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Last Updated: January 15, 2020.

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The biometrics appointment sounds technical and is often intimidating for people, but it's usually a very straight-forward appointment! In order to confirm your unique identity, the USCIS collects data for many reasons, one is to ensure that whenever YOU sign a document in the future, it really is you! It also helps deter people with criminal records from applying for USCIS benefits for which they are not eligible. Here are some of the most common questions about the appointment, as well as some common problems and how to prepare for them.

What exactly does “biometrics” mean?

Biometrics is the process of capturing your unique features by putting your fingerprints, photograph, and signature on file so that the USCIS can confirm your identity in the future.

Who has to attend the biometrics appointment?

The USCIS can require biometrics from any applicant, sponsor, or beneficiary living in the US for any immigration or naturalization purposes. After filing your application, petition, or request you will receive a notice telling you where and when you need to go for the appointment.

If you are under the age of 14, you may choose to sign if you are able to, or a parent or legal guardian may sign on your behalf.

How should I prepare for the biometrics appointment?

It is a good idea to make copies of your application, petition, or request. You may bring a copy (as the USCIS will not provide you with one), but you should also do this to keep for your records and to review your forms before the appointment.  Your personal appointment notice will include specific instructions on what you need to bring. Everyone MUST bring the ASC appointment notice (Form I-797C) and a valid photo ID (like a green card, passport, or driver’s license).

For most people, the biometrics appointment is nothing to be worried about! If you think you have a criminal background, you may want to contact a lawyer for further advice.

What should I expect at the biometrics appointment?

You will first be asked to reaffirm the following “Acknowledgement of Appointment at USCIS Application Support Center” statement:

I declare under penalty of perjury that I have reviewed and understand my application, petition, or request as identified by the receipt number displayed on the screen above, and all supporting documents, applications, petitions, or requests filed with my application, petition, or request that I (or my attorney or accredited representative) filed with USCIS, and that all of the information in these materials is complete, true, and correct.

If you cannot reaffirm that this is true, your appointment will be rescheduled until you can refile your paperwork.

Given that everything you submitted was true, the USCIS will capture your fingerprints (either 2 or all 10, depending on the type of ASC notice you received), your photograph, and your digital signature.

What if I am applying from outside the United States?

The process is a bit different in this case. When you file your Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) you have to include your completed fingerprint cards (Form FD-258) and two passport style pictures. For specific instructions and details regarding those, look here and here, respectively.

If you are active duty military or are applying under sections 328 or 329 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and you live outside the U.S., look here for more information.

What if I require assistance?

Many people require assistance for the appointment. Here are some of the common issues people may have, and the solutions provides by the USCIS to make this process as easy as possible.

Common Concerns

I can’t speak English.

You may bring someone with you who can translate for you.

I can’t read English.

For the “Acknowledgment of Appointment” statement, you should go here to select the language you can read and review the translation before your appointment.

I have a disability that prevents me from signing my name.

They will accept any mark (such as an “X”) as a signature. If you cannot provide this, there are other procedures in place to capture your biometrics.

I have a disability that will require further assistance.

You may bring a family member, attorney, or accredited representative to assist you.

I have a disability that will require further accommodation.

As soon as you arrive you should speak to the ASC immigration services officer for help. There are tons of accommodation services available, but you will likely need to request them in person. You can also try contacting your local Application Support Center before the appointment. Their contact information should be on your appointment notice.

Why might I have additional biometrics appointments?

Because biometrics data is only considered valid for 15 months, you may be required to attend more than one if your application is pending for longer than 15 months. You will also have to attend a new appointment should you apply for a different USCIS benefit.

What if I am uncomfortable with the government having my fingerprints and other personal data?

Unfortunately, if you refuse to provide anything that is asked of you during the biometrics appointment, your application will more than likely be refused. Biometrics are being used increasingly around the world and seem only to be gaining popularity by international law enforcement and immigration services, so you will likely be asked to provide similar levels of data to obtain a visa or green card in most countries.

Updated: October 1, 2021

What is a "Request for Evidence?"

What is a Request for Evidence and what does getting a letter of Request for Evidence mean for your application?

The letter means USCIS needs more information to process your application. RFEs are fairly common but are serious in nature. They must be responded to in order to keep your application on track. But don't worry, getting an RFE does not mean your case is denied and preparing a response can be fairly simple. Keep reading to learn what to do if you receive an RFE.

What happens if I get a Request for Evidence?

USCIS will send a letter to the address you've provided that explains what additional information they need from you in order to move forward with your case. For tips to avoid an RFE click here.

The RFE will have a deadline. You must respond by the deadline. This deadline is usually in the first paragraph and in BOLD. The typical time to respond is about 87 days, but USCIS will sometimes give a specific date or timeframe for you to respond.

Example: An RFE may say something like, “you must submit the information within 87 days”. Treat this timeline seriously and do not delay submitting the necessary information or evidence that they are requesting.

When you are getting ready to send in the requested information indicated in the RFE, make sure to review the letter carefully. You must respond to all information requested at one time. USCIS will not allow you to send more evidence later. You only get one response. Make sure that you attach a cover letter explaining what you are sending in, why you are sending it in and any other information that might be helpful.

The RFE will include instructions for where to send the response. In some cases you'll need to include the original RFE letter with your response, while in other cases USCIS only requests a copy of the RFE letter.  Whether you are required to send the original or the copy, attach it to the very top of your response. Make sure that it is the first page and the first thing that the USCIS officer sees when they open your application.

The RFE should include an address for you to send the response packet to. Make sure that you send the RFE response to the address listed. It will be different than the original USCIS address that you sent your application to.

Let us know

Immigration issues can be tricky. If you have any questions about your specific Request for Evidence or your immigration case, there are experienced professionals that can help.  

If you are a customer of SimpleCitizen and you've received an RFE please reach out to us via live chat, email or phone. RFE responses are included with the Professional package we offer. Do not hesitate to reach out and ask for help.

Last Updated: January 15, 2020.

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Self-Employed Sponsor and Form I-864

What you need to know about having a Self-Employed Sponsor fill out Form I-864. One of the requirements to get a green card is having a financial sponsor file the I-864, Affidavit of Support. This USCIS form is basically a contract between the financial sponsor, the immigrant applicant and the US government. As part of the contract, the sponsor must meet certain income requirements to qualify as a financial sponsor for the immigrant. Like every form on the green card application, several documents must be submitted as supporting evidence for the information provided in the application.

Submitting supporting evidence for a sponsor that is currently employed is fairly straightforward. The sponsor needs to attach their most recent federal tax return, a letter from their employer and pay stubs for the past 6 months. These requirements become useless when the sponsor is either self-employed or retired.

Self-Employed Sponsors & Form I-864 Supporting Documents

The USCIS actually has a few guidelines when it comes to proving an income amount for a sponsor that is self-employed or a business owner. The USCIS suggests that self-employed sponsors should attach the following photocopies of documents to their I-864, Affidavit of Support:

• Total and Complete Tax Return: All schedules associated with the federal return including Schedule C (Profit/Loss from Business), Schedule D (Capital Gains/Loss), Schedule E (Supplemental Income/Loss) and Schedule F (Profit/Loss from Farming).
• Business Licenses and registrations.
• Signed and dated statement about the nature of the business and the sponsors involvement.
• Bank Statements for the previous 6 months.

Retired Sponsors & Form I-864 Supporting Documents

If the sponsor that is submitting the Form I-864, Affidavit of support is retired, a similar problem exists. Again, the goal for a retired financial sponsor is to simply provide independent evidence that establishes a steady flow of income matching the amount reported in the Form I-864. This can be accomplished by providing the following documents:

• Recent Pension Statements and Current Pension Payment Receipts
• Social Security Documents that indicate payments
• Complete Tax Returns
• Bank Statements for the previous 6 months

As you are working to complete your green card application and fill out a correct Form I-864, make sure that you are avoiding some of the other pitfalls of the financial sponsor for a green card. Making sure that you are calculating the household size correctly or including the accurate income amounts are a few of the important things to remember when working on this application. SimpleCitizen is a do-it-yourself tool to help you avoid these common mistakes. We are the only truly comprehensive service, guiding users from signup to citizenship while ensuring their application is correct and complete at every stage.

Last Updated Jan 15, 2020.

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The I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is the first form you must submit in order to obtain lawful permanent residence (green card) for a family member. After submitting this form, there are three key steps which must occur to receive a green card:

1. Confirmed Receipt of I-130

Within 2-3 weeks of submitting your I-130, you should receive a Notice of Action (also known as Form I-797). It is vital that you read the information on this notice, as it will tell you if your I-130 has been received, rejected, or requires more information from you. The Notice of Action will contain a priority date and a receipt number can be used to check application status.

If you haven't received a Notice of Action within a few weeks, you should make an inquiry here.

2. Approval Process of I-130

After your I-130 is received, it will be reviewed. USCIS prioritizes the review of petitions from Immediate Relatives, which comprise:

• spouses of citizens
• unmarried children (under age 21) of citizens
• parents of citizens 21 years of age or older.

USCIS issues an unlimited number of immigrant visas (green cards) to Immediate Relatives. Thus, processing time is faster for Immediate Relatives than other relatives.

Other relatives are categorized as Family Preferences:

• Unmarried children of U.S. citizens age 21+, and their minor children (F1)
• Spouses, minors and unmarried children age 21+ (F2)
• Married children of U.S. citizens, their spouses and minor children. (F3)
• Siblings of U.S. citizens, and their spouses and minor children, if age 21+ (F4)

Congress permits a limited number of Family Preference visas per year. Therefore, people who fall into this category often wait longer for a visa number to become available. Priority depends on when the I-130 was submitted. The wait time can be anywhere from 6 months to 6 or more years.

3. Filing for a Green Card

Once your I-130 is approved, you may be permitted to file for a green card and hopefully obtain lawful permanent residence. The filing process depends on relative status and where you are currently living.

Immediate Relatives:

• Inside the US: Immediate relatives inside the US can submit Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) while the U.S. citizen petitioner files Form I-130. Relatives may file I-485 applications any time after a Form I-130 has been submitted if it has not been denied, although relatives must submit a copy of their Notice of Action along with Form I-485 in order to prove that Form I-130 is in process.
• Outside the US: Immediate relatives outside the US obtain green cards through consular processing. The USCIS will work to schedule a visa interview with a U.S. consulate in the relative's country. The Department of State will notify the relative when he or she is may apply for an immigrant visa, which must be applied for within one year of this notification. Once the Department of State issues an immigrant visa, the relative may travel using the visa and will obtain permanent residency when they reach a U.S. port of entry.

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Family Preference:

• Inside the US: Once Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is approved, one must wait for the priority date in one's immigrant visa category to become current (see the date listed in the Notice of Action, and check when it is current by adjusting the following June 2017 URL to reflect the current month and year uscis.gov/visabulletin-Jun-2017). When the date listed is current, it is time to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This is the required form for becoming a Permanent Resident.
• Outside the US: Family Preference relatives outside the US also obtain green cards through consular processing. See those details above.

Remember...

• In most cases, children's ages are “frozen” as the ages listed when Form I-130 was filed.
• If unmarried children of U.S. citizens get married before obtaining green cards, they may cause serious delays in processing. Children of U.S. citizens must notify USCIS of any change in marital status after submitting Form I-130.

Last Updated: January 15, 2020.

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You've just submitted your Form I-90, but you are curious what happens after submitting your form I-90. There are just a few more steps before actually receiving your new green card. Depending on the current USCIS wait times, you can expect to receive your new green card about 6-12 months after submitting your I-90. This guide outlines the post-application process, making it smooth and stress-free.

1. Receipt of Application

The first thing that will happen after submitting your I-90 is you will receive a Receipt of Application from the USCIS aka Form I-797C, Notice of Action usually takes up to 3 weeks to arrive. This means the USCIS has received your application. If the USCIS needs more information or your application has a mistake, the I-797 may have additional instructions. Follow the instructions in these letters carefully.

2. Appointment Notice

The appointment notice informs you when and where to go for your Biometrics appointment. The purpose of the Biometrics appointment is simply for the USCIS to confirm your identity and run a standard background and security check. Save the appointment notice because you will need to bring it with you along with a valid photo identification. This could be a green card, drivers license, passport or a national photo identification issued by your country. It could also be a military photo identification or other state-issued photo id card.

*Note: Its also good idea to bring a copy of your application, because they cannot provide you with one at the regional USCIS office.

3. The Biometrics Appointment

As mentioned above, the date, time and location of the Biometrics appointment will be mailed to you in the Appointment Notice. Show up to scan your fingers, sign an attestation and have a photo taken. It takes most people only 15-30 minutes.

Digital Signature

• Be ready to sign an attestation that reaffirms that on the application you provide correct information (at the time of filing). The only exceptions apply to those with certain physical impairments or mental disabilities. Otherwise you must sign. You can read more about this process here.
• If you would like, you may bring an attorney, interpreter, family or friend to stay with you throughout the process. However, even if your attorney prepared your paperwork, they are not required to attend your biometrics appointment.

Rescheduling

If you need to reschedule follow the directions in your Appointment Notice as soon as possible. If the biometric information is not fulfilled soon enough your application will be at risk of denial. After you've made a reschedule request, the regional USCIS office will assign you another date within 30 days of your reschedule request.

4. The Finish Line

Generally, the whole process takes about 6 months. If you are getting nervous you can always check the status of your application here using your application receipt number.

When your application is accepted your green card will be mailed to the U.S. address you gave the USCIS in your application. You'll also get a letter if your application was denied explaining the reason for its denial. There are two ways to get another chance if your application is denied.

• Motion to Reopen - if you have new evidence that you want the USCIS to consider with your application.
• Motion to Reconsider - this motion is if your application's denial was incongruent to law or immigration policy. This must be established based around the information that you have already submitted.

Note: You cannot file an appeal regarding your I-90 application. Meaning that there is not a way to request a higher authority to review the decision. It will be the same office that reopens or reconsiders your application.

Other Resources

• USCIS National Customer Service Center (NCSC): 1-800-375-5283. Have specific information about your application ready, including your receipt number, Alien Registration Number, name and date of birth.
• Find accredited legal help here.
• Locate an USCIS office here.
• For more information about the green card renewal process, click here.

SimpleCitizen makes software that simplifies the green card renewal process. We’ll guide you through every step of the application, and you can even have it reviewed by a professional immigration attorney. When you’re finished, we can even print out the forms and mail them to you. To get started, click here.

Last Updated: January 15, 2020.

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Medium.com featured the tell-all, behind the scenes tale of one mans struggles through life and the intimidating US immigration process.

Vikram Babu tells his story of going from Indian immigrant to Canada to undocumented alien in the US to full-fledged green card holder. His story mirrors the same plot points of millions of other families in the U.S. that find a pathway to citizenship via the green card program.

He tells the beautiful story of love found, then love lost. The mini-challenges of learning the difference between a Form I-130, Form I-485, supporting documents and the Form G-325A. A natural Do-It-Yourself inclined man, Vikram spent months putting the application together himself, following the instructions carefully. This process can be very stressful as millions of immigrants end up paying lawyers billions of dollars every year to avoid rejections or delays by the government due to a simple mistake on their application.

Vikram explains the feeling of relief as he successfully completes the green card process with the USCIS. As he establishes himself, makes progress in his career, moves to a new city, he is struggling with the same challenges that everyone faces as we navigate life, US citizen or not. He deals with the added difficulties of the anti-immigration sentiment that existed in 2009-2012 and continues on today.

Vikram's story is particularly important because most American citizens have a similar story in their family be it from their grandfather, great-grandmother or beyond. These immigration stories are not only important moments in the lives of each of these families, they have also been important moments in the story of America.

Read the entire story (10 min read) with pictures via Medium.com here

Last Updated: January 2023

A green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, is an important document that lets you live and work in the United States even if you're not a citizen. If you are an immigrant with a green card, you may need to renew it at some point. There are two types of green cards: conditional and permanent green cards. The process for renewing a green card varies depending on the type of green card you have. This article will quickly overview both options to help you understand how and when you need to renew your green card.

10-Year Green Card (permanent)

A 10-year green card is the most common type and is issued to people who have been permitted to live in the United States permanently through different ways like through work, family, or special circumstances. This type of green card is valid for 10 years. The 10-year green card is renewed by using Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.How to Renew a 10-year Green Card

Conditional Green Card

On the other hand, a conditional green card is a type of green card explicitly given to people who are married to US citizens who were married for less than two years at the time of green card approval. This type of green card is only valid for two years, but don't worry; you'll have the chance to make it permanent! This involves filling out Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, together with your US citizen spouse, who sponsored you for the conditional green card. Except for a few specific circumstances, it must be filed within 90 days before the conditional green card expires.How to Apply to Remove the Green Card Conditions

Last Updated: January 18, 2023.

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When applying for a Green card, an applicant also has the opportunity to apply for Travel Authorization by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. When filed along with the green card, this travel authorization–commonly also called “Advance Parole”–may take between 9-12 months, on average, to be adjudicated by USCIS. Due to this processing time, you may wonder what limitations there are on traveling while your green card application is pending. This article will explore some of those limitations.

The purpose of this article is NOT to provide legal advice but rather to provide legal information regarding the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document. Anyone seeking legal advice on whether or not they should travel while their green card is pending is encouraged to discuss it with a licensed immigration attorney. 

Before Travel Authorization is Granted

Traveling inside the US Before Travel Authorization is Granted

Before USCIS grants the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document, an immigrant can typically travel within the continental US while their green card application is still pending.
However, something to keep in mind is that until an applicant has received their receipt notices from USCIS confirming that USCIS has started processing their application, an applicant will not have proof of their pending green card application. This means that if they are traveling inside the US without a valid visa or status, they may not have proof of having legal status in the United States. Because of this, any interactions with US immigration while traveling presents the potential for issues.

Additionally, an applicant will want to be very cautious if traveling outside of the United States to non-continental US territories or states (such as Hawaii or Puerto Rico). In the case of an emergency landing or layover in a non-US territory or country, USCIS would consider that applicant as having left the United States, and the green card application would be considered abandoned.

Traveling outside the US Before Travel Authorization is Granted

After submitting a green card application, an applicant may only be authorized to leave the country and reenter the US once they have received the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document. While this does not apply to certain dual-intent visas (such as the H1B or L1 visas)*, this does not apply to green card applicants whose non-immigrant visas previously allowed for travel. Non-immigrant visas (such as F1, TN, or B1/B2) are not authorized to travel outside the United States until their Form I-131, Application to Travel, has been approved. Doing so would result in the green card application being denied and could lead to misrepresentation investigations. 

*NOTE: While some dual-intent visas allow for continued travel while a green card application is pending, traveling on a dual-intent visa before the Advance Parole/Travel Authorization is approved likely means that USCIS will deny Form I-131 and will not grant Advance Parole. 

Overall, it can be beneficial for an applicant wishing to travel internationally to wait until USCIS has granted them Travel Authorization before they travel outside the United States. If this travel authorization is pending, an applicant would need to consider whether they have a valid document that will allow for their re-entry into the US and whether they accept the potential repercussions of abandoning their pending application and subsequent denial of the Green Card. 

Navigating Travel after Travel Authorization/Advance Parole is Granted–But While the Green Card application is Still Pending

Currently, the average wait time for the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document adjudication is around 9-12 months, while the Green Card application itself may take anywhere from 12-24 months to be approved. Due to these timelines, USCIS will likely grant an applicant’s travel authorization while the Green Card application is still pending approval. 

When USCIS issues the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document, an applicant is essentially authorized to travel in and out of the US while their green card is still being processed. However, after this travel authorization has been approved, there is still some risk that an applicant could experience difficulties re-entering the US or miss important USCIS notices while they are out of the country. This article will discuss these potential risks in greater detail below.

Risks of traveling While a Green Card application is pending

Risks During Re-entry

After international travel, re-entry into the United States is ultimately at the discretion of the US Customs and Border Protection agent, who inspects upon arrival. This means that even if someone has been granted Advanced Parole and has a valid travel authorization document, US Customs and Border Protection can still technically deny their re-entry. Thus, travel authorization does not guarantee entry into the United States.

While generally, there are no issues re-entering, there is always a risk. These cases are not typical, and you can diminish risk by following laws and regulations and not committing crimes that could jeopardize your ability to reenter the United States.

Risks of missing time-sensitive USCIS notices while traveling

The Biometrics Appointment
In the weeks after someone submits a green card application, USCIS will mail them a notice with a scheduled biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). The appointment notice (Form I-797C, Notice of Action) will include the date, time, and location for the ASC appointment. It is recommended that this appointment is attended whenever possible, as it can be challenging to reschedule.

If you are traveling abroad on a dual-intent visa when you get the notice for the biometrics appointment, it could be challenging to return to the United States in time to make the appointment.

Notices for Requests for Evidence

When USCIS needs more information for a case, they issue a “Request for Evidence” (commonly called an RFE). The RFE letter comes in the mail, and USCIS typically outlines what documentation must be submitted and issues a deadline by which they must receive that information. They specify that the applicant must submit the requested documents to them before that deadline. Cases that do not respond to the RFE by that deadline will have their green card application denied. 

Applicants wishing to travel abroad while the green card application is pending will want to be aware that if they receive an RFE while they are away, they will need to respond to the RFE before the deadline or risk having their application denied.

The Green Card Interview with USCIS

In the months after completing your biometrics, USCIS will schedule an interview with a USCIS officer. This interview is conducted in person and is arguably the most important moment in the process of getting a green card. USCIS will mail you an appointment notice (Form I-797C, Notice of Action) which will include the date, time, and location for your interview. It is critical that applicants don’t miss this appointment. Be aware that, in some cases, USCIS can schedule the appointment within weeks of issuing the notice. If you are traveling abroad when you get the notice for the interview appointment, it could be challenging to return to the US in time to make the appointment.

Partner Immigration Attorneys Can Help You Plan

Navigating Travel while a Green Card application is pending presents many nuanced situations. If you have any questions about this topic or how this applies to your specific situation/visa, consider signing up for SimpleCitizen’s Professional Package–which allows you to discuss your questions and concerns with one of our independent partner Immigration Attornies.

Learn more about what this package includes here: https://www.simplecitizen.com/pricing/

FAQ

Can I use my dual intent visa (H1B or L1) to travel while my green card is pending?

If someone has proof of a valid dual-intent visa, they can travel while the green card is pending without the risk of USCIS deeming their case as abandoned. However, this does not apply to the O visa. Please refer to this article for more information about travel with an H1B visa. 

Can I travel using my K-1 visa?

The K visa serves as a single entry visa, meaning that once someone enters the US, they cannot use that visa again to leave and reenter the US. Instead, they would need to consider waiting for the travel authorization or the green card to be granted. 

Since an O-1B visa is considered dual intent, can someone use it to travel while they wait on travel authorization through their adjustment of status application?

The O-1 visa is a dual-intent visa in the context of visa approval but not in the context of travel authorization. As such, USCIS will consider that someone traveling abroad on an O visa while the green card application is pending (and before the travel authorization has not been granted) has abandoned the green card application, and this application will be denied. 

Last Updated: January 15, 2020.

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Thinking about applying for United States citizenship?

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to become a United States citizen.

There are 3 main steps to applying for U.S. citizenship and multiple steps in between. Starting with applying for a visa, getting a green card, then finally applying for citizenship. Keep in mind that the total time to immigrate to the U.S. and become a U.S. citizen is between six and seven years.

Let's get started.

Step 1: Apply For a Visa

You're living in Country X when you realize it's time to make your move. You want to immigrate to America.

The first thing you need to do is obtain a visa from the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A visa is a pass that allows you to enter the United States and stay here for a specific length of time. There are two types of visa.

• Nonimmigrant visas: For those who simply want to travel to the U.S.
• Immigrant visas: For those who wish to move to the U.S. permanently

You want to apply for an immigrant visa (a visa is not the same as a green card; more on green cards in a bit). With a few exceptions, to be eligible to apply for an immigrant visa, you must be sponsored by either

• A relative who is a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident
• A prospective employer

If you're immigrating based on family: Your sponsor begins the process by filing form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative with USCIS. Filing this form costs $535 and can be paid with a check or money order.

If you're immigrating based on employment: Your sponsoring employer begins the process by filing form I-140 Petition for Alien Worker with USCIS. In some highly skilled employment categories, you can file the I-140 petition yourself.

Exceptions to family-based or employment-based visa categories: The majority of immigrants who are granted visas do so in the family-based or employment-based visa categories. But as mentioned above, there are exceptions. These include:

• Petition for a foreign fiancé(e) to get married in the U.S.
• Petition for a child adopted abroad to be adopted in the U.S.
• Petitions covered by special types of workers or special circumstances established by the U.S. government
• Diversity visas — granted in limited number to people from countries with historically low U.S. immigration rates.
• Entrepreneur visas — granted to entrepreneurs (and their spouses and unmarried children under 21) who invest in a U.S. business enterprise, thereby creating or preserving 10 permanent full-time jobs in the U.S.

Once your sponsor's petition is approved by USCIS, you will have to:

• Collect and submit the appropriate paperwork to the National Visa Center
• Entrepreneur visas — granted to entrepreneurs (and their spouses and unmarried children under 21) who invest in a U.S. business enterprise, thereby creating or preserving 10 permanent full-time jobs in the U.S.
• Pay fees (between $205 and $345, depending on your status)
• Complete an interview with a consular officer

If and when you're approved — congrats! You are now able to enter and stay in the United States. Next stop: green card.

Step 2: Apply For a Green Card

A visa allows you to stay in the U.S. for a set period of time, and when that time is up, you have to go. With a green card, however, you become a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., and you can live and work here indefinitely. Applying for a green card is the next step in the process of becoming a U.S. citizen.

Who can apply? People are granted green cards under similar categories that they are visas — i.e., based on having either family or employment in the U.S. Again, special categories exist, including status as a refugee or asylee (someone who has been granted asylum in the U.S.). It's important to note that except for immediate family of U.S. citizens, a limited number of green cards are issued each year, and there are priorities and preferences for certain categories of immigrants.

Getting a green card based on family: Priority is given to the spouse, parents and unmarried children under age 21 of a U.S. citizen. These people do not have to wait for a visa to become available before they can get a green card.

Read: The Ultimate Guide on Getting a Green Card

Getting a green card based on employment: There is also an order of preference for people who wish to immigrate to the U.S. for employment. First preference goes to "priority workers," including exceptional professors and researchers and others with extraordinary abilities. To see the complete order of preference for workers, visit the USCIS website.

Getting a green card based on humanitarian reasons: You may be able to get a green card through your status as a refugee or asylee.

• If you're a refugee, the law requires you to apply for your green card within a year of entering the U.S.
• If you have been granted asylum in the U.S., the law requires you to apply for your green card within a year of asylum status being granted

Other special categories: A variety of special categories exist that enable you to get a green card, including.

• You want to invest $1 million or more in a U.S. business
• You're a religious worker or member of the clergy coming here to work in certain circumstances
• You're a former overseas U.S. government worker

Once you file your green card application and all supporting documents and fees, USCIS will schedule an interview with you. For green card applications and help filling out the forms, visit SimpleCitizen.com.

The next step: Conditional permanent resident status vs. permanent resident status. Once you're approved (congrats!), you become a conditional permanent resident, and you'll be issued a conditional green card. It's good for two years. At some point during the 90 days before the card expires, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. You cannot renew a two-year green card — you must apply to have the conditions removed.

Once the conditions are removed, you are granted a permanent resident green card. It's valid for 10 years. You may renew it by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.

So once you have your permanent resident green card, now you can apply to become a U.S. citizen, right?

Not quite.

Ways to Apply for a Green Card

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Step 3: Apply for American Citizenship (after 3 or 5 years)

You must be a permanent resident of the U.S. (aka having your green card) for five years before you become eligible for naturalization (aka becoming a U.S. citizen). USCIS does permit you to submit your naturalization application up to 90 days before your five-year anniversary.

Are there any exceptions to the five-year rule? Yes, there are:

• Permanent residents who are married to U.S. citizens only have to wait three years to apply for citizenship
• Battered spouses of a U.S. citizen also only have to wait three years
• Spouses of U.S. citizens in certain overseas jobs, refugees and asylees all have special circumstances that may permit them to apply for citizenship earlier than five years

Next step: You've had your green card for three or five years (or however long USCIS mandates, based on your status), and you'd like to apply for citizenship. Now it's time to file form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. A few important points about the N-400:

• The form can be completed with SimpleCitizen. Start here‍
• It costs $640 to file the N-400 plus an $85 biometrics fee (more on biometrics below)
• Read all the instructions carefully and always tell the truth
• It's a good idea to have an immigration lawyer review your form before you submit it

What happens next? Two things:

1. Biometrics. You will be mailed a date for your biometrics services appointment. This is where USCIS captures your fingerprints, photograph and digital signature to confirm your identity and perform background and security checks.
2. Citizenship interview. After biometrics are collected, you'll get an appointment for a citizenship interview with a USCIS officer. Make sure to bring the list of documents they request and be prepared to go over your application with the officer. You will be sworn in, and the officer will test your knowledge of English and U.S. history and government

Ways to Apply for Citizenship

Fill Out On a Computer

Download and view in a PDF viewer.

Download PDF

SimpleCitizen's Application Builder

Complete a Citizenship application with SimpleCitizen.

Get Started *Includes Attorney Review

Print & Fill Out Paper Form

Print the PDF and fill by hand with black pen.

Print PDF

Hire a Legal Professional

Find a legal professional to complete the form.

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You are almost a U.S. citizen! The final step is the oath ceremony, where you swear an oath of allegiance to the United States. In some courts, you will swear your oath on the same day as your citizenship interview, but if a same-day oath ceremony is not available, USCIS will notify you by mail of your ceremony date and time.

What happens in the oath ceremony? Before a judge, you will pledge to:

• Support and defend the U.S. Constitution
• Respect and obey all laws
• Pay income and other taxes honestly and on time
• Serve on a jury upon request
• Defend the country if needed

Once you swear your oath of allegiance, you will receive your certificate of naturalization. Congratulations! You are now a full-fledged U.S. citizen with all the rights that grants, including freedom of religion, the right to vote, right to a fair trial, and of course, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Helpful Links:

Complete a Citizenship Application with SimpleCitizen
Citizenship Supporting Document Checklist
How long does it take to become a citizen?

Last Updated: January 15, 2020.

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Every year more than 1 million people apply to get a green card in the United States. This is an important moment in each one of these families lives, and for many, it is their first step towards citizenship in the United States. All of those green card applications mean a lot of paperwork for the US Citizenship and Immigration services (USCIS), and it also means a lot of mistakes. Mistakes can lead to delays, rejections, and in some cases, denials.

We have put together this list of some of the most common reasons green card applications are rejected. Reading this list can help you avoid some of the most common errors that people make when submitting their green card application.

1. Missing forms in your application

Potential Time Lost: 6 months to 2 years

A green card application is not one form that you fill out and submit to the US government. It is not that easy. A typical green card application is a complex web of about 6 to 8 different government forms and various supporting documents. All of these forms make up a complete green card application. Now you may be submitting an adjustment of status application for a relative already in the United States or you might be trying to apply for a green card for a spouse or parent that is in a different country. Either way, you are going to be submitting several forms to eventually get the green card.

Missing some of the required forms is an easy way to slow things down for your application. For example, in some cases you can submit all of the required forms to the US government at the same time. This is called a concurrent filing. This will cut down your process time by years. But make sure that you don’t miss any of the forms or you will lose valuable time.

2. Missing document translations

Potential Time Lost: 6 months

When you file a green card application you will be submitting many supporting documents to back up your information and prove that you really are who you say you are. The types of documents that you have to submit are birth certificates, marriage certificates, driver’s licenses, passports, visas, bank accounts, etc. If the documents are not already in english, a certified english translation will need to be included. Not getting your documents translated and getting the translation certified can delay your application by up to 6 months.

3. Forgetting to sign your forms

Potential Time Lost: 6 months

Potential Money Lost: $50-$100

All of the work spent on making sure you have a perfect application can be wasted if you don’t sign your forms AND sign them in the proper place. This is important: make sure that you SIGN ALL YOUR FORMS. Also, make sure that the correct person is signing the correct form. Some places the person getting the green card will be signing, the applicant or beneficiary. Sometimes the person who is sponsoring the person getting the green card will be signing, this person can be referred to as a petitioner or applicant on the actual USCIS forms. This part is tricky, but getting it wrong means an automatic rejection by the USCIS. Take a few minutes to double-check everything before shipping it off to the government.

4. Incorrect government payment

Potential Time Lost: 2-4 months

Potential Money Lost: $50-$100

Many people mess up the actual fees that the government charges to process the green card application. The USCIS is charging you a lot for your application and you need to make sure that you are signing your personal checks correctly and for the right amounts. The instructions on the USCIS forms will tell you how much it cost to process each form/application. If you are submitting an application for a green card, expect to be sending at least $1,000 to the US government. If you are only attaching a check for $100 or $300, then something is wrong. The USCIS will send your application back with an invoice for the correct amount. This will put you at the back of the line and leave you feeling frustrated.

5. Missing an important deadline

Potential Time Lost: 6 months

Potential Other Possible Repercussions: Denied Application

Once you enter the United States and begin your green card application process, the clock starts ticking with several important deadlines that you need to be aware of. You need to think about your visa expiration date, the dates for processing the application, the dates for the interview and finally the renewal deadline 2 years after. Missing these dates can be dangerous and result in a denied application. The US government takes these deadlines very seriously and will assume that you do not want to become a lawful permanent resident if you miss one. Make sure that you have a clear understanding of the timing of the application and where you will need to be when the time comes to avoid missing out on that appointment and becoming a green card holder.

6. Accidently giving false information

Potential Time Loss: 6 months – 1 year

Potential Other Possible Repercussions: LIFETIME BAN FROM US

Getting your background history wrong, even by accident, can be seen as lying on your application. If the US government thinks that you are lying on your application, your application is likely to get denied. Make sure that you have all of your dates, locations, criminal records, and important items handy while you are filling out the application. This way you can avoid mixing up your own history and creating serious complications for your application.

7. Falling for a scam

Potential Time Lost: 6 months – 2 years

Potential Money Lost: $500 - 5,000+

There are thousands of people trying to take advantage of immigrants every year. Notarios are just one type of scam out there. The most important thing to remember when going through the green card application process is “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is”. Stay away from online websites that ask for a credit card without guarantees. Avoid shady lawyers that demand payments before hearing your case. Do your homework before trusting someone to help you with your immigration paperwork. If you make the mistake of getting scammed, you may lose your chances of becoming a legal permanent resident forever.

8. Not getting the right help

Potential Time Lost: 6 months

If you try to do something really complicated without any help, all by yourself, there is a good chance you will make a mistake. Immigration is not a game and mistakes are costly. Don’t waste valuable time and money trying to do everything by yourself. Immigration paperwork is scary even for people that speak English fluently. There are many organizations and resources to help you through this process. Use the resources and avoid mistakes. Every year, more than 100,000 applications are rejected by the USCIS due to avoidable mistakes. With the right help, you can easily avoid these mistakes and save yourself months and years of waiting. Not getting help can be one of the most costly mistakes.

9. Not being eligible to apply

Potential Time Lost: 6 months

If you submit a green card application and you don’t qualify, you will get rejected. This is a no-brainer, but sometimes figuring out when and how you can actually apply can be really tricky. If you make the mistake of submitting a green card application too soon, too late, with the wrong person, or for a thousand other reasons, you will lose months of valuable time. The USCIS has tools to help you figure this out. Even after doing your homework, sometimes it is helpful to consult with an immigration attorney to make sure you are not missing something important.

10. Financial requirement issues

Potential Time Lost: 2-4 months

When you submit a green card application you need to have a financial sponsor. This financial sponsor will be submitting the Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. There are several requirements for this person to be your financial sponsor; they need to be a US citizen, they need to live in the US, and they need to meet the income requirements as outlined in the Form I-864P, Poverty Guidelines for the Affidavit of Support.

If your sponsor doesn’t make enough money, they can have someone else step in as a joint-sponsor to include their income to meet the requirements. Adding another person like this also increases the amount of income needed. There could be a whole different 5 Common Mistakes Made on the Form I-864, and for this reason, it is a common trap for people trying to get a green card. Read the instructions carefully to make sure that if your petitioner doesn’t meet the requirements, that you are working with someone that does meet the requirements for their household size, plus the person that will be getting the green card.

This is not a complete list. There are many mistakes that people can make when submitting a green card application. These are just some of the most common. If you take your time and are very careful you will make it through this process without too much trouble. This is an exciting part of your life and you shouldn’t be worried and stressed about paperwork.