Overview (What is G-639 used for?)
#G-639 is a form used to request records through the Freedom of Information Act or Privacy Act. It collects necessary information regarding identity and eligibility for the request. Completing this form accurately is crucial for obtaining the desired records. Make sure to follow the guidelines closely to avoid delays in processing.
What USCIS is really evaluating (G-639)
#USCIS evaluates whether your request clearly identifies the records sought, whether your identity can be verified, and whether any FOIA exemptions apply. A common issue is providing an unclear or overly broad description of the records requested.
Context & workflow (How does G-639 fit into the case?)
#You can submit this request online via the USCIS FOIA portal or by mailing the completed form. There is no filing fee for Form G-639. Check processing times for your request type. Review the documents checklist for identity verification requirements.
Who uses it
Individuals requesting copies of their own immigration records, or authorized representatives requesting records on behalf of another person.
When it is used
- When you need copies of your own immigration records from USCIS.
- When an attorney or authorized representative needs to request records on your behalf.
- When you need documentation for legal proceedings or personal records.
Evidence strategy (What evidence does USCIS expect for G-639?)
#- Use a government-issued ID to prove your identity.
- Provide specific details about the records to support your request.
- Include any previous correspondence with USCIS to establish context.
- Include relevant identifiers (A-Number, receipt numbers) if known.
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Missing signature on the form can lead to rejection.
- Using an incorrect edition of the form may result in processing delays.
- Incomplete pages can cause USCIS to request additional information, slowing down the process.
Substantive weaknesses
- Vague descriptions of requested records can lead to requests for clarification.
- Inconsistent contact information can hinder communication about your request.
- Not providing proof of identity or relationship when required can result in denial of the request.
Common reasons USCIS requests clarification (Why might USCIS request more information for G-639?)
#- Request description is too broad or unclear to locate specific records.
- Missing or insufficient proof of identity.
- Missing signature on the request form.
- Missing consent or authorization when requesting records for another person.
- Incomplete contact information for response delivery.
Request completeness checklist
#- Completed Form G-639 with all required fields.
- Valid proof of identity attached.
- Clear and specific description of records sought.
- Signature and date on the request.
- Contact information for response delivery.
- Consent documentation if requesting for another person.
Form sections (Which sections matter most on G-639?)
#Requester Information
Provide your full name, address, and contact details. This information is crucial for USCIS to process your request and deliver the response.
Records Requested
Clearly describe the records you are seeking. Be as specific as possible to help USCIS locate the information.
Context (optional)
You may include additional context to help USCIS locate records, but a specific purpose is not required for FOIA requests.
Proof of Identity
Include a copy of a government-issued ID to verify your identity. This is a required element of your request.
Signature
Sign the form to certify that the information provided is true and correct. An unsigned form will not be processed.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on G-639?)
#- Your full name and any prior names used.
- Your current mailing address and contact information.
- Description of the records you are requesting.
- Relevant identifiers (A-Number, receipt numbers, case numbers) if known.
- Your date of birth and place of birth.
- Your signature and date of the request.
- Consent or authorization details if requesting records for another person.
What you need before you start (What should you gather before G-639?)
#- Proof of identity (government-issued ID such as passport, driver's license, or state ID).
- A signed request (signature required on the form).
- A clear and specific description of the records you are requesting.
- Relevant identifiers if known (A-Number, receipt numbers, case numbers).
- Proof of consent or authorization if requesting records for another person.
- Your current mailing address and contact information.
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for G-639?)
#- Proof of identity (government-issued ID).
- Signed request form.
- Clear description of the records requested.
- Relevant identifiers (A-Number, receipt numbers, case numbers) if known.
- Proof of consent or authorization if requesting records for another person.
Checklist (What are the key steps before filing G-639?)
#- Review the form for completeness before submission
- Make sure all required fields are filled out
- Review the declarations before signing
- Include any applicable fees with your request
- Check that your contact information is current
- Ensure your description of the records is clear and specific
- Double-check for any required attachments
- Keep a copy of your submitted form for your records
- Download the current G-639 from the official form page.
- Open the PDF in Adobe Acrobat Reader if the form has validation fields.
- Complete every required section and review for consistency.
- Follow the signature and submission instructions exactly.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
Fees
#There is no filing fee for Form G-639. USCIS does not charge a fee to submit a Freedom of Information Act or Privacy Act request.
Common mistakes (What errors delay G-639 petitions?)
#- Leaving required fields blank.
- Not providing sufficient detail in the records description.
- Failing to sign and date the form.
- Submitting without proof of identity.
- Missing consent documentation when requesting for another person.
- Providing outdated contact information.
Examples (What does a strong G-639 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An individual needs copies of their immigration file. Task: Submit a complete FOIA request. Action: They complete Form G-639 with proof of identity and a clear description of the records needed. Result: USCIS processes the request without delay.
- Situation: An attorney needs to obtain a client's immigration records. Task: Submit a request with proper authorization. Action: They file Form G-639 with the client's signed consent and specific record identifiers. Result: The records are released to the authorized representative.
- Situation: A person cannot locate prior USCIS receipts. Task: Request copies of case history. Action: They submit Form G-639 with their A-Number and approximate filing dates. Result: USCIS locates and provides the requested records.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about G-639?)
#- Believing that mailing the paper form is the only way to submit a request. USCIS also offers an online FOIA request portal.
- Assuming that all records are automatically provided without a detailed request.
- Thinking that a signature is not necessary for the form to be valid.
- Assuming that any form of identification is acceptable without considering the clarity of identity.
- Underestimating the importance of including specific details in the records request.
- Assuming that processing times are the same for all requests, regardless of complexity.
How this guide is built (Where this G-639 guidance comes from)
#This guide is based on official USCIS FOIA instructions. It provides general information to help you complete your records request. There is no filing fee for FOIA or Privacy Act requests.
FAQs
Is there a fee for submitting Form G-639?
There is no filing fee for Form G-639. USCIS does not charge a fee to submit a Freedom of Information Act or Privacy Act request.
How long does it take to process a FOIA request?
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the request, the volume of records sought, and agency workload. USCIS processes requests in the order received.
Can I request records for someone else?
Yes, but you must include written consent from that person authorizing the release of their records to you. Attorneys and legal representatives must provide proof of authorization.
What information should I include in my request description?
Be as specific as possible. Include relevant dates, case types, receipt numbers, or A-Numbers if known. Vague requests may result in clarification requests or partial responses.
What happens if my request is denied?
If your request is denied in whole or in part, USCIS will explain which FOIA exemptions apply. You have the right to appeal the decision following the instructions in the denial letter.
Can I submit Form G-639 online?
Yes, USCIS offers an online FOIA request portal as an alternative to mailing the paper form. The online portal may provide faster processing for some requests.
What proof of identity is required?
You must provide a copy of a government-issued photo ID such as a passport, driver's license, or state ID. The name on the ID must match the name on your request.
Do I need a signature on the form?
Yes, your signature is required to authorize the release of records. USCIS accepts original signatures or photocopied, faxed, or scanned copies of your handwritten signature.
What are the signature requirements for Form G-639?
Signatures must be original handwritten signatures. USCIS accepts photocopied, faxed, or scanned copies of the original handwritten signature for filing.
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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