Overview (What is G-884 used for?)
#Form G-884, Request for the Return of Original Documents, is a USCIS form designed for individuals seeking the return of original documents submitted for immigration or citizenship benefits. You should use this form if you submitted original documents that USCIS did not request and you want them returned.
To successfully file Form G-884, you must provide a completed and signed form along with supporting documentation. It's important to refer to the specific instructions to determine what documents are necessary for your request.
This form is divided into several parts, each requiring specific information about you and the documents you wish to retrieve. Make sure to follow the guidelines closely to avoid delays in processing your request.
For detailed instructions, you can access the form directly [here](https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/g-884.pdf).
What USCIS is really evaluating (G-884)
#USCIS evaluates the completeness of the request, the validity of the signatures, and the adequacy of the identification provided. A common mismatch occurs when the identification does not meet the specified requirements, leading to potential delays in processing the request.
Context & workflow (How does G-884 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-884?)
#- Provide clear identification documents to verify your identity.
- Include any relevant proof of relationship if requesting documents from another person's file.
- Ensure all translations are certified and include the translator's contact information.
- Submit photocopies of all documents to avoid the risk of losing originals.
- Use specific descriptions for the documents you are requesting to assist USCIS in locating them.
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Ensure all required signatures are present.
- Use the correct edition of the form.
- Check that all pages are included.
Substantive weaknesses
- Avoid inconsistencies in the information provided.
- Make sure to provide sufficient evidence to support your request.
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for G-884?)
#- Missing required fields in the form.
- Failure to provide adequate identification.
- Not submitting supporting documents as specified.
Eligibility signals
#- You must have a United States address to file this request.
- Form G-884 must be notarized if submitted by mail.
- If submitting in person, notarization is not required.
- You need to provide a valid Alien Registration Number if applicable.
- Include a receipt number if available.
Form sections (Which sections matter most on G-884?)
#General Instructions
This section provides an overview of the requirements for completing the form and what to include.
Specific Instructions
Detailed guidance on how to fill out each part of the form, including what information is needed.
Address Change
Instructions for notifying USCIS of any address changes, which must be done within 10 days.
Processing Information
Information on what happens after you submit your request and how USCIS processes it.
DHS Privacy Notice
Details on how your personal information will be used and protected.
Paperwork Reduction Act
Information about the legal requirements for collecting information and the burden on respondents.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on G-884?)
#- Part 2. Data for Identification of Personal Record
- Your Full Name
- Mailing Address
- Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)
- USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
- City/Town/Village of Birth
- Country of Birth
- Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
- Specific information about the desired documents
- Receipt Number (if any)
- Subject’s Full Name
- Form G-884
- What Is the Purpose of Form G-884?
- 1. A completed and signed Form G-884; and
- When Should I Use Form G-884?
- How To Fill Out Form G-884
- Information or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
- May 1, 1979, should be written 05/01/1979.)
- Public.)
- locate the relating record.)
What you need before you start (What should you gather before G-884?)
#- Two forms of identification, such as a Driver’s license or Permanent Resident Card
- Proof of relationship if requesting documents from another person's USCIS file
- Evidence of power of attorney if the subject is deceased or incapacitated
- Provide Legible photocopies of any supporting documents
- Provide Full English translations for any documents in a foreign language
- 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 When Should I Use Form G-884?
- Provide Providing the information requested on Form G-884 and submitting the required supporting documents will assist USCIS
- valid for filing purposes. The photocopy, fax, or scan must be of the original document containing the handwritten, ink
- Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence and supporting documents listed in the Specific
- Provide Copies. You should submit legible photocopies of any documents you are submitting in support of this request
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for G-884?)
#- 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-884?)
#- Download the latest version of Adobe Reader to fill out the form.
- Review the declarations before signing the form.
- Make sure all signatures are handwritten; stamped or typewritten names are not acceptable.
- Submit legible photocopies of all documents.
- Include proof of relationship if requesting documents from another person’s file.
- Check that you have provided all required information in each section of the form.
- Download the current G-884 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-884 petitions?)
#- Not signing the form where required.
- Submitting original documents when not requested.
- Failing to provide two forms of identification.
- Leaving fields blank that require a response.
- Not including translations for documents in a foreign language.
- Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a handwritten signature.
Examples (What does a strong G-884 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing G-884 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-884. 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-884 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about G-884?)
#- You do not need to file Form G-884 if USCIS requested the original documents.
- Notarization is only required if submitting the form by mail, not in person.
- You must provide two forms of identification, even if you have an A-Number.
How this guide is built (Where this G-884 guidance comes from)
#This guide is built from the official instructions for Form G-884, ensuring that you have the most accurate and current information. It provides non-legal advice to help you navigate the process effectively.
FAQs
What is G-884 used for?
G-884 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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