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The I-912 Waiver form is a critical document for individuals seeking a fee waiver for various immigration applications and petitions submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form allows applicants to express their inability to pay the required fees due to financial constraints. When completing the I-912, applicants must provide specific personal information such as their full name, date of birth, and Alien Registration Number, along with details about their household income and any means-tested benefits they may be receiving. The form includes a section for enumerating the forms for which a fee waiver is being requested, which enables applicants to indicate their financial circumstances clearly. Applicants must select at least one qualifying basis for their request, such as receiving a means-tested benefit, having a household income below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or demonstrating financial hardship. Supporting documentation is essential for substantiating the claims made within the form. Proper completion is vital, as incomplete or unsigned applications may result in rejection or denial of the fee waiver request. This structured approach helps ensure that USCIS can evaluate the financial situation of each requestor effectively.

I 912 Waiver Example

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Request for Fee Waiver

 

USCIS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Department of Homeland Security

 

Form I-912

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OMB No. 1615-0116

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

 

Expires: 09/30/2022

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Application Receipted At (Select only one box)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For

 

 

 

 

USCIS Field Office

 

 

 

 

USCIS Service Center

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USCIS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Use

 

 

Fee Waiver Approved

 

Fee Waiver Denied

 

 

Fee Waiver Approved

 

Fee Waiver Denied

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Only

 

 

Date:______________

 

Date:______________

 

 

Date:______________

 

Date:______________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

►START HERE - Type or print in black ink.

If you need extra space to complete any section of this request or if you would like to provide additional information about your circumstances, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.

Complete and submit as many copies of Part 11., as necessary, with your request.

Part 1. Basis for Your Request (Each basis is further explained in the Specific Instructions section of the

Form I-912 Instructions)

Select at least one basis or more for which you may qualify and provide supporting documentation for any basis you select. You only need to qualify and provide documentation for one basis for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to grant your fee waiver. If you choose, you may select more than one basis; you must provide supporting documentation for each basis you want considered.

1.

2.

3.

I am, my spouse is, or the head of household living in my household is currently receiving a means-tested benefit. (Complete Parts 2. - 4. and Parts 7. - 10.)

My household income is at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. (Complete Parts 2. - 3., Part 5., and 7. - 10.)

I have a financial hardship. (Complete Parts 2. -3. and Parts 6. - 10.)

Part 2. Information About You (Requestor)

Provide information about yourself if you are the person requesting a fee waiver for a petition or application you are filing. If you are the parent or legal guardian filing on behalf of a child or person with a physical disability or developmental or mental impairment, provide information about the child or person for whom you are filing this form.

1.Full Name

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name

 

 

 

 

 

2.Other Names Used (if any)

List all other names you have used, including nicknames, aliases, and maiden name.

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)

4. USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

 

► A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

►

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

6. U.S. Social Security Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 1 of 11

Part 2. Information About You (Requestor) (continued)

7.Marital Status

Single, Never Married

Other (Explain)

Married

Divorced

Widowed

Marriage Annulled

Separated

Part 3. Applications and Petitions for Which You Are Requesting a Fee Waiver

1.In the table below, add the form numbers of the applications and petitions for which you are requesting a fee waiver.

Applications or Petitions for You and Your Family Members

Full Name

 

 

A-Number (if any)

Date of Birth

Relationship to You Forms Being Filed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SELF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Number of Forms (including self)

Part 4. Means-Tested Benefits

If you selected Item Number 1. in Part 1., complete this section.

1.If you, your spouse, or the head of household (including parent if the child is under 21 years of age) living with you is receiving any means-tested benefits, list the information in the table below and attach supporting documentation. If you are the parent or legal guardian filing on behalf of a child or person with a physical disability or developmental or mental impairment, provide information about the child or person for whom you are filing this form if he or she is receiving a means-tested benefit.

Means-Tested Benefit Recipients

Full Name of Person

Relationship

Receiving the Benefit

to You

 

 

Name of Agency Awarding Benefit

Type of Benefit

Date Benefit Date Benefit Expires was Awarded (or must be renewed)

Part 5. Income at or Below 150 Percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines

If you selected Item Number 2. in Part 1., complete this section.

Your Employment Status

1. Employment Status

 

Employed (full-time, part-time,

Unemployed or

seasonal, self-employed)

Not Employed

Retired

Other (Explain)

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 2 of 11

Part 5. Income at or Below 150 Percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (continued)

2.If you are currently unemployed, are you currently receiving unemployment benefits?

A.Date you became unemployed (mm/dd/yyyy)

Information About Your Spouse

3.If you are married or separated, does your spouse live in your household?

A.If you answered “No” to Item Number 3., does your spouse provide any financial support to your household?

Yes No

Yes No

Yes No

Your Household Size

4.Are you the person providing the primary financial support for your household?

Yes

No

If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 4., type or print your name on the line marked “self” in the table below. If you answered “No” to Item Number 4., type or print your name on the line marked “self” in the table below and add the head of household's name on the line below yours.

Household Size

Full

Date of

Relationship

 

 

Full-Time

Is any income earned by this

Married

 

person counted towards the

Name

Birth

to You

 

Student

 

 

 

 

household income?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SELF

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Household Size (including self)

Your Annual Household Income

Provide information about your income and the income of all family members counted as part of your household. You must list all amounts in U.S. dollars.

5.

Your Annual Income

$

 

6.

Annual Income of All Family Members

 

 

 

 

 

Provide the annual income of all family members counted as part of your household as listed in Item Number 4. (Do not include

 

the amount provided in Item Number 5.)

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.

Total Additional Income or Financial Support

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provide the total annual amount you receive in additional income or financial support from a source outside of your household. (Do not include the amount provided in Item Numbers 5. or 6.) You must add all of the additional income and financial support amounts and put the total amount in the space provided. Type or print "0" in the total box if there are none. Select the type of additional income or financial support that you receive and provide documentation.

Parental Support

Spousal Support (Alimony)

Child Support

Educational Stipends

Royalties

Pensions

Unemployment Benefits

Social Security Benefits

Veteran's Benefits

Financial Support From Adult Children,

Dependents, Other People Living in the

Household

Other (Explain)

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 3 of 11

Part 5. Income at or Below 150 Percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (continued)

8. Total Household Income (add the amounts from Item Numbers 5., 6., and 7.)

$

9.Has anything changed since the date you filed your Federal tax returns? (For example, your marital status, income, or number of dependents.)

Yes

No

If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 9., provide an explanation below. Provide documentation if available. You may also use this space to provide any additional information about your circumstances that you would like USCIS to consider.

Part 6. Financial Hardship

If you selected Item Number 3. in Part 1., complete this section.

1.If you or any family members have a situation that has caused you to incur expenses, debts, or loss of income, describe the situation in the box below. Specify the amounts of the expenses, debts, and income losses in as much detail as possible. Examples may include medical expenses, job loss, eviction, and homelessness.

2.If you have cash or assets that you can quickly convert to cash, list those in the table below. For example, bank accounts, stocks, or bonds. (Do not include retirement accounts.)

Assets

Type of Asset

Value (U.S. Dollars)

Total Value of Assets

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 4 of 11

Part 6. Financial Hardship (continued)

3. Total Monthly Expenses and Liabilities

$

Provide the total monthly amount of your expenses and liabilities. You must add all of the expense and liability amounts and type or print the total amount in the space provided. Type or print "0" in the total box if there are none. Select the types of expenses or liabilities you have each month and provide evidence of monthly payments, where possible.

Rent and/or Mortgage

Food

Utilities

Child and/or Elder Care

Insurance

Loans and/or Credit Cards

Car Payment

Commuting Costs

Medical Expenses

School Expenses

Other

Part 7. Requestor's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-912 Instructions before completing this part.

Each person applying for a fee waiver request must complete, sign, and date Form I-912 and provide the required documentation. This includes family members identified in Part 3. Signature fields for family members are at the end of this part. If an individual is under 14 years of age, a parent or legal guardian may sign the request on their behalf. USCIS rejects any Form I-912 that is not signed by all individuals requesting a fee waiver and may deny a request that does not provide required documentation.

Select the box for either Item A. or B. in Item Number 1. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.

1.Requestor's Statement Regarding the Interpreter

A.

I can read and understand English, and I have read and understand every question and instruction on this request and my answer to every question.

B.

The interpreter named in Part 9. read to me every question and instruction on this request and my answer to every

question in

 

, a language in which I am fluent,

 

 

 

and I understood everything.

2. Requestor's Statement Regarding the Preparer (if applicable)

 

At my request, the preparer named in Part 10.,

 

,

 

 

 

prepared this request for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.

 

Requestor's Contact Information

3. Requestor's Daytime Telephone Number

4. Requestor's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

5.Requestor's Email Address (if any)

Requestor's Certification

Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that USCIS may require that I submit original documents to USCIS at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any of my records that USCIS may need to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit I seek.

I further authorize release of information contained in this request, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS records to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I provided or authorized all of the information in my request, I understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my request, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 5 of 11

Part 7. Requestor's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature (continued)

WARNING: If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material fact or submit a false document with your Form I-912, USCIS will deny your fee waiver request and may deny any other immigration benefit. In addition, you may face severe penalties provided by law and may be subject to criminal prosecution.

Requestor's Signature

6. Requestor's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

NOTE TO ALL REQUESTORS: If you do not completely fill out this request or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS may deny your request.

Family Members' Signatures

NOTE: Each family member must type or print their full name and sign in the spaces below. You can find additional family members' signature spaces in Item Numbers 7. - 10. below. All family members identified in Part 3. must sign and date Form I-912.

I certify that the information provided by the requestor in Part 7. applies to me.

7.Family Member 1 Family Member's Name

Family Member's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

8.Family Member 2 Family Member's Name

Family Member's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

9.Family Member 3 Family Member's Name

Family Member's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

10.Family Member 4 Family Member's Name

Family Member's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

11.Family Member 5 Family Member's Name

Family Member's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 6 of 11

Part 8. Family Member's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-912 Instructions before completing this part.

If the information provided by the requestor in Part 7. is not applicable to a family member identified in Part 3., (for example, the family member used an interpreter or speaks a different language) that individual should complete Part 8. USCIS rejects any Form I-912 that is not signed by all individuals requesting a fee waiver.

Select the box for either Item A. or B. in Item Number 1. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.

1.Family Member's Statement Regarding the Interpreter for

A.

I can read and understand English, and I have read and understand every question and instruction on this request and my answer to every question.

B.

The interpreter named in Part 9. read to me every question and instruction on this request and my answer to every

question in

 

, a language in which I am fluent, and

 

 

 

 

I understood everything.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Family Member's Statement Regarding the Preparer for

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At my request, the preparer named in Part 10.,

 

 

 

,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

prepared this request for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.

 

 

Family Member's Contact Information

3. Family Member's Daytime Telephone Number

4. Family Member's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

5.Family Member's Email Address (if any)

Family Member's Certification

Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that USCIS may require that I submit original documents to USCIS at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any of my records that USCIS may need to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit I seek.

I further authorize release of information contained in this request, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS records to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I provided or authorized all of the information in my request, I understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my request, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.

Family Member's Signature

6. Family Member's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

NOTE TO ALL FAMILY MEMBERS: If you do not completely fill out this request or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS may deny your request.

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 7 of 11

Part 9. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

1.

Did any person filing this request use an interpreter?

Yes, (complete this section)

2.Was the same interpreter used for all individuals requesting a fee waiver (as listed in Part 3.)?

No (skip to Part 10.)

Yes No

NOTE for Family Members: If you used a different interpreter than the one used by the requestor, make additional copies of Part 9., provide the following information, indicate the family member for whom he or she interpreted, and include the pages with your completed Form I-912.

Provide the following information about the interpreter for

Interpreter's Full Name

3. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)

 

Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)

 

 

 

 

4.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Interpreter's Mailing Address

(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)

5. Street Number and Name

 

 

 

 

Apt.

Ste. Flr. Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or Town

 

 

 

 

State

 

 

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Province

Postal Code

 

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interpreter's Contact Information

6. Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number

7. Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

8.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)

Interpreter's Certification

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:

 

I am fluent in English and

, which is the same language specified

in Part 7., Item B. in Item Number 1., and I have read to this requestor in the identified language every question and instruction on this request and his or her answer to every question. The requestor informed me that he or she understands every instruction, question, and answer on the request, including the Applicant's Certification, and has verified the accuracy of every answer.

Interpreter's Signature

9. Interpreter's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 8 of 11

Part 10. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Request, if Other Than the Requestor

1.

Did any person prepare this request on your behalf?

Yes, (complete this section)

2. Was the same preparer used for all individuals requesting a fee waiver (as listed in Part 3.)?

No, skip

Yes No

NOTE for Family Members: If you used a different preparer than the one used by the requestor, provide the following information, and include the pages with your completed Form I-912.

Provide the following information about the preparer for

Preparer's Full Name

3.Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)

4.Preparer's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Preparer's Mailing Address

5.Street Number and Name

Preparer's Given Name (First Name)

Apt. Ste. Flr. Number

City or Town

 

 

 

 

State

 

ZIP Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Province

Postal Code

Country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preparer's Contact Information

6. Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number

7. Preparer's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

 

 

 

 

8.Preparer's Email Address (if any)

Preparer's Statement

9.A.

B.

I am not an attorney or accredited representative but have prepared this request on behalf of the requestor and with the requestor's consent.

I am an attorney or accredited representative and my representation of the requestor in this case

extends

does not extend beyond the preparation of this request.

NOTE: If you are an attorney or accredited representative, you may be obliged to submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, or G-28I, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney In Matters Outside the Geographical Confines of the United States, with this request.

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 9 of 11

Part 10. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Request, if Other Than the Requestor (continued)

Preparer's Certification

By my signature, I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I prepared this request at the request of the requestor. The requestor then reviewed this completed request and informed me that he or she understands all of the information contained in, and submitted with, his or her request, including the Applicant's Certification, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct. I completed this request based only on information that the requestor provided to me or authorized me to obtain or use.

Preparer's Signature

10. Preparer's Signature

 

Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

 

 

Form I-912 Edition 03/10/21

Page 10 of 11
Get I 912 Waiver PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The I-912 Waiver form is utilized to request a fee waiver for applications or petitions submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Eligibility Criteria Individuals may qualify for a fee waiver if they receive means-tested benefits, have a household income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or face financial hardship.
Parts Required The form consists of multiple sections where applicants provide personal information, the basis for the fee waiver request, and documentation supporting their eligibility.
Documentation Applicants must submit supporting documents for each basis they select; however, qualifying under just one basis is sufficient for approval.
Application Types The waiver can be requested for various forms filed with USCIS, including but not limited to naturalization and adjustment of status applications.
Signature Requirement All individuals requesting a fee waiver must sign the form. If an applicant is under 14 years of age, a parent or legal guardian must sign on their behalf.
Processing Time USCIS may take several weeks to process the fee waiver request. This period can vary based on the application volume.
Denial Consequences If a fee waiver is denied, USCIS will require full payment of the application fees, and the application may be at risk of denial if not submitted with the appropriate fees.
Submission Guidelines The completed form should be submitted as part of the application package to USCIS, which includes any necessary supporting documents.
Governing Law The use and processing of the I-912 Waiver form falls under U.S. immigration laws and regulations administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Guidelines on Utilizing I 912 Waiver

Filling out the I-912 Waiver form requires careful attention to detail and accuracy. Once completed, submit it to USCIS along with any required supporting documentation. Ensure that no field is left blank unless specified. Payments can often be waived if the request is approved, making this step crucial for those needing assistance.

  1. Provide your personal information in Part 2. Include your full name, any other names you’ve used, Alien Registration Number (if applicable), and Social Security Number (if applicable).
  2. Select your marital status.
  3. Identify which applications or petitions you are seeking a fee waiver for in Part 3. Note down the relevant form numbers and your relationship to each applicant.
  4. If applicable, complete Part 4 by listing any means-tested benefits received by you, your spouse, or head of household. Attach supporting documents.
  5. For Part 5, report your income. This includes your annual income and the income of all family members in your household. Provide details on additional financial support.
  6. In Part 6, if you are experiencing financial hardship, describe your situation clearly. List assets that can be quickly converted to cash and provide information about monthly expenses.
  7. Complete Part 7 with your certification and signature. Ensure you sign the form and select whether you had assistance understanding it, if applicable.
  8. Include contact information in Part 7, such as your daytime and mobile telephone numbers, and email address if you have one.
  9. Review the entire form for accuracy before submitting. Double-check that all fields are filled in and that you have attached the necessary documents.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the I-912 Waiver form used for?

The I-912 Waiver form is a request for a fee waiver from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It allows individuals to apply for certain immigration benefits without paying the associated filing fees. This form is particularly useful for those who may be experiencing financial hardship or are receiving means-tested public benefits. By submitting this form with the required documentation, applicants can potentially make their immigration process more affordable.

Who can apply for a fee waiver using the I-912 form?

Anyone seeking a fee waiver can fill out the I-912 form as long as they meet specific criteria. Applicants can qualify if they receive means-tested benefits, have an income at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or are facing a financial hardship. It’s not limited to the applicant alone; a spouse or a household member can also be considered. The person applying must supply supporting documents to prove their eligibility based on one or more of these criteria.

What documents need to be submitted with the I-912 Waiver form?

When filling out the I-912 Waiver form, it’s essential to include supporting documents that validate the basis of your request. If you chose to cite means-tested benefits, provide proof of these benefits from the issuing agency. For those stating low income, documentation like pay stubs, tax returns, or proof of other financial support must be submitted. If claiming financial hardship, detail the circumstances and provide any relevant documentation, such as medical bills or eviction notices. Ensuring that all necessary documents are included can help avoid delays in processing your request.

How long does it take to process the I-912 Waiver form?

The processing time for the I-912 Waiver form can vary depending on several factors, such as the volume of requests at USCIS and the specifics of your case. Typically, you can expect it to take a few weeks to a few months. Once USCIS processes your request, they will notify you whether your waiver has been approved or denied. It is important to keep track of your case status through the USCIS website or customer service channels for the most accurate information.

Common mistakes

When individuals complete the I-912 Waiver form, several common mistakes can occur, negatively affecting their waiver request. These errors can lead to delays or denials, ultimately complicating the immigration process.

One frequent mistake is not selecting a qualifying basis for the fee waiver. The form allows applicants to choose multiple bases; however, failing to select at least one can result in an outright denial. It is crucial to understand which criteria apply and ensure that supporting documentation is provided for each basis selected.

Another error is incomplete or vague information in Part 2, which requests personal details about the applicant. Missing information such as previous names, Social Security numbers, or Alien Registration Numbers can hinder processing. It is essential to double-check all responses for accuracy and completeness.

Inaccuracies in the financial information section also pose significant problems. Applicants should clearly report their income and any financial support they receive. Failing to list all sources of income or not properly documenting information can lead to inconsistencies that may cause suspicion and result in denial.

Many applicants neglect to provide required documentation for claims made on the form. For example, if claiming benefits in Part 4, supporting paperwork from the awarding agency is necessary. Omitting these documents creates ambiguity about the applicant’s financial situation, potentially jeopardizing the waiver request.

Another common mistake involves misunderstanding the household size. Applicants must accurately determine the total household size, including individuals contributing to or deriving income from the household. Misreporting this can artificially inflate or deflate household income calculations, influencing whether they meet the income guidelines.

Many requestors rush through the financial hardships section without detailed explanations. Applicants should outline specific situations contributing to their financial strain. Vague descriptions may lead USCIS to doubt their circumstances, weakening the case for a fee waiver.

Finally, neglecting to sign and date the form is a fundamental yet frequent error. Each individual requesting a waiver must provide a signature. Without these, the application will be rejected, highlighting the importance of thoroughness in the submission process.

Documents used along the form

The Form I-912 is used to request a fee waiver for certain immigration applications and petitions. When applying for a fee waiver, you may need to submit additional documents to support your request. Below are some common forms and documents that are often submitted alongside the I-912 Waiver form. Each plays a role in establishing eligibility and providing necessary information to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

  • Form I-130: This is the Petition for Alien Relative. When a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident wants to bring a family member to the U.S., this form is filed. It is often submitted with the fee waiver request to show the relationship.
  • Form I-485: This form is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Those applying for a green card may seek a fee waiver for this application in conjunction with Form I-912.
  • Proof of Income: Documentation such as pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements can demonstrate financial eligibility for a fee waiver. This evidence supports claims of income being at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
  • Means-Tested Benefits Evidence: If you or a household member is receiving any means-tested benefits, documentation such as award letters or statements from relevant agencies is crucial to substantiate your claim.
  • Form I-864: This is the Affidavit of Support. Petitioners may need to submit this form to indicate they can financially support the immigrant or applicant, especially when the fee waiver is requested based on financial hardship.
  • Form G-28: If someone is representing you, this form acts as a notice of entry of appearance as attorney or accredited representative. It is critical for ensuring that all communication goes through the correct channels.

Gathering and submitting these additional documents can enhance the chances of a successful fee waiver request. It is essential to ensure that all provided information is accurate and complete. Your ability to clearly communicate your financial situation plays a pivotal role in the evaluation of your application.

Similar forms

  • Form I-864P, Poverty Guidelines: This document outlines the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which can help determine eligibility for various programs and forms. Like the I-912, it assesses financial need based on household income.
  • Form I-131, Application for Travel Document: A fee waiver may be requested for this application if the individual demonstrates financial hardship, similar to the conditions described in the I-912.
  • Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: Applicants for this form can request a fee waiver under specific conditions of financial need, paralleling the I-912’s purpose.
  • Form N-400, Application for Naturalization: Much like the I-912, the N-400 allows fee waiver applications based on income or receipt of certain public benefits, screening for financial qualifications.
  • Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence: This form includes a fee waiver option for individuals facing financial hardship, echoing the eligibility criteria of the I-912.
  • Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility: Similar to the I-912, this form allows for a waiver request where financial hardship is demonstrated as a factor affecting the petitioner's ability to pay fees.
  • Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card: This application allows for a fee waiver under comparable circumstances of financial distress, just as the fee waiver process in the I-912.
  • Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship: Like the I-912, eligible applicants can seek a waiver for associated fees based on financial need, ensuring equitable access to the process.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the I-912 Waiver form, there are several important actions to take and avoid. The following list outlines key do's and don’ts to ensure a smooth process.

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting. Understanding what information USCIS requires is crucial.
  • Do provide accurate and complete information on all sections of the form. Double-check for any errors or omissions.
  • Do attach all necessary supporting documents to substantiate your request for a fee waiver.
  • Do print or type your responses in black ink to ensure clarity.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank. If a section doesn't apply to you, mark it appropriately or indicate "N/A."
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form. Unsigned applications can be rejected, delaying your request.

Misconceptions

The Form I-912, or Request for Fee Waiver, can often be misunderstood. Here are seven common misconceptions about this important form.

  • Misconception 1: The I-912 form is required for all immigration applications.

    • Not everyone needs to file the I-912. It's only necessary if you believe you qualify for a fee waiver based on financial hardship or receipt of means-tested benefits.

  • Misconception 2: If I don't qualify for one basis, I can't submit the form at all.

    • You can still submit your request even if you don't meet all eligibility requirements. If you qualify under at least one basis, you may be granted a waiver.

  • Misconception 3: Supporting documentation isn’t necessary.

    • Actually, you must include documentation that supports your claims. This evidence is critical for USCIS to process your request properly.

  • Misconception 4: Once I submit the I-912 form, I don't need to do anything else.

    • This isn't true. You need to track your application and respond to any communication from USCIS regarding your waiver request.

  • Misconception 5: The form can only be submitted with new applications.

    • You can file the I-912 when applying for existing petitions or applications, not just new requests. This flexibility allows you to seek waivers on various forms.

  • Misconception 6: Filing the I-912 guarantees a fee waiver.

    • Unfortunately, approval isn’t guaranteed. USCIS makes determinations based on the documentation provided and the specific circumstances of your case.

  • Misconception 7: There’s no deadline for submitting the I-912.

    • It's essential to be aware of deadlines tied to your application or petition. Submitting your fee waiver request promptly can help avoid complications.

Key takeaways

Utilizing the Form I-912 for a fee waiver involves several important steps. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Eligibility: Ensure that you meet at least one of the criteria mentioned in Part 1 of the form. These can include receiving means-tested benefits, having a household income at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or experiencing financial hardship.
  • Documentation: Gather required supporting documentation for the basis you select. If you choose multiple bases, you must provide evidence for each one. Having clear and organized documentation increases your chances for approval.
  • Accuracy is Key: When filling out the form, provide accurate information about yourself and your financial situation. Any discrepancies might lead to a denial of your request. Double-check all sections for completeness.
  • Signature Requirement: Each individual requesting a fee waiver must sign the form. If you are filing for someone under 14, a parent or legal guardian can sign on their behalf. Omitting signatures can result in rejection of the form.
  • Additional Information: Use Part 11 to add any extra details about your circumstances. This section can be crucial for clarifying your situation to USCIS and should not be overlooked.

By following these guidelines, you can streamline the process of submitting your fee waiver request. Clarity and thoroughness are vital components in achieving a successful outcome.

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