Are you getting ready to prepare an immigration form for you or a relative? In most cases you can do it by yourself without the aid of an immigration lawyer. But an inaccurate or carelessly answered question can delay an application or result in a denial. Likewise, a poorly prepared application packet can cause unnecessary delays and trigger additional questions. In fact simple mistakes when preparing USCIS immigration forms can potentially tarnish the person’s immigration record forever.

In the fiscal year 2014, nearly 8% of the 7.7 million applications filed at USCIS lockbox facilities were rejected.

That’s over 600,000 applications rejected! Here are some helpful tips for preparing USCIS immigration applications and petitions:

Answer All Questions When Preparing USCIS Immigration Forms
First of all, answer every question honestly. Even small deviations in the truth can create problems for you if USCIS learns the true facts later. In the long run, it is always better to provide the truth. If you feel the truth may create a problem for you, contact the Visa Legal Team before filling the form.

In some cases, “unknown” is an acceptable answer. For example, a question may ask, “where was your immigrant visa approved?” If you do not know or do not remember, entering “unknown” is acceptable.

If a question does not apply, you still need to respond. Write “N/A” (not applicable) instead of leaving the space blank. For example, if you are asked “What is your current spouse’s nationality,” but you do not have a spouse, you should answer “N/A” because the question does not apply to your situation.

Be Consistent When Preparing USCIS Immigration Forms
It may seem obvious, but you should avoid any confusion when filling out USCIS immigration forms. Inconsistent answers could be perceived as dishonest.

For example, you might live with a friend but use your parents’ address to get mail. USCIS forms will ask for your residence (e.g. the physical place you live) and mailing address (e.g. the place you receive mail). Be careful to answer correctly and consistently in response.

List All Your Name(s) When Preparing USCIS Immigration Forms
At first glance providing your name should be a simple answer. However, USCIS may ask for every variation of your name. Again, it is important that you provide all versions of your name to avoid confusion and maintain consistency.

Here are some important things to get straight before you start writing your name(s) in the forms:

• Married name. If you have recently married and changed your last name, use your married name. But if you are continuing to use your maiden name, that’s okay too – don’t change it solely for the sake of your immigration application, even if you are trying to obtain a green card based on marriage.
• Current name. When your current name is requested, it is best to insert the name you currently use for legal purposes. This will normally be the name on your bank account, driver’s license, and passport. If you have been known by a nickname (for example, your name is James but you always use the common nickname “Jim”), its okay to fill in the application as “Jim,” as long as you list “James” where the form asks for other names used. This will avoid confusion when USCIS compares your application form with the accompanying documents (your employer, for example, might write a letter saying “Jim worked here . . .”).
• Legal name changes. If you have actually obtained a court-ordered legal name change, include a copy of the court order, to help dispel some of the inevitable confusion. If you have changed your name without a court order (by simply beginning to use a different name and using it consistently, which is legal in many U.S. states) and you use your changed name for all legal purposes, list it as your current name.
• Other names. The category for “other names used” could include nicknames. The immigration authorities will want to know about nicknames that might be shown on your various legal documents (or a criminal record). You should also include names by which you have been publicly known, especially as an adult. However, personal names used within your household such as “sugar-pie” or “little brother” need not be included. Nor should unwanted childhood nicknames.
• Previous married names. If you have been married before, remember to list your name from that marriage in the boxes requesting other names used.

Translations When Preparing USCIS Immigration Forms

If you have included any foreign language documents, you also must submit certified translations. The translator must certify that s/he is competent to translate and that the translation is accurate. The certification format should include the certifier’s name, signature, address, and date of certification.

Application Packages When Preparing USCIS Immigration Forms
If you are submitting attachments to your application to provide additional information, be sure to include your complete name, date of birth, and A-Number (if applicable) on each sheet.

Always provide photocopies of your personal documents (e.g. marriage certificates, school records, etc.) unless you are specifically requested to include an original and/or certified copy.

When you assemble the application package, place your cover letter on top, USCIS forms next, followed by any supporting documentation. Do not use staples. USCIS prefers the use of ACCO fasteners to hold together thick or bulky applications.

After You Have Filed
If you file, G-1145 together with your primary application or petition, USCIS will provide you a notification with updates via text or e-mail. Otherwise, contact the Visa Legal Team.

About Visa Legal Team
The Visa Legal Team helps you avoid mistakes, errors and oversights when preparing USCIS immigration forms.

The Visa Legal Team is a service that makes immigration forms simple. We provide simple, step-by-step guidance through USCIS applications and petitions. The low-cost service helps to simplify the process by explaining each question and providing alerts if your answer to a question could be a problem.

Most people do not need a lawyer to prepare USCIS forms, but many need assistance. That’s where the Visa Legal Team can help. The Visa Legal Team provides support for the Citizenship Application (Form N-400), Green Card Renewal (Form I-90), and several other forms.

Contact the Visa Legal Team if you need assistance completing your immigration forms.  Schedule a complimentary 15 minute consultation with the Visa Legal Team at +1 (305) 280-7624; or fill out a Contact Request Form.

*This article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice or create a client relationship. This article does not make any guarantees as to the outcome of a particular matter, as each matter has its own set of circumstances.