Overview (What is I-881 used for?)
#The I-881, Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special Rule Cancellation of Removal, is a form used by eligible individuals under Section 203 of Public Law 105-100 (NACARA). It collects information about the applicant's eligibility and supporting evidence for their request.
To file Form I-881, applicants must not have been convicted of an aggravated felony and must belong to specific categories outlined in the instructions. The form also requires a valid signature, and applicants should be aware of the potential for deportation if their claims are not granted.
This application is particularly relevant for Salvadoran and Guatemalan nationals who meet certain entry and registration criteria. It is important to submit all required documents to avoid delays or denials in processing.
For more detailed instructions, you can access the form directly [here](https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/i-881.pdf).
What USCIS is really evaluating (I-881)
#USCIS evaluates criteria such as continuous physical presence in the U.S., good moral character, and evidence of extreme hardship. A common mismatch occurs when applicants fail to provide sufficient documentation to support their claims, which can lead to denials or delays in processing Form I-881.
Context & workflow (How does I-881 fit into the case?)
#Most cases file this form together with the required evidence listed on the official form page. 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 I-881?)
#- Provide proof of continuous physical presence in the U.S.
- Include affidavits from witnesses to support good moral character.
- Submit documentation that demonstrates extreme hardship.
- Attach relevant identification documents for the interview.
- Ensure all evidence is organized and clearly labeled.
Failure prevention (Why petitions are rejected or delayed)
#Technical rejections
- Ensure the application is signed correctly, as a missing or invalid signature can lead to rejection.
- Use the correct edition of the form, as outdated versions may not be accepted.
- Include all pages of the application to avoid processing delays due to incomplete submissions.
Substantive weaknesses
- Avoid inconsistencies in personal information, as discrepancies can trigger RFEs.
- Provide sufficient evidence to support claims of good moral character and continuous presence.
- Double-check that all required documents are included to prevent delays in processing.
RFE triggers and how to pre-empt (What causes RFEs for I-881?)
#- Missing required documents, such as evidence of continuous presence or good moral character.
- Invalid or missing signatures, which can lead to application rejection.
- Failure to submit the filing fee as outlined in Form G-1055.
- Inconsistencies in personal information that do not match supporting documents.
- Lack of sufficient evidence to support claims of extreme hardship.
Eligibility signals
#- Must not have been convicted of an aggravated felony.
- Must belong to one of the specified categories for eligibility.
- Two passport-style photographs with specific requirements.
- Valid signature on the application.
- Filing fee as specified in Form G-1055.
- Evidence of continuous physical presence.
- Supporting documents for claims of extreme hardship.
Form sections (Which sections matter most on I-881?)
#General Instructions
Follow the instructions carefully and gather all supporting documents needed for your application.
Interview Process
Prepare for a potential interview by gathering identification and relevant documents.
Employment Authorization
List your work history, including dates and employer details.
Address Change
Notify USCIS of any address changes within 10 days.
Processing Information
Understand the processing times and what to expect after filing.
DHS Privacy Notice
Review how your information will be used and protected.
What it asks for (What fields and questions appear on I-881?)
#- Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special Rule Cancellation of Removal
- Department of Homeland Security
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
- OMB No. 1615-0072
- Expires 03/31/2027
- Who May File Form I-881?
- Categories listed below
- Supporting Documents to Show Eligibility for Relief
- What Evidence Must You Submit?
- Signature
- Application for Suspension of Deportation or
- Special Rule Cancellation of Removal
- (Pursuant to Section 203 of Public Law 105-100, NACARA)
- What Is the Purpose of Form I-881?
- status); and
- C. Registered for ABC benefits;
- D. Applied for temporary protected status; or
- Who May Be Eligible to Be Granted Relief?
What you need before you start (What should you gather before I-881?)
#- Two identical color passport-style photographs of yourself
- Evidence of continuous physical presence in the U.S
- Provide Affidavits or letters supporting good moral character
- Documentation of extreme hardship claims
- Proof of relationship to individuals granted suspension of deportation
- Valid signature on the application
- 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 To file Form I-881, you must not have been convicted of an aggravated felony, and you must belong in one of the six
- Provide To make an initial application before the Immigration Court, you must be in deportation or removal proceedings
- Provide application before the Immigration Court, you must be in deportation or removal proceedings
- Provide If this section applies to you, the relationship to your spouse or parent must exist at the time that your spouse or parent
- Provide who is at least 21 years of age at the time your parent is granted the benefit, you must have entered the United States
- Provide rule cancellation of removal, or your parent or spouse has Form I-881 pending with USCIS. You must submit your
- Provide or subjected to extreme cruelty, you must submit your application before the Immigration Court. To make an initial
Evidence checklist (Which documents should you prepare for I-881?)
#- 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-881?)
#- Review the declarations before signing.
- Use the latest version of Adobe Reader to complete the form.
- Submit legible photocopies of all required documents.
- Include two recent passport-style photographs.
- Ensure the application is signed in ink; no stamped or typewritten signatures.
- Check that all required evidence is included with your application.
- Confirm that your application is submitted to the correct USCIS service center.
- Keep copies of everything you submit for your records.
- Download the current I-881 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-881 petitions?)
#- Missing signature or using a stamped signature.
- Not including required photographs.
- Submitting documents that are not legible.
- Failing to provide evidence of good moral character.
- Omitting required supporting documents.
- Not filing the application with the correct service center.
Examples (What does a strong I-881 submission look like?)
#- Situation: An applicant is preparing I-881 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-881. 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-881 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.
Common misconceptions (What do people often misunderstand about I-881?)
#- All applicants must submit original documents; only photocopies are required unless specified in the instructions.
- A stamped signature is acceptable; it must be a handwritten signature as per the signature requirements.
- You can submit the application without supporting evidence; all required documents must be included to avoid delays.
- You do not need to notify USCIS of an address change if you have already filed; you must notify them within 10 days of moving.
- Submitting an incomplete application is acceptable; all sections must be filled out completely to avoid rejection.
How this guide is built (Where this I-881 guidance comes from)
#This guide is based on the official instructions for Form I-881, ensuring that you have the most accurate and current information. It is designed to help you navigate the application process effectively, providing non-legal advice to assist you in your filing.
FAQs
What happens if I miss my biometrics appointment?
If you miss your biometrics appointment without good cause, your application may be considered abandoned, and USCIS may deny it. It's crucial to attend this appointment to avoid complications with your application.
Can I apply if I have a criminal record?
You must not have been convicted of an aggravated felony to be eligible to file Form I-881. If you have a criminal record, it may affect your eligibility, so it's important to review the criteria carefully.
How do I change my address after filing?
You must notify USCIS of your new address within 10 days of moving. This can be done online or by calling the USCIS Contact Center, ensuring that your application remains up to date.
What types of evidence should I submit?
You should submit evidence of continuous physical presence, good moral character, and any documentation supporting claims of extreme hardship. This may include school records, medical records, and affidavits from community members.
What if my application is missing required documents?
If your application is missing required documents, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). It's important to include all necessary documentation to avoid delays in processing.
Is a photocopy of my signature acceptable?
Yes, USCIS will consider a photocopied, faxed, or scanned copy of your original handwritten signature valid for filing purposes. Make sure the photocopy is clear and legible.
Can I submit original documents with my application?
You should submit legible photocopies of documents unless the instructions specifically state that you must submit an original document. If original documents are submitted when not required, they may be destroyed.
What should I do if I need to submit additional information after filing?
If you need to submit additional information after filing, you can do so by sending it to the USCIS office processing your application. Make sure to reference your application and include your Alien Registration Number.
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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