The immigration process consists of filing many forms. These USCIS forms that are in PDF format can be downloaded. To use these forms, you should have the latest version of Adobe Reader. To complete and submit your application correctly, give utmost importance to any notices, warnings, or explanations on the Forms Entry Page (FEP) in the uscis website, before you start the application process. Read the instructions carefully and ensure you send it to the appropriate filing location.
All the immigration (I) or naturalization (N) forms will have additional instructions that will contain the details of the submission fee and where to file. These instructions will differ according to the benefit you are seeking. Not filing the forms with the appropriate office or with the correct fee will lead to the application or petition being returned to you. It will also result in further delay in processing. Do not send your application or petition to the “HQPDI” address on any form.
Fees and Waiver Information
As stated earlier, there is a submission fee for most of the immigration forms and you have to enclose the fee along with the form. Payment of all required fees, including any fingerprint fees have to be sent along with your application. Ensure that the checks are payable to “Department of Homeland Security.” You don’t have to submit a completed fingerprint card (FD-258) while mailing your application. After you mail the application, USCIS will then inform you of the time and place for your biometrics appointment.
There are persons who are not able to afford the submission fee. In such instances, individuals may apply for and get a fee waiver while filing certain immigration forms. To request a waiver, you should file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. The instructions page that come with Form I-912 has information on how the USCIS decides on a fee waiver request, whether the request is submitted through Form I-912 or through a written request for a waiver by the applicant.
To arrive at a decision, USCIS will determine whether the applicant is receiving a means-tested benefit, or review the applicant’s household income level and/or recent financial hardship that makes the applicant eligible for the fee waiver.
Photographic Requirements
For most immigration forms, it is mandatory you submit your photographs with the form. The photo specifications are detailed in the form instructions page.
The USCIS Forms are available in such a format that you can fill them out on your computer, print and mail it to the appropriate filing location to file for a benefit. Some of the applications/petitions are rather large files. You can download them directly to your computer, instead of filling them out through your web browser. As stated earlier, you should have the current version of Adobe Reader, which can be downloaded free