Avoid These Common Green Card Application Mistakes

When applying for a Green Card, minor errors, such as failing to sign a form or omitting required documents, can cause avoidable delays, rejections, or even denials of your application. Here is a list of the most frequent mistakes along with practical advice to help you prevent them.

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Not verifying Green Card eligibility.

Before beginning the process of applying for your green card, whether within the U.S. (through adjustment of status) or outside the U.S. (via consular processing), you should first confirm that you qualify under one of the green card eligibility categories. These categories include family-based, employment-based, and others, such as green cards for asylum seekers or refugees. Each category has its own requirements and limitations.

Furthermore, before beginning, ensure that you are not affected by any grounds of inadmissibility, as these can result in your application being denied. These grounds include specific criminal offenses and immigration violations. If you are subject to one of these grounds, it may be possible to address it by submitting a waiver request. Please contact us to assess the risks and find the best solution for your situation.

Review your Green Card Application Carefully

Outdated or missing forms.

Failing to submit all necessary forms will result in your filing being rejected and cause a delay. Additionally, be aware that USCIS frequently updates its forms. Submitting an outdated form edition will also result in the application being denied.

Forms are not adequately signed.

Incomplete signatures on application forms may result in the filing being rejected before it is reviewed. Each form specifies different participant categories that must sign, such as the beneficiary/applicant, the petitioner/sponsor, an interpreter, or a preparer. Each needs to sign in the appropriate section and date their signature accordingly.

Incomplete or incorrect information.

Incomplete, omitted, inconsistent, or inaccurate information on your forms can cause unnecessary delays and possibly result in the denial of your green card application. Not including the required documents with your application may also result in its rejection.

Omitting translations of documents.

Documents not submitted in English must include a certified translation for review by the adjudicator. Without this translation, USCIS may send a request for evidence (RFE) for a correct translation, which could delay your case.

Failing to submit the required filing fee.

If you do not pay the correct government processing filing fee, your application will be rejected. USCIS and the Department of State sometimes change their fees, so it's essential to check the latest amounts. Additionally, be aware that an extra biometrics fee may apply in certain situations.

Make sure to complete your check or credit card authorization form in the correct format. For instructions on USCIS filing fees, visit:

https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-fees

Unsuitable passport-style photos.

USCIS's website offers comprehensive guidelines for passport photos. Adhering to these instructions is advised to prevent application rejection due to photo issues, which could lead to unnecessary delays. Here are the fundamental requirements:

• Provide a color photo taken within the last six months.

• Ensure a clear image of your face without using social media filters.

• Have another person take your photo; selfies are not allowed.

• Remove your eyeglasses for the photo.

• Choose a plain white or off-white background.

• The correct passport photo size is:

  • 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)

  • The Head should measure between 1 - 1 3/8 inches (25 - 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the Head.

Benefits of online filing.

Filing your application online can reduce the risk of errors associated with traditional paper forms, as the online platform includes built-in checks to ensure that all necessary information is provided before submission.

Online filing with USCIS offers other benefits that enhance the overall experience for applicants:

• It provides convenience, allowing users to submit applications and track their status from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need for in-person visits.

• Online filing often results in faster processing times, as electronic submissions can be routed and reviewed more efficiently than paper applications.

• The online system also offers real-time updates and notifications, keeping applicants informed throughout the process.

  
  

  Overall, online filing streamlines the immigration process, making it more accessible and user-friendly.

Hire an experienced immigration attorney to avoid issues with your application.

Hiring an experienced immigration attorney is advisable to avoid potential issues with your green card application, given the complex and often nuanced nature of immigration law. An attorney who specializes in this field possesses in-depth knowledge of the legal requirements and procedures involved in the application process.

An experienced immigration attorney can help you navigate any obstacles, ensuring that all necessary documentation is correctly completed and submitted on time. Furthermore, a skilled attorney can anticipate potential challenges specific to your case and provide tailored advice to mitigate risks. This not only increases the likelihood of a successful application but also reduces the stress and uncertainty that can accompany the immigration process.

We invite you to contact us for more detailed information and inquiries about the green card process.

This article has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information presented is not legal advice, is not to be acted on as such, may not be current, and is subject to change. Readers should consult their attorneys for advice on any specific legal matter.