Even native-born Americans with command of the language and familiarity with the federal government can find it difficult to navigate the system at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. For immigrants and foreign visitors, the challenge can be overwhelming. Here is some practical advice for visa applicants and other petitioners:
1. Make sure you have the right form. There are dozens of immigration forms, and the government is continually revising them and changing fee requirements. Close doesn't count when it comes to applying for visas. If you fill out the wrong form, you get nothing. Submitting an outdated application or paying the wrong amount guarantees rejection. Current forms are available for free from USCIS.
2. Don't forget to sign your name. Despite abundant reminders and warnings, federal officials say an amazing number of applications are rejected each year simply because they have no signature. Don't overlook the obvious.
3. Incomplete information. Many immigration forms ask applicants to enter the same information more than once. Don't be afraid to repeat yourself. Treat each question as a separate entity and respond as completely and accurately as possible.
4. Inconsistent information. Don't refer to yourself with one name in one section of the form, then use a nickname in the next. Don't write out a full address on one line, then abbreviate or truncate the same information later on. It only raises confusion and increases the chance of rejection.
5. Watch the typos. All it takes is a misspelled name or word in a critical response and your application can be denied. Have someone proofread your papers before submitting them. Get help with English and translation if you need it.
6. Don't be overwhelmed by bureaucratic jargon and complexity. The federal world of visas, waivers, affidavits, permits, lotteries and paroles can be daunting for the layman to navigate. But the process is surmountable if you follow the rules and work through the tedium. Applications really do get approved - all told, about 7 million of them last year.
7. Be truthful in your responses. The government understands that you want to put your best face forward, but don't be dishonest. The consequences for filing a fraudulent or inaccurate application can be severe.
8. Consult a qualified attorney. If you need one, reputable lawyers are easy to find. Complicated cases, especially those involving criminal records, do require professional legal help. Search for a lawyer through the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Get references before you hire an attorney and be sure to ask about fees.
9. Beware of scammers. Sadly, many immigrants fall victim to disreputable, unqualified persons who claim to be well-connected notaries, paralegals or even lawyers. They make promises they can't keep and often charge exorbitant fees for simply filling out papers the applicant could have completed without help. Some scammers even sell government forms. Never pay for forms; they are all free and can be downloaded online www.uscis.gov/forms.
10. Don't give up easily. If your application is denied, you can always try to resolve the problem with USCIS and re-apply. If you are rejected for one type of visa, you might then apply for another. Persistence is routinely rewarded.
