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INS PROCESSING TIPS
1. TRANSLATION OF DOCUMENTS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Any document containing a language other than English must be submitted with a full English language translation. The translator must certify that the translation is complete and accurate and that he or she is competent to translate. A photocopy of the document in the foreign language must be attached to the English language translation.
The translator must certify that the translation is accurate. A suggested format is:
Certification by Translator
I, ___________ , certify that I am fluent in the English and Japanese languages, and that the above/attached document is an accurate translation of the document attached entitled.
- Date:
- Signature:
- Typed name:
- Typed address:
- Signature:
2. DO I NEED TO SUBMIT ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS?
Fortunately, the INS no longer routinely requires submission of original documents or "certified copies." Instead, ordinary legible photocopies of such documents (including naturalization certificates and alien registration cards) will be acceptable for initial filing. At the discretion of the INS adjudicator, original documents may still be required in individual cases.
3. PROOF OF LAWFUL PERMANENT RESIDENT STATUS
When submitting proof of lawful permanent resident status, submit a
copy of the front and back of your green card. If you do not have green
card, submit copies of the pages of your passport containing an admission
stamp showing your entry as a lawful permanent resident, as well as
the pages identifying the passport as yours.
4. BIRTH CERTIFICATES
Birth certificates do not expire. It does not need to be issued within
the last six months.
5. PHOTOCOPIES
Make photocopies of everything submitted to the government for your
own records. This will save you time in case your file is lost.
6. HOW TO MAIL
It is a good idea to mail documents to the government by either
using an overnight courier service or by certified mail, return receipt.
This is important if you need to prove that something was actually mailed
and received by the INS.
For example, if you find out that the INS lost your naturalization application after you waited many months, if you can prove that you submitted one earlier, the government will try to put you back in place where you should be had your application not been lost. You will need proof of mailing and a canceled check or proof of a cashed money order. If you cannot prove an earlier filing, you will be forced to wait again from the beginning.
RELATED LIGHTHOUSE ARTICLES
(#99-03/16/1999)
How long does it take?
(#102-05/01/1999)
Up-to-date US Immigration Information on the Internet
(#118-01/01/2000)
Adjustment of Status Update