The “Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document,” or Form I-102, is a necessary document for nonimmigrant aliens who need to seek or replace their Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95. This tutorial will help you manage the procedure more effectively by explaining the purpose of Form I-102, where to file it, processing times, and the related price.
What is the Purpose of Form I-102?
For nonimmigrants in the US who have misplaced, destroyed, or never received their Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95, Form I-102 is essential. The I-94 form is essential since it documents your arrival and departure details. It is also frequently needed to verify your legal status in the country when requesting specific immigration benefits, extending your stay, or changing your status.
There are various situations in which Form I-102 filing may be necessary:
- Lost or Stolen I-94/I-94W/I-95: You will have to request a new document in the event that it is misplaced or stolen.
- Incorrect Information: You can obtain a corrected copy of your I-94 by submitting Form I-102 if it has inaccurate information on it. Most frequently this is required for Adjustment of Status applicants, who file Forms I-485 and I-130 with USCIS.
- Never Issued: You can get an I-94, I-94W, or I-95 by using Form I-102 if U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) did not issue one to you upon entry into the country.
This form is very important because the I-94 form is frequently used as verification of legal status in the United States. Nonimmigrants who do not have a valid I-94 may have difficulty confirming their status, limiting their ability to legally remain in the country.
I-102 Filing Address
The filing address for Form I-102 is determined by your geography and individual circumstances. Typically, you would submit the form to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) lockbox facility.
These are the standard filing addresses:
- For Regular Mail:
USCIS
O. Box 805373
Chicago, IL 60680-5373
- For Express Mail and Courier Deliveries:
USCIS
Attn: I-102
131 South Dearborn, 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
I-102 Processing Times
Form I-102 processing timeframes vary depending on the USCIS service center that handles your case and the current volume. On average, processing time ranges from 2 to 5 months. However, this is only an estimate; actual timeframes may be longer or shorter.
The USCIS Case Processing Times page provides the most accurate processing time for your unique case. Choose “Form I-102” from the dropdown menu, then select the service center where your application was lodged. This will provide you with a more accurate estimate based on real-time data.
It’s crucial to remember that a number of variables, including the season, your application’s thoroughness, and any recent changes to immigration laws, may have an impact on processing timelines. To prevent delays, it is therefore advised that you submit your application as soon as possible.
Form I-102 Fee
Form I-102 filing fees are $445. Your application must be submitted with this fee, which can be paid with a check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” Make sure your payment method is accurate because incomplete or inaccurate payments may result in your application being denied.
There are few situations when Form I-102 fee waivers are offered. You must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, with your I-102 application if you think you are eligible for a fee waiver. To ascertain whether you are eligible for the waiver, the USCIS will examine your financial circumstances.
If you have any questions about the cost or mode of payment, check the USCIS website again or speak with an immigration attorney to avoid any delays or problems.
If a nonimmigrant needs to request a replacement Arrival-Departure Record, they must have Form I-102. Important steps in the application process include understanding the form’s purpose, knowing where to file it, being aware of the processing times, and making sure the right cost is paid.
