Mistakes to avoid while completing an immigration form

The process of applying for an immigration benefit whether it be a Green Card or U.S. citizenship, starts with a government form. Applicants are required to complete the correct form for the benefit they are seeking and submit it to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The immigration process is very complex and daunting at times. It requires patience, accuracy and lots of paperwork! That is why it is very important to complete each US immigration form very carefully as to avoid errors. Having errors on the immigration application will cause delays and even rejection of the immigration benefit, which means you will have to start over.

So what are the most common mistakes while completing an US immigration form and how to avoid them?

Top mistakes to avoid while completing a US immigration form

This list includes the top 8 mistakes most applicants commit when submitting an inmmigration form.

Providing incorrect or false information on your application.

It is very important to be as accurate as possible while completing your application. You may be required to provide the same information more than once throughout the application, making it easy to make a mistake or even a typo. Once your application is complete you should always revise it to make sure all information provided is correct and that there are no typos. Simple mistakes like a typo or leaving a question unanswered may cause your application to be rejected by USCIS.

Forgetting to sign and date your application.

While this one may seem obvious, it is one of the most common errors. Each year thousands of applications are denied for not being signed. Once you review your application be sure to sign and date it using black ink. An unsigned application is automatically rejected by USCIS.

Not meeting the eligibility requirements for the benefit you are seeking.

Before starting your application it is paramount that you check if you meet the eligibility requirements set for the specific benefit you are seeking. This way you are sure to complete and submit the correct form. Not being eligible or submitting an incorrect form is cause for automatic USCIS rejection of your petition.

Not providing proper translations for any foreign language documents you submit.

The USCIS will, in most cases, require you send additional supporting evidence. Any foreign language documents that you submit, such as birth certificates from other countries, must not only be fully translated into English, but must also be accompanied by a statement from the interpreter. The name of the translator and the date and place of translation should also be written into the statement. Failing to submit the appropriate paperwork may cause delays in your case.

Submitting outdated government forms.

USCIS will periodically revise and update immigration forms, instructions and even its fees. When filing an immigration form you should always make sure that you are sending its latest version. You can find out more about the USCIS form updates.

Not submitting the correct government fee.

Another common mistake that may seem obvious is not submitting the correct fee. However, much like forgetting to sign an application, this is one of the top reasons for USCIS rejection of an immigration form. Make sure you are submitting the correct fee along with your application. You are required to pay the exact amount required by USCIS using only one of the following acceptable methods of payment: checks, money order or cashier’s checks. Keep in mind the checks, money orders, or cashier’s checks must be drawn from a U.S. bank, or financial institution, and must be payable in U.S. currency. USCIS does NOT accept cash or checks issued from foreign banks.

Failing to submit your application on time.

When applying for renewal or extension of an immigration benefit it is important to do so before your document’s expiration date. For example if you are a permanent resident whose Green Card will expire within the next 6 months, you may want to start the Green Card renewal process immediately. Carrying an expired document or visa may cause you to lose your status and be forced to leave the United States.

Not getting help.

The pathway to immigration is complicated and intimidating if you are going through it alone. That is why USimmigration has developed an easy-to-use software that simplifies complex questions. This way you are sure to complete and submit your application mistake-free! We also provide customized step-by-step instructions on how to correctly submit your form with the USCIS.

The immigration process can be long and you may want to rush to get it over as quickly as possible. However, rushing can lead to more delays and a longer process overall. Preparation and care are key while preparing and filing your application with the USCIS.