What Are the Most Common Mistakes Made on Immigration Applications?

Immigration law is complex and often stressful to navigate in the United States. There are an abundance of steps and required paperwork that must be completed before you can enter, work, and live in the country. While you likely reviewed your immigration application many times, minor errors often slip through the cracks. Continue reading to learn about the most common mistakes found on immigration applications, and work with a knowledgeable immigration attorney in NYC for experienced legal advice.

What is an Immigration Application?

An immigration application is simply a request that a foreign individual files with the United States government, generally the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). “Immigration application” can apply to a wide variety of forms, all designed to validate an individual’s status in the United States.

An application can be used to apply for a visa, adjustment of status, employment authorization, asylum, green card, naturalization, and other immigration benefits.

What Are the Most Common Mistakes on Immigration Applications?

Even small and seemingly insignificant errors on an immigration application can lead to delays in processing, denials, or even removal proceedings. That is why it is crucial that you understand and avoid the most common mistakes that applicants make. Consider the following.

1. Incomplete answers or forms: One of the most common mistakes applicants make is submitting incomplete forms. Applicants may overlook and miss a section, skip questions and forget to go back to them, believe that a section does not apply to them, etc. Double-check every section before submitting your application, and consider filling in N/A if a question does not apply to you instead of leaving it blank to avoid this issue.
2. Mistakes or inconsistencies: Any mistake or inconsistency between forms and documents can be detrimental, whether it is a spelling error, the wrong date, or more serious inaccuracies. Do not rush and make sure to compare all information to other documents to ensure accuracy.
3. Missing deadlines: Immigration applications often have strict deadlines, and missing a deadline can cause delays or rejections. Keep track of all important dates in a calendar and file as early as possible to avoid missing a deadline.
4. Failure to provide supporting documentation: It may seem excessive, but many applications require a substantial amount of documentation, like passports, visas, birth certificates, marriage licenses, financial statements, etc. Missing documents or submitting the wrong documents is a common cause of delays and denials, so make a detailed checklist to avoid this error.
5. Failure to update your address: Accurate information is pertinent to your application, and something like an updated address is often forgotten. The USCIS and other agencies may send important information and notices to an old address, causing you to miss crucial communications. Be sure to notify the USCIS as soon as you move to avoid these issues.

There are dozens of mistakes that can be made during the immigration application process, so it is crucial that you take your time and ensure that you are meeting all requirements. Working with an immigration attorney is one of the most beneficial ways to avoid these errors, as they have the knowledge and experience to detect and correct mistakes.