USCIS Signature Guide for Family Applications

Navigating the original signature requirements for USCIS applications can be a complex process, especially for family members. Here are some key insights to help you understand and navigate these requirements:

• Signature Requirement: Each application must be properly signed and filed. USCIS will not accept a stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature. This applies to all signatures on the application, ensuring compliance with USCIS signature requirements.
• Who Can Sign: If the applicant is under 14 years of age, a parent or legal guardian may sign the application on their behalf. This signature of the applicant means that the legal guardian or parent is responsible for the veracity of the information. A legal guardian may also sign for a mentally incompetent person.
• Validity of Signatures: USCIS will consider a photocopied, faxed, or scanned copy of the original handwritten signature valid for filing purposes. The photocopy, fax, or scan must be of the original document containing the handwritten, ink signature. This adherence to USCIS wet signature policies is crucial for the application’s acceptance.
• Consequences of Invalid Signature: If the application is not signed or if the requisite signature on the application is not valid, USCIS will reject the application. If USCIS accepts an application for adjudication and determines that it has a deficient signature, USCIS will deny the application. This highlights the importance of ensuring a complete and true signature of the holder USCIS as required.
• Certification: The applicant must certify, under penalty of perjury, that all of the information in the application and any document submitted with it was provided or authorized by them, that they reviewed and understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, the application and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.
• Family Members’ Signatures: Each family member must type or print their full name and sign in the spaces provided. All family members identified in the application must sign and date the form, adhering to the USCIS signature policy. This ensures that all information provided is backed by each family member under the penalty of perjury, facilitating family reunification immigration processes.

Remember, if you do not fill out the application or fail to submit the required documents listed in the instructions, USCIS may deny your application. It’s important to understand and follow these signature requirements to ensure your application is accepted and processed without any issues. This understanding is especially required for those understanding family-based immigration or seeking to bring parents to the USA, where the immigration process can be lengthy and complex, requiring careful adherence to USCIS protocols.