Overview (What is G-1566 used for?)
#Form G-1566, also known as the Request for Certificate of Non-Existence, is utilized to determine if specific immigration records exist for the subject listed on the form. A Certificate of Non-Existence certifies that USCIS did not find the requested records. If records are found, a Certificate will not be issued, but the requestor will receive a response regarding the findings.
This form is applicable for individuals seeking records for various purposes, including legal matters. It is important to provide accurate information and supporting documents to facilitate the request process.
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 or denials in processing your request.
What USCIS is really evaluating (G-1566)
#USCIS evaluates the completeness of the request, the validity of signatures, and the accuracy of supporting documents. A common mismatch occurs when the proof of death is not provided for subjects born less than 100 years ago.
Context & workflow (How does G-1566 fit into the case?)
#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-1566?)
#- Gather proof of death if the subject is deceased and born less than 100 years ago.
- Collect marriage certificates if applicable to support the request.
- Ensure all documents are legible and properly certified if translations are needed.
- Review the subject's information for accuracy to avoid mismatches.
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Missing signature on the form, which will result in rejection.
- Using an outdated version of the form, which can lead to processing issues.
- Not including a self-addressed, prepaid return envelope, which is necessary for returning the certificate.
Substantive weaknesses
- Inconsistencies in the subject's information, such as differing names or dates.
- Insufficient evidence to support the request, which can lead to delays.
- Failure to provide proof of death when required, especially for subjects born less than 100 years ago.
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for G-1566?)
#- Missing required supporting documents, such as proof of death or marriage certificates.
- Invalid signature on the form, which can lead to rejection of the request.
- Incomplete information about the subject of record, such as missing dates of birth or names.
Eligibility signals
#- Complete all sections of the form accurately.
- Provide proof of death if applicable.
- Include a marriage certificate if the subject married a foreign national between 1907-1922.
- Submit legible photocopies of requested documents.
- Ensure the form is signed correctly.
Form sections (Which sections matter most on G-1566?)
#General Instructions
Follow the guidelines for completing the form and submitting supporting documents.
Processing Information
Understand the processing timeline and what to expect after submission.
DHS Privacy Notice
Review how your information will be used and protected.
Mailing Address
Provide your complete mailing address for correspondence.
Daytime Telephone Number
Include a daytime phone number for any follow-up inquiries.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on G-1566?)
#- Part 1. Certificate Request
- Certificate of Non-Existence of Naturalization
- Other (provide an explanation about the type of records about which you seek a Certificate of Non-Existence):
- Number of Certificates Requested:
- Part 2. Information About Subject of Record
- Family Name (Last Name)
- Given Name (First Name)
- Middle Name (if applicable)
- Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
- Country of Birth
- Part 3. Requestor Information
- Requestor's Full Name
- Email Address:
- Mailing Address
- Daytime Telephone Number
- What Is the Purpose of Form G-1566?
- Administration (NARA) Record Group 21, at www.archives.gov/research/guide-fed-records/groups/021.html or
- Who Should Use Form G-1566?
- more;
- response to the requestor;
- When Should Form G-1566 Not Be Used?
- Form G-1566
- data, communications, and other records. This information must be requested from the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
- How To Complete Form G-1566
What you need before you start (What should you gather before G-1566?)
#- Provide If the subject of record is deceased and born less than 100 years ago, provide an obituary, death certificate, or other proof of death
- Provide If the subject of record was a U.S. citizen who married a foreign national between 1907-1922, include a marriage certificate or proof of marriage
- Provide Legible photocopies of all requested documents unless original documents are specifically required
- Provide A valid signature on the form; stamped or typewritten names are not accepted
- Provide A self-addressed, prepaid return envelope for the response
- Provide Translations for any documents in a foreign language, including a signed certification from the translator
- 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 Who Should Use Form G-1566?
- Provide When Should Form G-1566 Not Be Used?
- Provide A search of USCIS historical databases or to obtain copies of USCIS historical records. These requests must be
- Provide We provide free forms through the USCIS website. To view, print, or complete our forms, you should use the latest
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for G-1566?)
#- 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-1566?)
#- Use the latest version of Adobe Reader to complete the form.
- Review the declarations before signing.
- Ensure the form is signed in written ink; photocopies of signatures are acceptable.
- Include a self-addressed, prepaid return envelope with your submission.
- Submit legible photocopies of all documents unless originals are requested.
- Check for completeness and accuracy of all fields before submission.
- Download the current G-1566 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)
#Fees change over time and can vary by category. Verify the latest schedule before filing.
USCIS filing feesCommon mistakes (What errors delay G-1566 petitions?)
#- Submitting original documents when not required.
- Failing to provide a valid signature.
- Omitting required supporting documents.
- Not using legible photocopies.
- Incorrectly filling out the subject of record's information.
- Neglecting to include a self-addressed, prepaid return envelope.
Examples (What does a strong G-1566 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing G-1566 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-1566. 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-1566 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about G-1566?)
#- A stamped signature is acceptable; it is not. USCIS requires a handwritten signature on the form.
- Proof of death is always required; it is not if the subject was born 100 years ago or more. In such cases, proof of death is not necessary.
- You can submit original documents anytime; you should only submit originals if specifically requested. Submitting originals when not required can lead to their destruction.
- All documents must be originals; this is incorrect. Legible photocopies are acceptable unless the instructions specify otherwise.
How this guide is built (Where this G-1566 guidance comes from)
#This guide is based on the official instructions for Form G-1566, ensuring you have the most current and accurate information. It is designed to help you navigate the requirements without legal jargon.
FAQs
What is G-1566 used for?
G-1566 is used to request a specific immigration benefit based on the eligibility category you select. The form must align with your supporting evidence and any underlying petition.
What happens if I submit an incomplete packet?
USCIS may reject the filing or issue a request for evidence if required documents are missing. Use the official checklist to ensure each required item is included before submission.
Do I need to submit original documents?
Most filings require legible copies unless the instructions specifically request originals. Always follow the official instructions for each document type.
How do I verify I am using the correct edition of the form?
Check the form edition date on the USCIS form page and compare it to your PDF. Submitting an outdated edition can lead to rejection.
Do I need translations for non-English documents?
Yes, USCIS typically requires certified translations for documents not in English. Include translations that meet USCIS requirements.
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.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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