USCIS Forms Signature Requirements: Revised Guidelines

USCIS Forms Signature Requirements: Revised Guidelines

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that petitioners and applicants who seek immigration benefits must provide a valid signature on forms submitted to the agency.

Why Is This Step?

In an effort to protect and safeguard the nation’s immigration system and those who benefit from it, power of attorney signatures will no longer be accepted. If forms are filed by a corporation or other legal entity, they must be signed by an authorized person. The new policy is effective March 18, 2018.

What Changes Have Been Made?

Because of concerns about consistency and program integrity, USCIS reversed the interim memorandum’s policy on power of attorney signatures. The prohibition on power of attorney signatures does not affect signatures on behalf of individuals younger than age 14 or those with disabilities. The final memorandum makes additional changes such as providing that an authorized signatory must be employed by the petitioner and that USCIS may reject a form submitted with a faulty signature instead of offering the opportunity to fix the deficiency.

USCIS will publish revised instructions for individual forms to clearly specify the applicable signature requirements. USCIS will also address requirements for electronic signatures in future guidance.

VisaPro immigration attorneys thoroughly review your circumstances, select appropriate visa and submit an accurate application to the necessary Government Agencies. Schedule a free visa assessment today to discuss your specific needs!