How to assemble a USCIS filing package
Since April 2024, USCIS charges a separate filing fee for each form in a package — there is no bundled fee. Each form must be the current edition, fully completed (write "N/A" or "None" instead of leaving required fields blank), and signed by hand by the right person. USCIS recommends paying each fee separately, so a mistake on one fee doesn't sink the entire package.
- One payment per form. If a single combined check is short, USCIS may return everything.
- Current editions only. The edition date is printed at the bottom of every page — all pages must match.
- Original ink signatures. Only a handwritten ink signature — or a scan, photocopy, or fax of one — is valid on a paper filing. A typed name, a cursive or script font, a stamp, or e-signature software output (such as DocuSign) is not; an electronic signature counts only when it is captured through a USCIS online account during online filing. Under the DHS signature rule effective 07/10/2026, an invalid signature on a paper filing can be denied — USCIS keeps the filing fee and there is no opportunity to cure — not merely rejected. Forms N-600 and N-600K are the two exceptions: a signature defect on those is a rejection, not a denial.
- Certified translations. Every foreign-language document needs a complete certified English translation.
- Keep a full copy. Photocopy or scan the entire signed package before mailing it.
Frequently asked questions
What forms make up a family green card package?
When the relative is already in the U.S., the typical adjustment package is I-130 + I-485 + I-765 + I-131 — about $3,005 in USCIS filing fees on paper. Select the "Family green card" package above to see the full checklist.
Are the fees different for online filing?
Many forms are $50 cheaper online. The checklist above shows both totals for your selection; the exact amounts come from the official G-1055 schedule.
Does this checklist include the supporting evidence for my case?
It covers what applies to every filer: forms, fees, editions, signatures, dates, and the documented filing problems for each form. Case-specific evidence (civil documents, financial support, category eligibility) depends on your situation — check each form's official instructions on uscis.gov, and consider a licensed immigration attorney for complex cases.
What gets a USCIS filing package rejected?
The most common rejection causes are missing or invalid signatures, an outdated form edition, required fields left blank instead of marked N/A or None, the wrong filing fee, and missing required initial evidence. USCIS returns rejected packages unprocessed and the fees are generally non-refundable.
Do I pay one USCIS fee for the whole package or one per form?
One per form, and USCIS recommends a separate payment for each — if one fee is wrong, only that form is rejected instead of the whole package. The amounts come from the official G-1055 fee schedule and differ for paper vs. online filing on many forms.
What forms do I file for a family-based green card?
When the relative is already in the U.S., the typical adjustment-of-status package is Form I-130 (the petition), Form I-485 (the green card application), Form I-765 (work permit — discounted to $260 when filed with a pending I-485), and Form I-131 (travel document). Since April 2024, USCIS charges a separate fee for each form.