Form I-290B Guide

USCIS evaluates the validity of signatures and the completeness of submitted evidence for Form I-290B. A common mismatch occurs when the form is not signed correctly, leading to rejection. Make sure to follow all instructions carefully to avoid issues.

• Include all evidence listed in the instructions to support your appeal or motion.
• Provide a clear statement regarding the basis for your appeal or motion.
• Submit any additional evidence or briefs concurrently with your motion if applicable.
• Ensure that translations are certified and accurate if submitting foreign documents.

• Missing required signatures on the form.
• Incomplete or missing evidence as specified in the instructions.
• Failure to submit the form within the specified time frame, such as 15 or 30 calendar days.

• Valid signature from the applicant or authorized representative.
• Filing fee as specified in Form G-1055.
• All required evidence and supporting documents.
• Timely filing within 15-30 calendar days.
• Clear indication of appeal or motion type.
• Legible photocopies of documents unless originals are requested.

• General Instructions

  This section provides essential guidelines on completing the form and submitting it correctly.

• Specific Instructions

  Detailed instructions on how to fill out each part of the form, including what information is required.

• DO NOT FILE FORM I-290B DIRECTLY WITH THE AAO.

  Important instructions on where to file your appeal or motion.

• Address Change

  Instructions on how to notify USCIS of any address changes.

• Processing Information

  Information on how USCIS processes your appeal or motion.

• DHS Privacy Notice

  Details on how your information will be used and protected.

• Full Name
• Date of Birth
• Business or Organization Name (if applicable)
• Alien Registration Number (A-Number, if any)
• USCIS Online Account Number
• Mailing Address (Safe or Alternate Address, if Applicable)
• Immigration Form That is the Subject of This Appeal or Motion
• Receipt Number for the Application, Petition, or Other Request
• Requested Immigrant or Nonimmigrant Classification
• Date of the Unfavorable Decision
• Office That Issued the Unfavorable Decision
• What Is the Purpose of Form I-290B?
• of School for Attendance by Nonimmigrant Student, filed with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
• Who May Not File Form I-290B?
• “specified offense against a minor.”
• How to Complete Form I-290B
• Information or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number)

• 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.

• Not signing the form or using a stamped signature.
• Filing late outside the 15-30 day window.
• Failing to submit required evidence or supporting documents.
• Using a typewritten name instead of a handwritten signature.
• Not indicating whether the submission is an appeal or a motion.
• Submitting original documents when not required.

• Situation: An applicant is preparing I-290B 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 I-290B. 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 I-290B and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.

• You cannot file an appeal if you are the beneficiary of a petition unless permitted by law, such as in cases of employment-based immigrant visa petitions.
• A motion must include supporting evidence at the time of filing, unlike an appeal where you may submit additional evidence later.
• You must file a separate Form I-290B for each application or petition you want to appeal; multiple appeals cannot be combined on one form.
• Filing an appeal late will result in rejection, but the office may consider it for a motion to reopen if the delay was reasonable and beyond your control.

This guide is built from the official instructions for Form I-290B, ensuring that you have the most current and accurate information. It provides non-legal advice to help you navigate the filing process effectively.

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