The Risk of Making Mistakes in Immigration Paperwork

 Posted on October 21, 2024 in Immigration

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the Homeland Security agency responsible for America’s naturalization and immigration system. It has been operating to provide better security and efficiency to the immigration process since 2003.

A significant recent change to USCIS’ fee structure has impacted the entire system. If, as a result of these changes, you mistakenly fill out your paperwork incorrectly, it could mean your entire immigration process is delayed or stopped. If you are interested in immigrating to the United States and are unsure how the USCIS fees might affect you, speak with an experienced Itasca, IL immigration lawyer.

What Are the Recent USCIS Fee Changes?

USCIS has implemented a newly restructured fee structure that separates green card applications into different fee categories. This has led to increased confusion in general, and about which applications are relevant for certain scenarios in particular. Since your immigration process can be delayed if you apply under the wrong category, it has become crucial to ensure that you are filing your paperwork properly.

Some of the changes include:

• A new Asylum Program Fee applicable for some employment-based petitions, which is $600.

• Separate required fees for applying for employment authorization and travel documentation.

• Updated fees for naturalization applications, with different rates depending on whether you file online.

What Happens if I Make a Mistake in My Immigration Application?

Now that the fee structure is more complex, it is easy to make a small mistake. If you select the wrong fee category or fail to submit a form, your immigration process can be delayed by months or years. This could lead you to lose your job and your legal status in the country, potentially separating you from your family.

How Can I Avoid Immigration Paperwork Mistakes?

One of the best things you can do to ensure that you properly file your immigration paperwork and understand the fee structure is to hire a reliable immigration attorney who can:

• Explain which applications you need to submit and what fees you need to pay

• Ensure your documents are all submitted within the necessary timelines

• Inform you of any further USCIS changes

• Help you navigate any obstacles

Contact a DuPage County, IL Immigration Lawyer

If you are pursuing immigration and finding it hard to navigate recent changes and new obstacles to the process, a qualified Itasca, IL immigration attorney can guide you through the process and advocate aggressively on your behalf. At Unzueta Law Group, P.C., we believe bureaucratic challenges should not keep you from fulfilling your goals. Call us at 630-509-2363 to schedule a private consultation so our experienced team can assist you.