Printable Form I-90: A Comprehensive Guide to Filing for U.S. Citizenship
Navigating the path to U.S. citizenship can be a complex process, but one of the crucial steps involves completing and filing Form I-90. This printable form serves as the application for naturalization, and understanding its intricacies is essential for a successful submission.
This guide will delve into the purpose, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step instructions for completing Form I-90. We will also provide valuable insights into the filing process, including methods, fees, and timelines. Additionally, we will offer a link to the official printable form and discuss its advantages and disadvantages.
Overview of Form I-90
Form I-90, also known as the Application for Replacement of Permanent Resident Card, is a crucial document for permanent residents in the United States. Its primary purpose is to replace a lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated Green Card, which serves as proof of permanent residency.
Eligibility requirements for filing Form I-90 include:
– Being a lawful permanent resident of the United States
– Having a Green Card that has been lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated
– Meeting the continuous physical presence and residence requirements for permanent residency
– Not having been absent from the United States for more than one year at a time without permission from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
– Not having committed any crimes that would make you ineligible for permanent residency
Completing Form I-90
Filling out Form I-90 is crucial to ensure a successful application. Follow these instructions carefully to complete each section accurately:
- Part 1: Personal Information – Provide your full name, address, contact details, and social security number.
- Part 2: Eligibility – Mark the appropriate boxes indicating your eligibility for citizenship, such as naturalization or military service.
- Part 3: Background Information – Provide details about your birthplace, immigration history, and previous citizenship.
- Part 4: Good Moral Character – Answer questions related to your character and criminal history.
- Part 5: Attachment of Documents – List and attach supporting documents as per the instructions.
- Part 6: Signature and Certification – Sign and date the form in the presence of a notary public or other authorized official.
Supporting Documents
To support your application, gather the following documents:
- Birth certificate or passport
- Permanent resident card (if applicable)
- Military discharge papers (if applicable)
- Evidence of good moral character, such as letters of recommendation or tax returns
- Two passport-style photographs
Common Errors to Avoid
Pay attention to these common pitfalls when filling out Form I-90:
- Inaccurate or incomplete information
- Missing or insufficient supporting documents
- Unsigned or improperly certified form
- Late submission
By following these instructions and avoiding common errors, you can increase your chances of a successful Form I-90 application.
Filing Form I-90
Filing Form I-90 is the official way to apply for US citizenship or to replace a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). You can file Form I-90 online, by mail, or through an attorney or accredited representative.
The filing fee for Form I-90 is $455. The processing time for Form I-90 varies depending on the method of filing and the workload of the USCIS. Generally, it takes about 6 to 12 months to process Form I-90.
Filing Methods
There are three ways to file Form I-90:
- Online: You can file Form I-90 online through the USCIS website. This is the fastest and most convenient way to file Form I-90.
- By mail: You can file Form I-90 by mail by sending it to the USCIS address listed on the form instructions.
- Through an attorney or accredited representative: You can hire an attorney or accredited representative to help you file Form I-90. This can be a good option if you are not comfortable filing the form yourself or if you have a complex case.
Role of Attorney or Accredited Representative
An attorney or accredited representative can help you with the following tasks:
- Reviewing your Form I-90 to make sure it is complete and accurate
- Submitting your Form I-90 to the USCIS
- Representing you at your interview
- Appealing the decision on your Form I-90
If you are considering hiring an attorney or accredited representative, it is important to do your research and choose someone who is qualified and experienced in immigration law.
Tracking the Status of Form I-90
Tracking the status of your Form I-90 application is essential to stay informed about its progress. Here are the different ways to check the status:
Online Case Status Checker
- Visit the USCIS website and use the online case status checker.
- Enter your receipt number and other details to view the current status.
USCIS Contact Center
- Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.
- Provide your receipt number and personal information to get updates.
USCIS Mobile App
- Download the official USCIS mobile app on your smartphone.
- Create an account and add your case to track its status.
Statuses of Form I-90 Application
Your Form I-90 application can have various statuses, including:
- Case Received: USCIS has received your application and is processing it.
- Biometrics Appointment Scheduled: You need to attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprints and photos.
- Biometrics Appointment Completed: You have completed your biometrics appointment.
- Case Approved: Your application has been approved, and you will receive a new Green Card.
- Case Denied: Your application has been denied, and you will receive a notice explaining the reasons.
Printable Form I-90
The official printable Form I-90 is available on the USCIS website. It is a fillable PDF that can be completed on a computer or printed and filled out by hand.
There are several advantages to using a printable form. First, it is free to download and use. Second, it can be completed at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home. Third, you can save a copy of the completed form for your records.
However, there are also some disadvantages to using a printable form. First, it can be more time-consuming to complete than using the online form. Second, you must have a printer and scanner to use a printable form. Third, you must be careful to use the most recent version of the form, as the instructions and requirements may change from time to time.
It is important to use the most recent version of Form I-90 because the instructions and requirements may change from time to time. The USCIS website always has the most up-to-date version of the form available for download.
Official Link to Printable Form I-90
https://www.uscis.gov/i-90
Common Queries
What is the purpose of Form I-90?
Form I-90 is the application for naturalization, which is the process of becoming a U.S. citizen.
Who is eligible to file Form I-90?
To be eligible to file Form I-90, you must meet certain requirements, such as being a permanent resident for at least five years, being physically present in the U.S. for at least half of that time, and having good moral character.
Where can I find the official printable Form I-90?
You can find the official printable Form I-90 on the USCIS website.
What are the advantages of using a printable form?
Using a printable form allows you to fill it out at your own pace and make corrections as needed before submitting it.
What are the disadvantages of using a printable form?
One disadvantage of using a printable form is that it can be more time-consuming than filling out the form online.
