Don’t Be A Reject!

Summary:

Immigration submissions often get rejected by USCIS for simple mistakes such as using an outdated form, leaving a question blank, mailing to the wrong address, or paying the fee in the wrong amount. Avoid these problems by reviewing your forms multiple times and staying organized. Working with an immigration lawyer is the best way to make sure your application is accepted out of the gate..

For an immigrant family, nothing can make you scream out loud more than your immigration submissions appearing in your mailbox as “rejected” after weeks of waiting for confirmation of receipt. You worked hard to get those forms done and evidence collected! Every rejection means lost time and mounting frustration – and even fear!

We can’t tell you how many clients come to KW Law after their submission has been rejected because they finally realize just how puzzling the immigration process is. Think of it this way – if your car engine light starts flashing, you wouldn’t try fixing it yourself, right?

You’d take your car to a mechanic because they are the experts! Immigration is what WE do, and we do it well! The good news is that most times the mistake is fixable. Working with an immigration attorney should always be your first step, but here are some tips to help your submission get through the front door!

So, why do applications get rejected??

First and foremost, let’s be clear…. There’s a difference between “Rejected” and “Denied”

Rejected: The USCIS mailroom does not accept your submission because of a basic mistake (like wrong fee or missing signature). *Most* times, your filing fee is returned to you, and you can fix the mistake and send it again.
Denied: A USCIS office begins to review your submission and based on the answers and evidence you provided, determines you do not qualify. This is about your eligibility, not paperwork. You will receive denial notice, and your filing fee is non-refundable. More importantly, your legal immigrant status in the U.S. might be compromised (meaning, TALK TO AN ATTORNEY!).

Incomplete Forms: One unchecked box, a missing date, or an unanswered question can stop your application cold.

Fill out every field clearly.
If a question doesn’t apply, write in “N/A.”
Before mailing, double-check that each form is signed and dated.

Outdated Forms: USCIS only accepts the newest version of each form. Using an older edition—even if it looks similar—will result in rejection.

Download the latest form from the USCIS website.
Check the edition date printed at the bottom of the form against the USCIS instructions before filing.

Wrong Fees or Payment Problems: Fees change often and fees are confusing! Sending the wrong payment or payment method will result in immediate rejection. CHECKS ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTED!

Check the current fee using the USCIS Fee Calculator!
https://www.uscis.gov/feecalculator
Use Form G-1450 to submit payment by credit card
Use Form G-1650 for ACH /bank account debit

Missing Evidence or Translations: For each form, USCIS provides instructions and a list of required documents.

Submit high quality copy of all required documents.
Include certified translation of any non-English document
Make a copy of your entire submission – forms and evidence – before you mail!

Note: You might get lucky to ONLY have your submission rejected if you left something out, however most times, missing any required documents will result in a denial.

Wrong Address: Once again, nothing is simple with USCIS filings , including addresses.

Use this website to verify address https://www.uscis.gov/forms/all-forms/direct-filing-addresses-for-form-i-485-application-to-register-permanent-residence-or-adjust-status
Use something like USPS “Priority mail” so that you can track your submission
If you are resubmitting after a rejection, read the rejection notice for instructions nowhere to resubmit!
Send your packet to the correct USCIS address.

If you receive a rejection, take it as a sign that you need help! Your time is valuable and given the climate in the U.S. you can’t afford any delays. Call KW and let the experts take over!

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Khazaeli Wyrsch, LLC

At our firm, we are committed to safeguarding the rights of individuals through two key areas of practice: Civil Rights and Immigration Law. While these are distinct legal fields, both are united by a common goal—protecting individuals from abuses that threaten their fundamental rights and freedoms. Our Civil Rights team concentrates on addressing cases involving police misconduct and the excessive use of force by law enforcement. At the same time, our Immigration team guides families of U.S. citizens through the complexities of the federal immigration system, helping loved ones live and work legally in the United States.