Need to travel urgently but your I-131 travel document is still pending? A “Sample Letter To USCIS For Expediting I-131 Case” can help. It’s a formal request asking USCIS to speed up the processing of your application. People often use this letter when facing emergencies or urgent travel needs.
Writing such a letter can feel daunting. Where do you even start? What information should you include?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This article provides sample letters to help you write your own. Use these templates to craft a compelling expedite request.
Sample Letter To Uscis For Expediting I 131 Case
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
**Subject: Request to Expedite Form I-131 Application – [Your Name], Receipt Number: [Your Receipt Number]**
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to respectfully request expedited processing of my Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, receipt number [Your Receipt Number]. This application was filed on [Date of Filing].
I am requesting expedited processing due to [Clearly and concisely state your reason for needing expedited processing. Choose ONE of the following options and tailor it to your specific situation. Provide supporting documentation where possible]:
* **Severe Financial Loss:** “My current employment situation requires international travel. Delay in receiving my travel document will result in significant financial hardship, including potential loss of employment. [Optional: Briefly explain your job and how the delay impacts it. Attach supporting documents like a letter from your employer.]”
* **Medical Emergency:** “My [Relationship to you, e.g., mother, father, child] is experiencing a serious medical condition in [Country]. I need to travel urgently to provide support. [Attach supporting documents such as a doctor’s note or hospital records.]”
* **Humanitarian Reason:** “I need to travel to [Country] to [Explain the humanitarian reason, e.g., assist with disaster relief efforts, care for orphaned relatives]. Delaying my travel will have severe consequences. [Attach supporting documents if available.]”
* **USCIS Error:** “There has been an unreasonable delay in processing my application, which appears to be due to an error or administrative oversight on the part of USCIS. [Explain the error or delay as specifically as possible. Include dates of inquiries and any responses received.]”
I understand that USCIS prioritizes expedite requests based on specific criteria. I believe my situation meets these criteria due to [Reiterate the key reason for your expedite request].
I have attached copies of [List the documents you are attaching to support your request, e.g., medical records, employment letter, etc.].
Thank you for considering my request. I can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
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How to Write Letter To Uscis For Expediting I 131 Case
Subject Line: Capturing Their Attention
Your subject line is your first impression, so make it count. Instead of a generic “Expedite Request,” opt for something more informative and compelling. For instance:
- Expedite Request I-131: Urgent Humanitarian Reasons – [Your Name] – Receipt Number
- I-131 Expedite Request: Severe Financial Loss – [Your Name] – Receipt Number
Specificity is key. Tailor it to mirror the crux of your exigency. And always, always include your receipt number.
Salutation: Setting the Tone
Address your letter professionally. Avoid casual greetings. Start with:
- “To Whom It May Concern,”
- “USCIS Officer,”
While impersonal, these salutations are standard and appropriate for official correspondence. If you know the name of the officer handling your case (unlikely, but possible), use it.
Introduction: Hook, Line, and Sinker
Immediately state the purpose of your letter. Don’t bury the lede. Include:
- Your name, A-number (if applicable), and receipt number.
- Clearly state you are requesting an expedite of your I-131 application (Application for Travel Document).
- Briefly mention the reason for your expedite request.
Example: “I am writing to respectfully request an expedite of my I-131 application, receipt number [Your Receipt Number], due to [briefly state reason, e.g., my mother’s deteriorating health condition].”
Body Paragraph 1: Delving Into the Rationale
This is where you articulate the “why.” Provide a detailed narrative explaining the circumstances necessitating the expedited processing. Be forthright, but avoid embellishment.
- Clearly explain the reason for the expedite request. Common reasons include:
- Severe financial loss to a company or person.
- Urgent humanitarian reason.
- Compelling U.S. government interest.
- Clear USCIS error.
- Provide specific details. Vague statements will not suffice.
- Explain how the delay in processing is causing you or others significant hardship.
Example: “My mother, [Mother’s Name], is critically ill with [Illness] and requires immediate medical attention in [Country]. Delaying my travel would preclude me from providing her with essential care during this crucial time.”
Body Paragraph 2: Corroborating Evidence – Substantiating Your Claim
Substantiate your claims with documentary evidence. This is paramount. USCIS needs tangible proof to validate your assertions.
- Refer to the attached documents that support your expedite request.
- Examples of supporting documents:
- Medical records or letters from physicians.
- Financial statements demonstrating hardship.
- Death certificates or funeral arrangements.
- Letters from employers detailing financial loss to the company.
- Explicitly mention the documents you are including: “Attached please find a letter from Dr. [Doctor’s Name] detailing my mother’s condition, along with her medical records.”
Conclusion: Reinforcing Your Plea
Reiterate your request and express your willingness to cooperate. A strong closing can leave a lasting impression.
- Reiterate your request for expedited processing of your I-131 application.
- Express your willingness to provide any additional information or documentation that USCIS may require.
- Thank the officer for their time and consideration.
Example: “I implore you to expedite the processing of my I-131 application. I am available to provide any further information or documentation needed. Thank you for your time and diligent consideration.”
Closing: Formalities Matter
End with a professional closing. Choose one of the following:
- “Sincerely,”
- “Respectfully,”
Followed by your full name and signature (if sending a physical letter). If submitting electronically, type your full name. Ensure your name is legible.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Expediting Your I-131 Application
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the process of requesting expedited processing for Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Understanding the requirements and procedures can significantly aid in the efficient handling of your case.
What are the grounds for expediting an I-131 application?
USCIS considers various factors for expediting a case, including severe financial loss to a company or individual, urgent humanitarian reasons, compelling U.S. government interests, or clear USCIS error.
How do I submit a request to expedite my I-131?
You can submit an expedite request through the USCIS Contact Center, either online or by phone. Be prepared to provide detailed justification and supporting documentation.
What documents should I include with my expedite request?
Relevant supporting documents may include medical records, financial statements, or letters from government agencies that substantiate the reason for the expedite request.
How long does it take USCIS to respond to an expedite request?
Response times can vary, but USCIS typically reviews expedite requests within a few weeks. Monitor your case status online for updates.
What if my expedite request is denied?
If USCIS denies your expedite request, you can continue to pursue your application through the standard processing times or consider seeking legal counsel.