Are you looking forward to starting a new chapter in the United States, be that for work, family, or study? Whatever your plans for 2025 may be, applying for a visa can be a complex process if you’re not familiar with all the steps and documentation required. From the get-go, one of the most important aspects is thorough research, proper planning, and gathering the necessary information.
For that very reason, it’s recommended to contact an immigration lawyer who will help you throughout the process and help you get familiar with USCIS immigration forms. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process easier and stress-free.
Prepare for Your Visa Application
If you want your chances of getting a visa to go up, you need to pay close attention to every detail and be very thorough. To begin, you need to know about the different types of visas, gather the necessary paperwork, and correctly fill out the application form.
Get Familiar with USCIS Immigration Forms
Years ago, when I started my own visa application process, the great number of forms was super overwhelming as each one serves a unique purpose. Truth be told, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website became my best friend as I spent quite a lot of time on it reading through the descriptions of every form and trying to understand their requirements. Here are the most common forms to know.
Immigration Forms When Applying for a Green Card
If you want to apply for a Green Card, you’ll have to file various different forms as each one plays a specific role in the immigration process.
Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative
Form I-130 can be filed by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who want to establish a family relationship with a foreign relative. This is usually the first step in the Green Card process for family members like spouses, children, or parents. This form proves the family connection and opens the doors for the immigrant’s application.
Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
If you’re already in the United States and you have a valid visa, you can apply for permanent residency without having to leave the country with the help of Form I-485. Thanks to this form, you can adjust your status and transition from a temporary visa holder to a Green Card holder.
Form I-864: Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA
The purpose of Form I-864 is to ensure that the Green Card applicant will not become a public charge. Filed by the sponsor—usually the petitioner who filed the I-130—this form demonstrates that the sponsor has sufficient financial means to support the immigrant.
Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization
Green Card processing times can stretch out, and waiting applicants may need a way to support themselves. Form I-765 lets Green Card candidates lawfully work in the United States while their application is being handled. For many people waiting, this form might be a lifeline.
Form I-693: Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record
To demonstrate that you meet the health standards set by USCIS, you’ll need to file Form I-693. This form requires a medical examination conducted by an authorized civil surgeon. The results verify that the applicant is free of communicable diseases and meets vaccination requirements.
Form I-751: Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence
If you received a conditional Green Card through marriage, you’ll need to file Form I-751 to remove the two-year conditions on your residency. Successfully filing this form allows you to transition to full permanent resident status, provided the marriage is bona fide.
Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
Green Cards are not indefinite and may require renewal or replacement. Whether due to expiration, damage, or loss, Form I-90 is the go-to application for maintaining a valid Green Card.
US Citizenship Immigration Forms
And then, there is also a wide range of forms used in the citizenship process. Here are the most important ones.
Form N-400: Application for Naturalization
Form N-400 is the most essential form for people aspiring to become U.S. citizens. Permanent residents who meet the eligibility criteria file this form to start their naturalization journey. The process includes proving residency, demonstrating good moral character, and passing a citizenship test. Submitting this form is a significant step toward obtaining the rights and privileges of U.S. citizenship.
Form N-600: Application for Certificate of Citizenship
Form N-600 is designed for individuals who acquired U.S. citizenship automatically through their parents, either by birth abroad or through naturalization. This form provides official proof of citizenship, which can be crucial for various legal and administrative purposes. It’s particularly important for children of U.S. citizens born abroad or those who derived citizenship after their parents’ naturalization.
Form N-565: Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document
Life occurs, and papers might be lost, destroyed, or stolen. Form N-565 is extremely useful for US residents who need to replace a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. Whether it’s due to wear and tear or changes in personal information, such as a name, this form guarantees that you get a new document quickly.
Form N-426: Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service
Form N-426 caters specifically to members of the U.S. military. If you’ve served in the military and are pursuing naturalization, this form certifies your service. It’s a unique acknowledgment of the contributions made by service members and simplifies the naturalization process for them.
Form N-470: Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes
Form N-470 is especially useful for permanent residents of the U.S. who work abroad but still want to keep their immigration status. If you work for a U.S. government agency or a known foreign group, for example, you need to fill out this form to show that you have lived in the U.S. continuously for naturalization reasons. It’s an important tool for people who want to become U.S. citizens but also have duties in other countries.
Ask for Professional Help if Needed
I’ll be honest: immigration law can be complex. If you’re feeling unsure or if your case is particularly complicated, your best bet is to consult an immigration attorney or an accredited representative. I reached out to a lawyer when I encountered questions I couldn’t answer on my own. Yes, it’s an added expense, but the peace of mind was priceless. A professional can help you go through tricky situations stress-free, help make sure your forms are accurate and even represent you in case of issues.
