Copies vs. Original

[Geist 0]

Provided my husband's info arrives in the mail tomorrow *crosses fingers* I will be mailing my I-130 to the Vermont SC! But when reading the info on putting the packet together, it says to try not to send originals. For some documents, this makes sense, like my marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc. But what about for the I-130, G-325A, Affidavits, etc. Shouldn't I send the originals since they're only meant for the USCIS to see anyway? So what should I do? Copies or originals?

[YuAndDan 153]

Per USCIS

USCIS no longer routinely requires submission of original documents or "certified copies." Instead, ordinary legible photocopies of such documents (including naturalization certificates and alien registration cards) will be acceptable for initial filing and approval of petitions and applications.

At the discretion of the officer, original documents may still be required in individual cases. Please be advised that USCIS no longer returns original documents submitted with the exception of Certificates of Naturalization, Forms I-551, Permanent Resident Card, Forms I-94, Arrival/Departure Document, valid passports, or those specifically requested by the officer. Such documents will be returned when they are no longer needed.

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1RCRD

You bring originals with you to the interview, for them to inspect.

Yes the USCIS forms need to be originals, I-130, I-129F ect... (Make copies to keep for your self)

Edited February 5, 2007 by YuAndDan

[Geist 0]

Per USCIS

USCIS no longer routinely requires submission of original documents or "certified copies." Instead, ordinary legible photocopies of such documents (including naturalization certificates and alien registration cards) will be acceptable for initial filing and approval of petitions and applications.

At the discretion of the officer, original documents may still be required in individual cases. Please be advised that USCIS no longer returns original documents submitted with the exception of Certificates of Naturalization, Forms I-551, Permanent Resident Card, Forms I-94, Arrival/Departure Document, valid passports, or those specifically requested by the officer. Such documents will be returned when they are no longer needed.

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/men...00045f3d6a1RCRD

You bring originals with you to the interview, for them to inspect.

Yes the USCIS forms need to be originals, I-130, I-129F ect... (Make copies to keep for your self)

Excellent! Thank you for the prompt answer!