Overview (What is I-854 used for?)
#This form is typically submitted by government agencies or law enforcement officials as part of official processes. I-854 (Inter-Agency Alien Witness and Informant Record) is an official USCIS form. This form provides additional supporting documentation for a pending application or petition. All evidence must be properly connected to the primary case.
What USCIS is really evaluating (I-854)
#I-854 focuses on evidence and identifiers that support eligibility for the requested benefit. Reviewers cross-check names, dates, and category details across your form and supporting documents.
Context & workflow (How does I-854 fit into the case?)
#Most cases file this form with required supporting documents. Review the official instructions for your specific category and situation.
Who uses it
I-854 is submitted by government agencies or law enforcement officials. This form is not intended for general public self-filing.
When it is used
- Federal, state, or local LEAs (the U.S. Attorney’s Office is considered an LEA for purposes of this form) may use these forms to request that an alien witness and/or informant is: 1.
- Allowed to adjust to lawful permanent resident status from the S nonimmigrant classification (Form I-854B).
- S-5 classification This classification is for an alien who possesses and is willing to provide critical, reliable information to the requesting LEA on a criminal organization or enterprise, and who otherwise qualifies under INA section 101(a)(15)(S)(i) and 8 CFR 214.2(t)(1). 2.
- S-6 classification This classification is for an alien who possesses and is willing to provide information about a terrorist organization; who will be or is placed in danger as a result; who is eligible for an award under section 36(a) of the DOS Basic Authorities Act of 1956, 22 U.S.C. 2708; and who otherwise qualifies under INA section 101(a)(15)(S)(ii) and 8 CFR 214.2(t)(2). 3.
- S-7 classification This classification is for a spouse, married and unmarried sons and daughters, and parents of an alien witness and/or informant who otherwise qualify under INA section 101(a)(15)(S) and 8 CFR 214.2(t).
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Form edition is current
- All required signatures are present
- Filing fee is correct
Substantive weaknesses
- All required sections are completed
- Supporting documents are organized and relevant
- Information is consistent across all forms
Eligibility signals
#- Eligibility requirements vary by case type
- Review the official instructions for specific requirements
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on I-854?)
#- Primary application reference information
- Additional supporting documentation
- Explanation of evidence relevance
- Applicant or preparer certification
What you need before you start (What should you gather before I-854?)
#- The current edition of I-854
- Valid government-issued identification
- Supporting documentation for your case
- Filing fee or fee waiver documentation
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for I-854?)
#- Completed form with required signatures
- Government-issued identification
- Supporting documents for your case type
- Translations for non-English documents
Checklist (What are the key steps before filing I-854?)
#- Obtain the current I-854 and review all instructions
- Verify signatory has proper authorization within the agency officials
- Gather all required case identifiers (A-Number, case numbers)
- Compile supporting documentation as specified in instructions
- Complete all required certification sections
- Ensure all information is consistent with related case records
- Have authorized agency officials sign and date the form
- Organize the submission packet per instructions
- Retain copies for official records
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-854 petitions?)
#- Submitting an outdated form edition
- Missing required signatures or dates
- Inconsistent information across submitted documents
- Incomplete form sections
- Missing supporting documentation
Examples (What does a strong I-854 submission look like?)
#- Complete all certifications: Ensure all required official certifications are properly signed and dated.
- Verify documentation: All supporting documents must be current and properly formatted.
- Cross-reference information: Information must be consistent across all sections and supporting documents.
- Follow submission procedures: Submit through proper channels as specified in the instructions.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about I-854?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Filing does not guarantee approval
- Requirements may differ based on your specific situation
How this guide is built (Where this I-854 guidance comes from)
#This guide is based on official instructions for I-854. Review the current form and instructions for the most accurate information.
FAQs
What does filing I-854 actually accomplish?
I-854 serves several purposes: Facilitates immigration processing. Documents required information for the agency. Creates a formal record of the submission
What happens if I-854 is incomplete or rejected?
Providing inconsistent information across forms.. Submitting outdated form editions.. This can result in processing delays or requests for additional information.
What are the most common errors when completing I-854?
Common issues include: • Providing inconsistent information across forms. • Submitting outdated form editions. • Missing signatures or dates. • Not including required supporting documents. Review the form instructions carefully before filing.
Does I-854 guarantee approval of my case?
I-854 has specific limitations. Filing this form alone does not guarantee any particular outcome. The decision depends on whether all requirements are met.
What do people often get wrong about I-854?
A common misconception is that filing I-854 is sufficient by itself. In most cases, it is part of a larger process with multiple steps and requirements. Filing does not guarantee any particular outcome.
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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