Overview (What is I-508 used for?)
#Form I-508, also known as the Request for Waiver of Certain Rights, Privileges, Exemptions and Immunities, is used by lawful permanent residents or applicants for lawful permanent residence in the United States. This form is required for those whose occupational status or that of their family members qualifies them for nonimmigrant status under specific sections of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
The purpose of this form is to waive diplomatic rights, privileges, exemptions, and immunities that may be granted under any law or Executive Order. By submitting this form, applicants acknowledge that they will be ineligible for any diplomatic rights previously held by their sending country.
To access the form, download it from the USCIS website. Make sure to use the latest version of Adobe Reader to complete the form accurately. For further assistance, you can schedule an appointment through the USCIS website.
For more details on filing procedures and requirements, refer to the specific sections outlined in the form instructions.
What USCIS is really evaluating (I-508)
#USCIS evaluates whether the applicant has waived diplomatic rights and privileges as required by the form. Common mismatches include missing signatures or incomplete supporting documentation. It's important to provide all required evidence to avoid delays.
Context & workflow (How does I-508 fit into the case?)
#The form is usually filed alongside supporting evidence listed in the instructions. Verify [fees](/en/united-states/visas/fees) before filing. Check [processing times](/en/united-states/visas/processing-times) for your category. Review requirements that apply to your status.
Who uses it
Applicants requesting a waiver as part of 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 I-508?)
#- Submit all evidence listed in the specific instructions.
- Include translations for any documents not in English.
- Ensure that all photocopies are clear and legible.
- Provide a certification from the translator for English translations.
- Attach any additional sheets if more space is needed for answers.
- Review the requirements for supporting documents carefully.
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Ensure the form is signed before submission.
- Use the correct edition of the form.
- Check that all pages of the form are included.
Substantive weaknesses
- Avoid inconsistencies in the information provided.
- Make sure all required evidence is submitted.
- Double-check that translations are complete and accurate.
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for I-508?)
#- Missing required supporting documents.
- Incomplete or inaccurate information on the form.
- Failure to provide translations for foreign language documents.
- Not signing the form before submission.
- Submitting documents that are not legible.
Eligibility signals
#- Complete Form I-508 accurately.
- Provide legible photocopies of required documents.
- Include English translations for foreign language documents.
- Sign the form with a handwritten signature.
- Submit payment for the filing fee as per Form G-1055.
- Provide contact information including phone number and email.
- Include all evidence supporting the waiver request.
- Use the latest version of Adobe Reader for form completion.
Form sections (Which sections matter most on I-508?)
#Where To File
Check the USCIS website for the most current filing address.
Filing Fee
Refer to Form G-1055 for specific fee information related to this form.
Supporting Documents
Gather all evidence and documentation as specified in the instructions.
Executing This Waiver Form
Make sure to sign and date the waiver form before submission.
Additional Information
Use Part 6 for any extra information needed beyond the form fields.
DHS Privacy Notice
Understand how your information will be used and shared by DHS.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on I-508?)
#- Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)
- U.S. State Department-Issued Personal Identification Number (PID)
- Given Name (First Name)
- Family Name (Last Name)
- Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
- Physical Address
- Mailing Address
- Employment Information
- Name of Mission or Organization
- In Care Of Name
- Province
- Postal Code
- ZIP Code
- Person Executing this Waiver Form's Daytime Telephone Number
- Person Executing this Waiver Form's Email Address (if any)
- Privileges, Exemptions, and Immunities
- What Is the Purpose of Form I-508?
- (a) Government official,
- (b) Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office employee,
- (c) International organization representative or employee, respectively; or
- Note Regarding former USCIS Form I-508F
- Completing the Form
- Information or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
- Interpreter’s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
What you need before you start (What should you gather before I-508?)
#- Provide Legible photocopies of all required documents
- Provide Full English translations for any documents in a foreign language
- Provide Certification from the translator for English translations
- Provide Signature of the person executing the waiver form
- Evidence supporting the waiver request as outlined in the instructions
- 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 Form I-508F is no longer required to be submitted by French nationals
- Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence and supporting documentation listed in the specific
- Provide Translations. If you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit a full English
- Provide Copies. You should submit legible photocopies of documents requested, unless the instructions specifically state that
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for I-508?)
#- 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.
- Evidence supporting the waiver ground and hardship criteria.
Checklist (What are the key steps before filing I-508?)
#- Download the latest version of Form I-508 from the USCIS website.
- Use Adobe Reader to complete the form.
- Type or print legibly in black ink.
- Sign the form; do not use a stamped or typewritten name.
- Include all required supporting documents.
- Submit legible photocopies unless original documents are specifically requested.
- Provide full English translations for any foreign language documents.
- Review the declarations before signing.
- Ensure all fields are filled out accurately and completely.
- Check for any additional information needed in Part 6.
- Download the current I-508 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 I-508 petitions?)
#- Not signing the form or using a stamped signature.
- Failing to provide required supporting documents.
- Submitting documents in a foreign language without translations.
- Leaving fields blank or marking them as N/A when not directed.
- Not using the latest version of the form.
- Providing photocopies instead of original documents when required.
Examples (What does a strong I-508 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing I-508 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-508. 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-508 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about I-508?)
#- All documents must be originals; photocopies are acceptable unless specified otherwise.
- A typed name can replace a signature; only handwritten signatures are valid.
- Translations are optional; they are required for any documents not in English.
- You can submit the form without all supporting documents; all required evidence must be included.
- The filing fee is the same for everyone; it may vary based on specific circumstances.
How this guide is built (Where this I-508 guidance comes from)
#This guide is based on the latest official instructions for Form I-508. It includes current details and requirements to help you complete your application accurately. Always refer to the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information.
FAQs
What is I-508 used for?
I-508 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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