Self-Declaration Form to USCIS: What You Need to Know

When filing a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you may be required to submit a self-declaration form, also known as Form I-129. This article will provide an overview of what you need to know about this form.

Filing Fees

Before submitting your petition, you must pay the filing fee for Form I-129. The fee is effective for filings postmarked on or after April 1, 2024, and later. You can find the current fee schedule by visiting the USCIS website. Payment methods accepted include checks, money orders, cashier's checks, credit cards, and debit cards using Form G-1450.

Who Can File

Petitioners may use Form I-129 to request an extension of stay in or change of status for certain nonimmigrant workers, including E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B1, TN, and others. This form is also used by petitioners to file on behalf of a nonimmigrant worker seeking temporary entry into the United States to perform services or labor, receive training, or engage in other activities.

Associated Applications

If your dependent's associated applications are not submitted together with your Form I-129, they will be adjudicated separately. This includes forms such as Form I-765 filed by a dependent spouse for an employment authorization document based on H-4 or L-2 status.

Online Filing

USCIS will begin accepting online filing for H-1B cap petitions and associated Forms I-907 for petitioners whose registrations have been selected starting April 1, 2024. Non-cap H-1B petitions can be filed online as of March 25, 2024.

Lockbox Filing

As of April 1, 2024, all paper-filed Form I-129 petitions requesting H-1B1 (HSC) or H-1B classification must be filed at a USCIS lockbox facility. Petitions received at a service center on or after this date will be rejected.

In summary, Form I-129 is an essential document for petitioners seeking to request an extension of stay in or change of status for nonimmigrant workers. Understanding the filing fees, payment methods, and associated applications is crucial for a successful submission. Additionally, USCIS has implemented online filing options for certain petitions, and all paper-filed petitions must be filed at designated lockbox facilities as of April 1, 2024. By following these guidelines, petitioners can ensure a smooth and efficient processing experience with the USCIS.

Self declaration form to uscis