Overview (What is G-1651 used for?)
#Form G-1651, titled Exemption for Paper Fee Payment, is a USCIS form designed for individuals who need to request an exemption from paying fees electronically. This form collects necessary information regarding the individual's circumstances that justify the exemption. It is important to provide accurate details and a valid signature to ensure proper processing.
The form requires the payer to attest that a paper fee payment is necessary due to specific exemptions. These exemptions may include lack of access to banking services, undue hardship from electronic disbursement, or situations related to national security or law enforcement. Each exemption must be clearly stated in the form.
When completing Form G-1651, make sure to review all sections carefully. The form includes a signature requirement, which is crucial for validation. Missing or incorrect signatures can lead to delays or refusals in processing.
For more information, you can access the form directly through the provided PDF link. It is advisable to keep a copy of your completed form for your records after submission.
What USCIS is really evaluating (G-1651)
#USCIS evaluates claims based on criteria such as access to banking services, undue hardship from electronic payments, and national security considerations. A common mismatch occurs when the supporting documentation does not adequately validate the exemption claimed on Form G-1651.
Context & workflow (How does G-1651 fit into the case?)
#Use the official form page to confirm the edition date, required evidence, and filing method. Verify 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-1651?)
#- Provide documentation that supports your claim of not having access to banking services.
- Include evidence of any undue hardship caused by electronic payments.
- Gather any relevant information related to national security or law enforcement activities.
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Missing signature on the form.
- Using an outdated edition of the form.
- Not including all required pages.
Substantive weaknesses
- Inconsistencies in the exemption claimed.
- Insufficient evidence to support the exemption.
- Failure to clearly state the reason for the exemption.
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for G-1651?)
#- Missing signature on Form G-1651.
- Insufficient details about the exemption claimed.
- Lack of supporting documentation.
- Inconsistencies in the exemption claimed.
Eligibility signals
#- Accurate completion of Form G-1651.
- Valid signature of the payer.
- Clear statement of the exemption being claimed.
- Supporting evidence for the exemption.
Form sections (Which sections matter most on G-1651?)
#DHS Privacy Notice
This section outlines how your information will be used and protected. Make sure to read and understand it before submitting your form.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on G-1651?)
#- Signature of Payer:
- USCIS Form G-1651
- Form G-1651 Edition 06/03/25
- I hereby attest, on my own behalf or on behalf of the benefit requestor, a paper fee payment is required because of one of the following exemptions:
- I do not have access to banking services or electronic payment systems;
- Electronic disbursement would cause me undue hardship, as contemplated in 31 C.F.R. Part 208;
- National security-or law enforcement-related activities where non-electronic transactions are necessary or desirable;
- Other circumstances as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, as reflected in regulations or other guidance.
- G-1651
- 06/03/25
What you need before you start (What should you gather before G-1651?)
#- Provide Signature of Payer
- Provide Details of the exemption being claimed
- Provide Supporting documents that validate the exemption
- Provide Personal identification information
- Provide Any relevant financial hardship documentation
- Provide Information regarding the benefit requestor if applicable
- Provide A complete copy of the current form edition
- Valid identification documents that match the form biographic data
- Provide Supporting evidence for the eligibility category you select
- Provide Payment method or fee waiver evidence if applicable
- Provide Translations for any non-English documents
- Provide Copies of prior USCIS notices or receipts tied to the case
- Provide A clear mailing address and contact information that match your records
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for G-1651?)
#- 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-1651?)
#- Review the exemptions you are claiming on the form.
- Complete all required fields accurately.
- Review the declarations before signing.
- Sign the form where indicated.
- Attach any supporting documents.
- Keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
- Submit the form to the appropriate USCIS address.
- Download the current G-1651 from the official form page.
- Save the PDF locally and open it in a compatible PDF viewer (PDFs often work best in Adobe Reader).
- 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.
Common mistakes (What errors delay G-1651 petitions?)
#- Failing to sign the form.
- Not providing sufficient details for the claimed exemption.
- Leaving required fields blank.
- Submitting without supporting documentation.
- Using an outdated edition of the form.
- Not reviewing the declarations before signing.
Examples (What does a strong G-1651 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing G-1651 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-1651. 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-1651 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about G-1651?)
#- Some believe that a signature is not necessary, but it is required for processing.
- Others think that any form of documentation is sufficient, but specific evidence is needed to support the exemption claim.
- Many assume that the form can be submitted without a review, but checking for accuracy is crucial to avoid delays.
- Some individuals think they can submit an outdated version of the form, but only the current edition will be accepted.
How this guide is built (Where this G-1651 guidance comes from)
#This guide is built from official instructions and current editions of the form. It provides non-legal advice to help you navigate the requirements effectively.
FAQs
What exemptions can I claim on Form G-1651?
You can claim exemptions such as lack of access to banking services, undue hardship from electronic payments, or situations related to national security or law enforcement. Make sure to clearly state your reason on the form.
Is a signature required on Form G-1651?
Yes, a valid signature of the payer is required for the form to be processed. Without a signature, your submission will be considered incomplete.
What should I do if I do not have supporting documents?
It is important to provide supporting documents that validate your exemption claim. Without them, your request may be denied, so gather any relevant evidence before submission.
Can I submit an outdated version of Form G-1651?
No, you must use the current edition of Form G-1651 to ensure your request is processed correctly. Always check the edition date before submitting.
How can I ensure my form is complete?
Review all sections carefully, ensure all required fields are filled, and check that you have signed the form before submission. A thorough review can prevent delays.
What happens if I forget to sign the form?
If you forget to sign, your form will be considered incomplete and may lead to delays or refusals in processing. Always double-check for your signature before sending.
Where can I find Form G-1651?
You can download Form G-1651 from the USCIS website using the provided PDF link. Make sure to use the most recent version.
What is the purpose of the DHS Privacy Notice?
The DHS Privacy Notice explains how your personal information will be used and protected when you submit Form G-1651. It's important to read this notice to understand your rights.
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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