How to File Perfect USCIS Forms for Family Green Cards
Applicants and Sponsors generally underestimate the time, effort, and attention to details completing USCIS Forms I-130, I-485, I-864, and I-131 require. Many learn this too late when their Green Card case is rejected by USCIS, or processing is delayed by a Request for Evidence.
Here are some Guiding Principles to do your USCIS forms right, illustrated with examples from USCIS Forms and Immigration Planner’s online smart forms.
1st Principle
Answer using the right Vocabulary
2nd Principle
Learn the power of N/A and NONE
‘NONE’ is an active way to say ‘No’ (or zero).
- Does the applicant have an Alien Number?
‘N/A’ should not be used here. USCIS may view it as an attempt to avoid answering the question without explicitly lying. - Leaving the fields blank creates an ambiguity. Did you forget to answer a question or was this on purpose?
Example: Do not leave empty ‘Other Names’ questions. Be sure to enter NONE.