A “Sample Letter to USCIS for Change of Marital Status” informs USCIS about a change in your marital situation. This is needed if you get married, divorced, or widowed while your immigration case is pending. You must notify USCIS to ensure accurate records.
Need to write this letter? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.
We’re sharing sample letters to make it easy. Use these templates to write your own letter. We aim to simplify the process for you.
Sample Letter To Uscis For Change Of Marital Status
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
**Subject: Change of Marital Status – [Your USCIS Case Number]**
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to inform you of a change in my marital status. My previous marital status was [Previous Marital Status], and it has now changed to [Current Marital Status]. This change occurred on [Date of Change].
[If applicable: Briefly explain the reason for the change, e.g., “I am now divorced as of [Date of Divorce]” or “I am now married as of [Date of Marriage]”].
My USCIS case number is [Your USCIS Case Number].
I have attached supporting documentation [List attached documents, e.g., “Divorce Decree,” “Marriage Certificate”].
Please update my records to reflect this change. I am available to provide any additional information you may require.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To USCIS For Change of Marital Status
1. Subject Line: Crystal Clear Communication
The subject line is prime real estate. Don’t squander it. Be unambiguous. State your purpose directly. A vague subject line risks your letter being overlooked.
- Example: “Change of Marital Status – [Your Name] – USCIS Receipt Number [Your Receipt Number]”
- Including your receipt number expedites the processing.
2. Salutation: Formal, Yet Cordial
Maintain a professional demeanor from the outset. Avoid overly casual greetings; they are unbecoming in formal correspondence.
- Acceptable: “Dear USCIS Officer,”
- If you know the specific officer handling your case, address them directly: “Dear Officer [Officer’s Last Name],”
- Avoid: “Hey USCIS,” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
3. Introduction: Laying the Groundwork
The introductory paragraph should succinctly state your name, Alien Registration Number (A-Number), and the purpose of your letter: to apprise USCIS of your altered marital status. Brevity is key.
- “I, [Your Full Name], A-Number [Your A-Number], am writing to formally notify USCIS of a change in my marital status. I was previously [Your Previous Marital Status] and am now [Your Current Marital Status] as of [Date of Marriage/Divorce].”
- Reference any pending applications to which this change is pertinent.
4. Body Paragraphs: Elucidating the Details
This is where you furnish the specifics. Provide the date of the marriage or divorce, the location where it occurred, and the full name of your spouse (or former spouse). Clarity averts confusion.
- If married: “I married [Spouse’s Full Name] on [Date of Marriage] in [City, State/Country]. A copy of our marriage certificate is enclosed.”
- If divorced: “My divorce from [Former Spouse’s Full Name] was finalized on [Date of Divorce] in [City, State/Country]. A copy of the divorce decree is enclosed.”
- Include certified copies of relevant documentation: marriage certificate, divorce decree, death certificate (if applicable). Never send originals.
5. Impact on Pending Applications: Addressing Relevancy
Explicitly state how your change in marital status affects any pending applications. This is crucial for preventing delays and ensuring accurate adjudication.
- “This change in marital status [does/does not] affect my pending [Application Type, e.g., I-485] application. If it does affect it, explain how. For example: “This marriage invalidates my prior petition based on my previous marriage.”
- Be forthright. Concealing information can have dire consequences.
6. Closing: Professional Courtesies
Adopt a formal closing that conveys respect and willingness to provide further information. Discourage any hint of arrogance or entitlement.
- Acceptable: “Sincerely,” “Respectfully,” “Yours Truly,”
- Followed by your typed full name and handwritten signature (if submitting a physical letter).
- Include your phone number and email address for ease of contact.
7. Enclosures: Ensuring Completeness
A meticulously assembled dossier of supporting documents bolsters your claim and demonstrates diligence.
- List all documents enclosed: e.g., “Copy of Marriage Certificate,” “Copy of Divorce Decree,” “Copy of Driver’s License,” “Copy of A-Number Card.”
- Ensure all copies are clear and legible.
- Organize your documents logically.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Change of Marital Status Notification to USCIS
This section addresses common inquiries regarding notifying the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) about a change in your marital status.
Understanding the process and required documentation is crucial for maintaining compliance with immigration regulations.
When should I notify USCIS of a change in my marital status?
You should notify USCIS as soon as possible after the change occurs, particularly if your immigration status or pending application is affected.
What documents should I include with my notification letter?
Include a copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree, any relevant immigration documents (e.g., Green Card, approval notices), and a clear explanation of how the change affects your case.
How should I send the notification letter to USCIS?
Send the letter via certified mail with return receipt requested to ensure proof of delivery. Include your Alien Registration Number (A-Number) on all correspondence.
What happens if I don’t notify USCIS of my change in marital status?
Failure to notify USCIS can result in delays in processing your immigration case or, in some situations, could negatively affect your eligibility for immigration benefits.
Does notifying USCIS of a change in marital status guarantee approval of my application?
No, notifying USCIS is a procedural requirement. The agency will evaluate your case based on all the evidence and applicable laws and regulations.