Need a copy of a notice from USCIS? You might need it if you lost the original. Or, you never received it in the first place. This letter politely asks USCIS for that copy.
Writing to USCIS can feel daunting. You want to get it right. You need a clear and effective request.
That’s why we’re here to help. We’ll share sample letters you can use. These templates make requesting your notice easy.
Sample Letter To Uscis Request Copy Of Notice
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
**Subject: Request for Copy of Notice – [Your Name], [Receipt Number]**
Dear USCIS,
I am writing to request a copy of a notice that I previously received from your office.
* **My Name:** [Your Full Name]
* **Receipt Number:** [Your Receipt Number] (if known)
* **A-Number:** [Your A-Number] (if applicable)
* **Date of Birth:** [Your Date of Birth]
* **Mailing Address:** [Your Current Mailing Address]
I am requesting a copy of the [Specific Notice Type, e.g., Approval Notice, Request for Evidence] that I received around [Approximate Date or Date Range]. If you are unsure, please provide copies of all notices related to the above receipt number.
I need this copy for [Briefly State Reason, e.g., my records, to apply for a driver’s license].
Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
How to Write Letter To USCIS Request Copy Of Notice
1. Crafting the Subject Line: Precision is Paramount
The subject line is your clarion call. It must immediately alert the USCIS officer to the purpose of your missive. A vague subject line risks languishing in bureaucratic purgatory.
- Be explicit: “Request for Copy of Notice – [Your Name] – [Receipt Number]”.
- Including both your name and receipt number minimizes ambiguity and expedites processing.
2. The Salutation: A Touch of Formality
While you might be tempted to adopt a casual tone, remember you’re interacting with a government agency. Respect begets respect, and adherence to protocol streamlines the process.
- Opt for “Dear USCIS Officer,”.
- Avoid overly familiar greetings like “Hey” or omitting the salutation altogether.
3. The Opening Paragraph: Concisely State Your Purpose
Don’t bury the lede! The first paragraph should succinctly convey your reason for writing. Clarity and brevity are your allies here.
- Begin with a direct statement: “I am writing to formally request a copy of the official notice pertaining to [Receipt Number] pertaining to [Your Name].”
- Briefly mention the type of notice if known (e.g., Request for Evidence, Approval Notice).
4. Detailing Your Identifying Information: Eradicating Doubt
The USCIS deals with countless applications. Providing comprehensive identifying information is crucial to retrieving your specific case file swiftly. Leave no room for conjecture.
- Full Legal Name: [Your Full Legal Name]
- USCIS Receipt Number: [Your Receipt Number]
- Date of Birth: [Your Date of Birth (MM/DD/YYYY)]
- Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if applicable: [Your A-Number]
- Current Mailing Address: [Your Full Mailing Address]
5. Elucidating the Reason for Your Request: Transparency Breeds Efficiency
Providing a rationale for needing the copy can expedite the process. While not strictly mandatory, it demonstrates good faith and may highlight the urgency of your request.
- Be forthright: “I require this copy because [briefly explain reason, e.g., the original was lost, misplaced, or needed for another application].”
- Avoid lengthy explanations; a sentence or two should suffice.
6. Offering Additional Contact Information: Facilitating Communication
Providing a phone number and email address ensures that USCIS can easily reach you if they require further clarification. It’s about making the process as seamless as possible.
- Phone Number: [Your Phone Number]
- Email Address: [Your Email Address]
7. The Closing: Expressing Gratitude and Ensuring Professionalism
End your letter on a positive note. A simple expression of gratitude reinforces your professionalism and leaves a favorable impression. Politeness is persuasive.
- Use a formal closing: “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,”
- Sign your name clearly.
- Type your full name below your signature.
- Include a final statement of appreciation: “Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter.”
Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting a Copy of a USCIS Notice
This section provides answers to common questions about requesting copies of notices from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Understanding the process can help ensure you obtain the necessary documentation efficiently.
How do I request a copy of a notice from USCIS?
You can request a copy of a USCIS notice by submitting Form G-884, Request for a Copy of Record, to USCIS. Include all relevant information about the original notice, such as the receipt number and date of issuance, if known.
What information should I include in my request?
Include your full name, address, date of birth, A-Number (if applicable), receipt number of the original application or petition, the date of the notice (if known), and a clear explanation of why you need a copy of the notice.
Is there a fee for requesting a copy of a notice?
Yes, there is a fee associated with Form G-884. Refer to the USCIS website or the form instructions for the current fee amount and acceptable methods of payment.
How long does it take to receive a copy of the notice?
Processing times vary. Check the USCIS website for current processing times for Form G-884. Processing times can be affected by various factors, including workload and the complexity of the request.
What if I don’t have the receipt number of the original application?
If you do not have the receipt number, provide as much information as possible about the original application or petition, such as the date it was filed, the type of application or petition, and the location where it was filed. This will help USCIS locate the record.