A#."
You can legally work with an expired Green Card if your lawful permanent resident status is still valid, but it may complicate employment verification processes. To avoid issues, provide proof of your pending green card renewal (Form I-90 receipt notice) to your employer.
Yes, green cards typically expire every 10 years, and you must renew it before it expires to maintain valid proof of your permanent resident status. However, your actual status as a lawful permanent resident does not expire, only the card itself.
Yes, you can use your married name when filing a USCIS form if you have legally changed your name. Be sure to provide appropriate documentation, such as a marriage certificate, to verify the name change.
Application for Naturalization & U.S. Citizenship (Form N-400)
The cost to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization is $725, which includes a $640 filing fee and an $85 biometric services fee. Fee waivers or reductions may be available for applicants who meet specific financial or other eligibility criteria.
You may be eligible for U.S. citizenship if you are at least 18 years old, have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), and meet other residency, physical presence, and moral character requirements. You must also demonstrate proficiency in English and pass a civics test unless exempted.
Your time as a permanent resident begins on the date your lawful permanent resident status is granted, which is typically the date you entered the U.S. with your green card or the date USCIS approved your adjustment of status application. This date is important for determining eligibility for citizenship and other benefits.
On Form N-400, list frequent trips outside the U.S. by providing the dates of each trip, including the departure and return dates, along with the total number of days you were outside the country. If the trips were frequent or prolonged, you may need to explain the reasons for the extended absences in the additional information section.
An Alien Registration Number (A-Number) is a unique identification number assigned to noncitizens by USCIS, typically consisting of 7 to 9 digits. You can find it on documents such as your green card, employment authorization card, or any notices from USCIS, where it is usually labeled as "A#" or "Alien Registration Number."
The process to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization typically takes about 6 months to 1 year, depending on your location and USCIS processing times. This includes time for filing, biometrics, the interview, and the oath ceremony.
Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130)
The Cost to Petition a Relative using Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is $535. This fee is required for most family-based immigration petitions filed with USCIS.
The processing time for Form I-130 approval can vary, but it typically takes between 7 to 15 months depending on the USCIS service center and the specific circumstances of the case. You can check current processing times on the USCIS website for more precise estimates.
The "Class of Admission" on Form I-130 refers to the immigration status or category under which the relative entered the United States, such as B-2 visitor or F-1 student visa. You can find this information on your relative's I-94 form or entry stamp in their passport.
To petition your child for a Green Card, you must file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with USCIS, providing evidence of your relationship, such as a birth certificate. Once the petition is approved, your child can apply for a green card through adjustment of status if they are in the U.S., or through consular processing if they are abroad.
Yes, you can submit a late registered Birth Certificate in your Immigration Case, as long as it is issued by the appropriate civil authority and includes sufficient details to establish your identity and birth information. However, USCIS may request additional evidence to support the authenticity of the late registration.
Adjusting Status to Permanent Resident (Form I-485)
You are eligible to file Form I-485 if you are a lawful immigrant who is present in the U.S. and have an approved petition (like Form I-130) or are eligible for adjustment of status under certain immigration categories. Additionally, you must be in the U.S. legally and meet specific eligibility requirements.
Generally, you should not travel outside the U.S. while your Form I-485 is pending unless you have received Advance Parole. Traveling without Advance Parole may result in abandonment of your application.
If you lack evidence of lawful entry, you may still be able to provide other forms of evidence, such as affidavits or records of your arrival, or you may need to apply for a waiver. You may also consult with an immigration attorney for guidance.
If you have a K-1 visa, you can apply for a Green Card by filing Form I-485 after you marry your U.S. citizen petitioner. You will also need to submit other required documents, such as proof of the marriage and medical examination results.
Yes, you should include your children on Form I-485 if they are eligible for adjustment of status and are included in the same family-based petition. Ensure you complete the necessary sections for each child and submit supporting documents.
Yes, if your Form I-130 is approved, and you are eligible to adjust your status, you can file Form I-485. Make sure your priority date is current, and you meet all the eligibility requirements for adjustment of status.
Employment Authorization & Work Permits (Form I-765)
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD), Form I-766, is a card issued by USCIS that allows noncitizens to work legally in the United States. It is granted to individuals with approved applications for work authorization, such as asylum seekers or those adjusting their status.
If you do not already have a Social Security number (SSN) and you are approved for work authorization, you can request an SSN when filing Form I-765. USCIS will send your EAD card along with your SSN if you are eligible.
Yes, your “Current Immigration Status” may differ from your “Status at Last Entry” if you have changed status while in the U.S., such as adjusting from a student (F-1) to a work visa (H-1B). Your current status reflects your most recent immigration status approval.
Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
The income requirement for sponsoring a relative is generally 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, depending on your household size. If your income does not meet the requirement, you may need a joint sponsor or use assets to make up the difference.
A Joint Sponsor is a separate individual who agrees to financially support the immigrant, whereas a Household Member is someone living in the sponsor's home who can count toward the sponsor’s total household income. Household Members do not submit a separate Form I-864.
The Country of Domicile on Form I-864 refers to the country where the sponsor has their primary residence. This is important because the sponsor must demonstrate their intention to return to the U.S. if they are living abroad.
To prove income as a self-employed individual, you can submit documents like tax returns, profit and loss statements, bank statements, and any other records of your business income. You may also need to provide a letter from an accountant or business records to support your income claims.
Your obligations under Form I-864 end when the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, can be credited with 40 quarters of work, leaves the U.S. permanently, or dies. If the immigrant becomes dependent on public benefits, you may still be held financially liable.
Petition for Alien Fiancé (Form I-129F)
An International Marriage Broker is a company or individual that helps arrange marriages between U.S. citizens and foreign nationals. They facilitate communication and introduction, often through online platforms, for individuals seeking international spouses.
The K-1 visa application fee is approximately $265, which covers the filing of Form I-129F. Additional fees may apply for medical exams, visa issuance, and other related costs.
The processing time for a K-1 fiancé visa typically takes between 6 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the processing times at the specific U.S. embassy or consulate. Delays may occur due to additional document requests or background checks.
No, a fiancé cannot come to the U.S. on a B-1/B-2 visa to marry a U.S. citizen, as the B-1/B-2 visa is for temporary visits for business or tourism. They must apply for a K-1 fiancé visa specifically for marriage purposes.
After marrying your U.S. citizen spouse within 90 days of arrival on a K-1 visa, you can apply for a green card by filing Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status. You will also need to submit proof of the marriage, medical examination results, and evidence of your relationship.
Remove Conditions on Residence Questions (Form I-751)
You can file Form I-751 to remove the conditions on your Green Card within the 90-day period before your conditional residency expires. It is important to file within this window to maintain continuous legal status.
USCIS may schedule an interview as part of the Form I-751 process, although many cases are approved without an interview. If an interview is required, USCIS will notify you of the date and location.
Yes, you can travel after filing Form I-751, but it is recommended to carry the receipt notice and any other supporting documentation to re-enter the U.S. safely. If your conditional green card has expired, applying for an I-551 stamp may be necessary.
Replacing Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate (N-565)
A Certificate of Naturalization is an official document issued by USCIS that proves a person has become a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process. It includes the individual's name, photo, date of naturalization, and other identifying information.
A Certificate of Citizenship is a document issued to individuals who automatically acquired U.S. citizenship through their parents, typically at birth or after meeting other legal requirements. It serves as proof of U.S. citizenship for those who were not naturalized but are citizens by law.
Your Certificate of Naturalization number can be found on the top portion of the certificate. It is typically labeled as "Certificate No." and is a unique identifier for your naturalization document.
Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600)
You may be eligible for a Certificate of Citizenship if you acquired U.S. citizenship through your U.S. citizen parent(s) or if you were born abroad and meet the legal requirements for citizenship. The application process requires proof of your parent's citizenship and your relationship to them, along with other supporting documents.
If your parent is a U.S. citizen, you may be a U.S. citizen as well, depending on your birth circumstances and the U.S. immigration laws in effect at the time. You may need to apply for a Certificate of Citizenship to confirm your status.
If your parent lost their citizenship document, you can provide alternative evidence, such as a U.S. passport, naturalization records, or other government documents. You may also be able to request a replacement certificate through USCIS.
Advance Parole, Re-entry Permits and Travel Documents
(Form I-131)
(Form I-131)
An Advance Parole Document allows individuals with pending immigration applications to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad. It is typically used by applicants for adjustment of status, such as those seeking a green card.
A Re-Entry Permit is a travel document issued to lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad for an extended period, usually longer than one year. It helps prevent the permanent resident status from being abandoned.
A Refugee Travel Document is issued to individuals who have been granted asylum or refugee status in the U.S., allowing them to travel outside the country and return. It serves as a substitute for a passport for those who cannot obtain one from their home country.
DACA Application (Form I-821D)
The cost for applying for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) is $495, which includes the application fee for both Form I-821D and biometrics services. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
Yes, DACA recipients can apply for Travel Authorization through Advance Parole if they have a valid reason for traveling, such as work, educational purposes, or humanitarian reasons. Approval of Advance Parole allows them to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad.
DACA recipients are authorized to work legally in the U.S. and can obtain a work permit. This allows them to accept employment with any employer and receive wages and benefits.
General Immigration Questions
A USCIS Certified Translation is a translation of a document that is accompanied by a statement from the translator affirming their qualifications and accuracy of the translation. It ensures that non-English documents are accurately interpreted for USCIS use.
Form I-551 is a U.S. permanent resident card (green card) that serves as proof of lawful permanent resident status. The ADIT stamp is a temporary stamp placed in a passport to signify lawful permanent resident status while awaiting the green card.
Form AR-11 is the Alien's Change of Address Card, used by noncitizens to notify USCIS of an address change. It is required by law for all noncitizens to update USCIS within 10 days of moving.
Your Permanent Resident Card Number, also known as your green card number, can be found on the front of your green card. It is typically located at the top right-hand corner of the card.
A Matrícula Consular Card is an identification card issued by the consulate of a foreign country, typically Mexico, to its citizens living abroad. It serves as proof of identity and residency for individuals in the U.S. and may be used for certain purposes, such as opening a bank account.