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Overview (What is G-1041 used for?)

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Form G-1041, the Genealogy Index Search Request, is a USCIS form designed for individuals seeking to uncover historical records related to their ancestors. It allows researchers, historians, and social scientists to determine if any USCIS records exist for a specific immigrant. To obtain copies of these records, you would need to use Form G-1041A.

When submitting Form G-1041, it is crucial to provide accurate and complete information, including the immigrant's full name, date of birth, and place of birth. Additional data, such as the immigrant's arrival date and residences in the U.S., can help refine the search.

If the immigrant's date of birth is less than 100 years ago, you must include documentary proof of death. Acceptable documents include death certificates, obituaries, and religious records. Failing to provide required information may result in a rejection of your request.

For more details, refer to the official instructions available in the PDF linked on the USCIS website. Make sure to follow all guidelines to avoid delays in processing your request.

What USCIS is really evaluating (G-1041)

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USCIS evaluates the completeness of the information provided on Form G-1041, including the immigrant's full name and date of birth. A common mismatch occurs when the date of birth is not accompanied by the required proof of death if it is less than 100 years ago. Providing additional identifying information can help avoid processing delays.

Context & workflow (How does G-1041 fit into the case?)

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Use the official form page to confirm the edition date, required evidence, and filing method. Verify [fees](/en/united-states/visas/fees) before filing. Check [processing times](/en/united-states/visas/processing-times) for your category. Review [requirements](/en/united-states/visas/requirements) that apply to your status.

Who uses it

Applicants or petitioners who are required to submit this form for their case.

When it is used

  • When the official checklist or instructions list this form.
  • When submitting an initial application or petition.
  • When providing updated information requested by the agency.

Evidence strategy (What evidence does USCIS expect for G-1041?)

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  • Provide the immigrant's full name and date of birth to initiate the search.
  • Include additional identifying information such as arrival dates and residences.
  • Attach documentary proof of death if the immigrant's date of birth is less than 100 years ago.
  • Use legible photocopies of documents to support your request.
  • Ensure that all information is accurate to avoid processing delays.

Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)

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Technical rejections

  • Missing signatures on the request form, which are mandatory for processing.
  • Using an outdated version of the form, which may lead to rejection.
  • Not providing legible copies of documents, as unclear submissions can cause delays.

Substantive weaknesses

  • Inconsistencies in the immigrant's name or date of birth, which can hinder identification.
  • Failure to provide required documentary proof of death when necessary.
  • Omitting additional identifying information that could help USCIS locate the correct records.

RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for G-1041?)

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  • Incomplete immigrant information such as name or date of birth, which is essential for processing.
  • Missing documentary proof of death when required, especially if the immigrant's date of birth is less than 100 years ago.
  • Failure to sign the request form, as USCIS will not accept requests without a proper signature.
  • Not providing legible copies of documents, which can lead to delays in processing.
  • Omitting additional identifying information that could help USCIS locate the correct records.

Eligibility signals

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  • Complete the form in black ink
  • Provide the immigrant's full name and date of birth
  • Attach proof of death if the immigrant's date of birth is recent
  • Include legible copies of supporting documents
  • Ensure the request is signed correctly
  • Provide accurate contact information

Form sections (Which sections matter most on G-1041?)

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  • General Instructions

    Follow the guidelines for filling out the form and submitting evidence.

  • Processing Information

    Understand the processing steps and what to expect after submission.

  • DHS Privacy Notice

    Review how your information will be used and protected.

  • Paperwork Reduction Act

    Be aware of the estimated time required to complete the form.

  • Evidence

    Ensure all required evidence is submitted with your request.

  • How To Fill Out Form G-1041

    Instructions on how to properly fill out the form and what to include.

What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on G-1041?)

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  • Requestor's Full Name
  • Requestor's Signature
  • Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
  • Requestor's Daytime Telephone Number
  • Requestor's Mailing Address
  • Full Name of the Immigrant
  • Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
  • Country or Place of Birth
  • Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)
  • Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)
  • Is this date actual or estimated?
  • Alias names or variant spellings, if any
  • Form G-1041
  • What Is the Purpose of Form G-1041?
  • Who Should Use Form G-1041?
  • birth; or
  • When Should Form G-1041 Not Be Used?
  • NARA at www.archives.gov/research/immigration;
  • naturalization-record-deceased-immigrant;
  • how-file-foiapa-request; or
  • What Information Is Required To Begin an Index Search?
  • A. Immigrant’s full name (last, first, and middle);
  • B. Alias names or variant spellings, if any;

What you need before you start (What should you gather before G-1041?)

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  • Provide Country or place of birth
  • Provide Documentary proof of death if the date of birth is less than 100 years ago
  • Provide Legible photocopies of required documents
  • Provide Signature on the request form
  • Provide Contact information including phone number and email address
  • Provide Mailing address including street number and postal code
  • Provide Accurate identity details that match your supporting documents
  • Provide Documents that support the information you enter
  • Provide Official instructions for signature and submission rules
  • Provide use Form G-1041 to request a search of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) historical
  • Provide Who Should Use Form G-1041?
  • Provide When Should Form G-1041 Not Be Used?
  • Provide 3. Certification of Nonexistence of a Naturalization Record. All these requests must be submitted to the USCIS Records
  • Provide 4. Information related to living persons. This information must be requested from the Freedom of Information Act
  • Provide What Information Is Required To Begin an Index Search?

Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for G-1041?)

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  • Evidence of identity (passport, government ID, or USCIS-issued document).
  • Evidence of current immigration status or admission/parole.
  • Evidence that supports the eligibility category selected.
  • Evidence of any required family relationship or sponsorship.

Checklist (What are the key steps before filing G-1041?)

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  • Use the latest version of Adobe Reader to fill out the form
  • Review the declarations before signing
  • Ensure all required fields are completed
  • Attach documentary proof of death if applicable
  • Submit legible photocopies of documents
  • Do not include original documents unless requested
  • Check for proper signatures; stamped or typewritten names are not accepted
  • Include additional sheets if more space is needed
  • Download the current G-1041 from the official form page.
  • Save the PDF locally and open it in Adobe Acrobat Reader so form features work correctly.
  • Follow the form’s signature instructions (some PDFs require printing and hand-signing).
  • Complete every required section and review for consistency.
  • Follow the signature and submission instructions exactly.
  • Keep copies of everything you submit.

Fees (verify before filing)

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Fees change over time and can vary by category. Verify the latest schedule before filing.

USCIS filing fees

Common mistakes (What errors delay G-1041 petitions?)

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  • Failing to provide the immigrant's full name
  • Not including documentary proof of death when required
  • Submitting original documents instead of photocopies
  • Omitting required signatures
  • Using a stamped signature instead of a handwritten one
  • Not indicating if the date of birth is actual or estimated

Examples (What does a strong G-1041 submission look like?)

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  • Situation: An applicant is preparing G-1041 and must include all required evidence. Task: They submit a complete packet within a 30-day preparation window. Action: They compile identity records, eligibility evidence, and the filing fee before submitting. Result: The petition is accepted without a request for missing items.
  • Situation: A filer is close to a deadline for G-1041. Task: They submit within the required 90-day timeline. Action: They finalize the packet and file within the stated window. Result: The case proceeds without a late-filing issue.
  • Situation: A petitioner must reference a receipt number. Task: They match the receipt number to the underlying petition. Action: They include the exact receipt number on G-1041 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.

Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about G-1041?)

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  • You can submit original documents with your request; you must only submit copies. USCIS will not return original documents.
  • Any name variation will be accepted without additional information; you need to provide aliases to help identify the correct immigrant.
  • You do not need to provide proof of death if the date of birth is over 100 years ago; proof is required if the date of birth is less than 100 years ago.
  • Submitting incomplete information will not affect your request; USCIS requires complete details to process your request.
  • You can use a typewritten name instead of a signature; USCIS specifically requires a handwritten signature.

How this guide is built (Where this G-1041 guidance comes from)

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This guide is based on the official instructions for Form G-1041, ensuring you have the most accurate and current information. It is designed to help you navigate the requirements and avoid common pitfalls. Always refer to the official USCIS website for the latest updates.

FAQs

What documents do I need to submit with Form G-1041?

You need to submit copies of documents that prove the immigrant's death if their date of birth is less than 100 years ago. Acceptable documents include death certificates, obituaries, and religious records. Make sure not to include original documents, as USCIS will not return them.

How do I know if my request will be processed?

USCIS will check your request for completeness. If any required information is missing, they may return your request for correction. It's important to provide all necessary details to avoid delays.

Can I use a stamped signature on Form G-1041?

No, USCIS requires a handwritten signature. Stamped or typewritten names will not be accepted. Make sure to sign the request form properly to avoid rejection.

What if I provide incorrect information on the form?

Providing incorrect information may lead to a rejection of your request. It's important to double-check all details before submission to ensure accuracy. USCIS relies on the information you provide to process your request.

Where can I find the latest version of Form G-1041?

You can download the latest version of Form G-1041 from the USCIS website. Make sure to use the most current edition to avoid issues with your request. Using an outdated form may result in processing delays.

Important

VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.

Next steps

Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.

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