Filing Guidance
This page contains filing locations, checklists and other resources to help you understand our forms and filing requirements. To find a complete list of our forms, visit the All Forms page.
Quick Links
Change Your Address
Update your address online
Check Processing Times
Current processing times by form type
Check Your Case Status
Track your case online
Typographic Error
Request correction of typographic errors
Non-Delivery of Document
Report non-delivery of documents
Case Taking Longer Than Expected
Submit inquiry if case is delayed
Where to File
Each form has a webpage with important information about how to complete the form and where to file it. If you do not file your form with the correct office or with the correct fee, you will experience processing delays.
Important: Please do NOT mail your application or petition to the "HQPDI" address on any form—that address is for submitting comments on the form itself.
Direct Filing Addresses by Form Type
Form I-130
Petition for Alien Relative
Form I-129F
Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)
Form I-485
Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
Form I-765
Application for Employment Authorization
Form I-131
Application for Travel Documents
Form I-751
Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence
Form I-140
Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
Form I-601
Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility
Instructions and Checklists
We strongly encourage you to read the instructions for the form you are submitting before you complete and submit the form.
Note: In some circumstances, the form webpage will say that requirements for that form have changed, but the form's instructions have not yet been revised. This warning will be shown in the Special Instructions section of the form landing page. Please make sure you follow those special instructions.
Many of our form pages have a checklist that will help ensure you submit all of the required documentation with your form. However, these checklists do not replace the official form instructions.
Filing Tips and Requirements
Read Form Instructions
We strongly encourage you to read the instructions for the form you are submitting before you complete and submit the form.
Check Form Edition Date
Make sure you are using the latest version of the form. Outdated forms may cause delays or rejection.
Submit Required Documentation
Review the checklist for your form to ensure you submit all required documentation.
Photographic Requirements
If your form requires photographs, ensure they meet USCIS specifications outlined in the form instructions.
FBI Privacy Notice
The immigration agency may use your biometrics to obtain criminal history records from the FBI, for identity verification, eligibility determination, immigration documents (e.g., green card, work permit), or other purposes authorized by law.
You may obtain a copy of your own FBI record using the procedures outlined at 28 CFR 16.30-16.34. For more information, please visit: www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/compact-council/guiding-principles-noncriminal-justice-applicants-privacy-rights
For information regarding how the FBI will use your fingerprints, please visit www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/compact-council/privacy-act-statement
Important Form Information
Warning: Many unofficial sites offer immigration forms and may charge fees or provide outdated versions. Do not pay for government forms.
Using outdated forms can delay or reject your case. Always download forms directly from the official government forms site: official forms.
How we estimate
Estimates use public USCIS data—for planning only. For official status, use uscis.gov.