Understanding Form I-102: Who Needs It and How to Apply
Nonimmigrants in the United States who need to replace their Form I-94 or Form I-95 fill out Form I-102, also known as the "Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document," Whether the document was lost, stolen, or includes wrong information, the I-102 form is critical for keeping your immigration records accurate and up to date.
Purpose of Form I-102
Form I-102 performs numerous vital functions for non-immigrants in the United States:
- Replacement of Form I-94: If your Arrival-Departure Record (Form I-94) is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must file Form I-102 to request a replacement. The Form I-94 is important since it documents your admission and exit from the United States, as well as your visa status and authorized stay.
- Correction of Form I-94 or Form I-95: If your Form I-94 or Form I-95 contains incorrect information, such as your name, date of birth, or visa classification, use Form I-102 to correct the mistakes. Accurate information on these forms is critical to preserving legal status in the United States. This ground is usually used by Adjustment of Status applicants.
- Form I-94 Initial Issuance: Nonimmigrants who have been granted an immigration benefit but have not yet received an I-94 at the port of entry can utilize Form I-102 to request an initial issuance.
If you find any mistakes or missing papers on your Form I-94 or I-95, you must complete Form I-102 as soon as possible, since they might cause substantial challenges in your immigration status.
Form I-102 Fee
According to the most recent USCIS information, the current filing fee for Form I-102 is $445. This money is not refundable, even if your application is declined. Before you submit your application, be sure that all the information is correct and that you meet the qualifying conditions.
However, some candidates may be eligible for a fee remission under certain conditions. If paying the fee would cause financial hardship, you may be able to submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, together with your I-102 application. The fee waiver is normally granted depending on income, and you must produce supporting evidence to demonstrate your financial status.
Before submitting your application, always consult the most recent USCIS fee schedule, as prices are subject to change.
I-102 Filing Address
Where you file Form I-102 depends on your current location and specific circumstances. Below are the primary filing addresses:
- If You Are Filing from Within the U.S.:
- Mail your completed Form I-102, along with the required fee and supporting documents, to the USCIS Dallas Lockbox facility:
USCIS
Attn: I-102
P.O. Box 660865
Dallas, TX 75266-0865
- If You Are Filing from Outside the U.S.:
- You should file your application with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The address and specific instructions can vary, so it’s advisable to contact the embassy or consulate directly for guidance.
When mailing your application, select a reputable postal service that offers tracking to ensure that your documents are received by USCIS. Also, keep copies of your application and supporting documentation for your records.
I-102 Processing Times
The time taken to process Form I-102 may differ for a number of reasons, including the geographical location of the applicants and the number of applications in the Center of Processing that received the application. In general, the USCIS takes several months to review an application for an I-102.
As of the most recent update, the average processing time varied from 2. 5 to 5 months. However, the applicant is advised to always check the processing times on the USCIS website for the current ones. It could take some time, especially because of the high volume of applications, or it could take time because the Disability Determination Services need more information or documents from your side.
Do not allow your application to be bogged down by incomplete and or missing supporting documents. If USCIS has issued you an RFE, you should reply to it as soon as you can and furnish USCIS with the needed information to avoid more time being wasted.
Due to accurate immigration records for nonimmigrants in the U. S, Form I-102 is important to replace, correct or to obtain form I-94 or I-95, It is therefore helpful to know the purpose, fees, filing address as well as processing time associated with Form I-102. Complete the form correctly and provide necessary documents, track the status of your application so that there will be no problem with your immigration status later.
