Overview (What is I-694 used for?)
#Form I-694, the Notice of Appeal of Decision Under Sections 210 or 245A of the Immigration and Nationality Act, is a document submitted to notify USCIS of an appeal against a denied application for permanent or temporary residence. It is crucial to complete this form accurately to ensure your appeal is considered. The form requires detailed personal information, including your full legal name and any other names used, as well as the reason for your appeal.
When completing Form I-694, you must provide all necessary evidence and supporting documentation as specified in the instructions. This includes submitting a valid signature, which cannot be a stamped or typewritten name. If you are under 14 years old, a parent or legal guardian may sign on your behalf.
You must file Form I-694 with the USCIS office that issued the denial, and it must be received within 30 calendar days of the denial notice. Be aware that the 30-day period starts three days after the notice is mailed. Extensions are not granted, and it is important to avoid submitting your appeal to the wrong office.
For additional assistance, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center or visit their website for more information on the filing process and requirements.
What USCIS is really evaluating (I-694)
#USCIS evaluates the completeness of the appeal, the validity of the signature, and the inclusion of required evidence. A common mismatch occurs when the signature is not valid, such as using a stamped name instead of a handwritten one. Ensuring all documentation is accurate and submitted on time is crucial for the success of Form I-694.
Context & workflow (How does I-694 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 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 I-694?)
#- Include all evidence listed in the instructions to support your appeal.
- Provide clear and legible photocopies of all documents.
- Ensure translations are accurate and certified by the translator.
- Attach any additional information in Part 7 if necessary.
- Consider submitting a brief to further support your appeal.
- Keep a copy of all submitted documents for your records.
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Check for missing signatures on the form.
- Ensure you are using the correct edition of the form.
- Verify that all pages of the form are included.
Substantive weaknesses
- Avoid inconsistencies in the information provided.
- Ensure all required evidence is included to support your appeal.
- Confirm that translations are provided for any documents in a foreign language.
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for I-694?)
#- Missing required signatures.
- Incomplete or inaccurate information.
- Failure to provide necessary evidence.
- Not submitting the correct filing fee.
- Submitting documents in a foreign language without translations.
Eligibility signals
#- Valid signature from the appellant or authorized representative.
- Filing fee as specified in Form G-1055.
- All evidence and supporting documentation as listed in the instructions.
- Legible photocopies of requested documents.
- Full English translations for any documents in a foreign language.
- Contact information for any interpreter or preparer involved.
Form sections (Which sections matter most on I-694?)
#General Instructions
Follow the guidelines for completing the form, including signature requirements and filing procedures.
Section 210 or 245A of the Immigration and Nationality Act
Provide details relevant to your appeal under these specific sections.
Oral Arguments
If you wish to present oral arguments, include a request letter with your appeal.
Address Change
Notify USCIS of any address changes within 10 days if you are not a U.S. citizen.
Processing Information
Understand the processing steps and requirements for your appeal.
DHS Privacy Notice
Review how your information will be used and protected during the appeal process.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on I-694?)
#- Family Name (Last Name)
- Given Name (First Name)
- Middle Name
- Full Legal Name
- Any Other Names Used
- Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)
- USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
- Your appeal is based on an application for which of the following?
- Date of Decision (mm/dd/yyyy)
- Receipt Number (if any)
- Is your written brief attached?
- Appellant's Signature
- Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)
- Appellant's Contact Information
- What Is the Purpose of Form I-694?
- How To Complete Form I-694
- Information or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
- Briefs
- Where To File?
- Penalties
- USCIS-007 - Benefits Information System] and the published privacy impact assessment [DHS/USCIS/PIA-016(a)
What you need before you start (What should you gather before I-694?)
#- Provide A valid signature on the form
- Evidence supporting your appeal
- Provide Legible photocopies of requested documents
- Provide Full English translations for any foreign language documents
- Provide Appellant's daytime and mobile telephone numbers
- Provide Any additional information in Part 7 if needed
- 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 We provide free forms through the USCIS website. To view, print, or complete our forms, you should use the latest
- Provide as valid for filing purposes. The photocopy, fax, or scan must be of the original document containing the handwritten ink
- Evidence. When you file your form, you must submit all evidence and supporting documentation listed in these
- Provide Translations. If you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit a full English
- Provide translation. The translator must sign a certification that the English language translation is complete and accurate, and that
- Provide you in completing the form, select the box indicating that you used a preparer. Further, you must sign and date your
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for I-694?)
#- 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 I-694?)
#- Download the latest version of Form I-694 from the USCIS website.
- Use Adobe Reader to complete the form.
- Type or print legibly in black ink.
- Review the declarations before signing.
- Ensure the form is signed by the appellant or authorized signatory.
- Include the correct filing fee as indicated in Form G-1055.
- Submit all required evidence and supporting documentation.
- Attach a full English translation for any foreign language documents.
- File the form with the correct USCIS office as indicated on the Notice of Denial.
- Ensure the form is submitted within the 30-day deadline.
- Download the current I-694 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-694 petitions?)
#- Submitting a form without a valid signature.
- Filing the appeal at the wrong USCIS office.
- Missing the 30-day deadline for submission.
- Not including required evidence or documentation.
- Failing to provide translations for foreign language documents.
- Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a handwritten signature.
Examples (What does a strong I-694 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing I-694 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-694. 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-694 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about I-694?)
#- A photocopy of a signature is acceptable if it is not the original. USCIS requires a valid handwritten signature for the form.
- You can submit the appeal after the 30-day deadline if you have a good reason. USCIS does not grant extensions for the filing deadline.
- All documents must be originals; photocopies are not allowed. You may submit legible photocopies unless instructed otherwise.
- If my appeal is denied, I have no further options. You may seek legal advice or file a motion to reopen your case.
- I can submit my appeal at any USCIS office. You must file Form I-694 with the USCIS Office that adjudicated your case.
How this guide is built (Where this I-694 guidance comes from)
#This guide is based on the official instructions for Form I-694, ensuring you have the most current information and requirements. It provides non-legal advice to help you navigate the appeal process effectively.
FAQs
What happens if I miss the 30-day deadline to file my appeal?
If you miss the 30-day deadline, USCIS will not accept your appeal. It is important to file within this timeframe to ensure your case is considered.
Can I submit additional evidence after filing Form I-694?
You may submit additional evidence, but it is best to include all necessary documentation with your initial filing to avoid delays. USCIS may request more information if needed.
What should I do if my appeal is denied?
If your appeal is denied, you may have other options available, such as seeking legal advice or filing a motion to reopen your case. It's important to understand your options moving forward.
Is there a fee to file Form I-694?
Yes, you must include the correct filing fee as specified in Form G-1055 when submitting your appeal. Make sure to check the latest fee information before filing.
Do I need an attorney to file Form I-694?
While you can file the form on your own, consulting with an attorney may help ensure that your appeal is properly prepared and supported. An attorney can provide guidance on the process.
What if my signature is not valid?
USCIS will reject your form if it is not signed or if the signature is not valid. Make sure to provide a proper handwritten signature to avoid rejection.
What should I include in my brief if I choose to submit one?
If you submit a brief, it should support your appeal and can be submitted with Form I-694 or separately within 30 calendar days of the receipt date. Ensure it clearly outlines your arguments.
Can I request an oral argument for my appeal?
Yes, you can request to appear before the USCIS Director or a designated officer to present an oral argument. You must submit a letter with your Form I-694 explaining your reasons for the request.
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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