🌍 Understanding the IR6 Green Card Category (2025 Guide)

[Premiums]

🟢 IR6 Green Card Category.

The IR6 group is known as the immediate relative spouse of a U.S. citizen (Adjustment of Status).

It is particularly relevant to people who are already residing in the United States and have a spouse or husband that is a U.S. citizen so that they could change the status of their immigration to that of a lawful permanent resident (Green Card owner) without leaving the country.

In simpler terms:
In case you get married to a U.S. citizen, and you are already within the U.S. (say on a visa or even on a legal entry), your accepted Green Card will have the IR6 code.

IR6 vs. CR6: What’s the Difference?

The greatest area of confusion is between the IR6 and CR6 categories. They both mention that they refer to spouses of U.S citizens, but it all depends on the duration the marriage was at the time of issuing the Green Card.

Category Meaning Validity
IR6 Wife or husband of a U.S citizen, married 2 years or more 10-year Green Card (Permanent)
CR6 Married to U.S. citizen, less than 2 years of marriage 2-year Conditional Green Card.

As a CR6 holder, once he or she reaches the two-year mark, he or she may file to have the conditions removed (Form I-751) and be transitioned to an IR6 classification.

Requirements Eligibility IR6 Category.

In order to be listed under the IR 6 in 2025, there are a number of specific conditions which need to be satisfied by the applicant:

Legal Marriage:
The marriage should be a legally binding one under the U.S. law or foreign law.

Spouse Must Be a U.S. Citizen:
Evidence of the U.S citizenship of the spouse (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate) is necessary.

Proof of Bona Fide Marriage:
The connection should be real - not on immigration grounds. Such facts as shared leases, bank accounts, photos are important.

Lawful Entry into the U.S.:
The applicant should also be a legal entry into the United States (inspected at a port of entry).

No Immigration Violation or Disqualifying Criminals:
The applicants need to be legally behaving and admissible to the U.S. on immigration law.

The IR6 Green Card Process (2025 Steps): How It Works.

The general steps to be taken to apply and receive an IR6 Green Card in 2025 are as follows:

Lodging Form I-130 (Petition of Alien Relatives):
This is filed by the U.S citizen spouse to USCIS to prove the relationship.

Application to Register Permanent Residence: Filing Form I-485.
As the applicant is already in the U.S., this can be applied at the same time as the I-130 (so-called concurrent filing).

Biometrics Appointment:
The applicant is taken through a session of fingerprinting against security and background checks.

Interview:
The USCIS interview takes place before both spouses to confirm the genuineness of their relationship.

Permission and Green Card Issue:
Upon approval, the applicant is issued with a 10-year permanent Green Card that is IR6.

Benefits of an IR6 Green Card

IR6 Green card is a full-fledged permanent residence grant:

Retire permanently in the U.S.

Receive federal benefits, healthcare and education.

Sponsor some of the members of the family in order to enable them to be immigrated.

Pathway to U.S citizenship in 3 years (on condition of still being married to same U.S citizen).

IR6 Processing Times (2025 Update)

By 2025, more digital processing tools have been adopted by USCIS, and therefore average IR6 case times fall within:

Most applications take 8-14 months (local office back logs).

Rapid processing can be used when dealing with humanitarian or urgent family cases.

Caution: The most frequent causes of IR6 Delays or Denials.

Although IR6 is among the less complicated types of Green Card applications, the following pitfalls should be noted by the applicants:

Lost or missing documentation.

Absence of evidence of good faith marriage.

Entering the U.S. unlawfully.

The presence of immigration or visa overstays in the past.

Absence in USCIS interviews.

The effectiveness of the approval should be facilitated by adequate preparation, frank disclosure, and legal counseling.

IR6 The IR6 in the Modern Immigration Landscape (2025 Perspective).

IR6 Green Card is not merely a visa category but it is also a representation of the family unity ideology in the U.S. immigration system.

As the government dedicates more momentum to safe online processing, fraud detection and quicker adjudication, 2025 has simplified the process of genuine applicants reuniting and settling as a pair.

Further, USCIS is improving integration services to IR6 beneficiaries, providing digital immigration profile, renewal notices, and citizenship-prep services through online portals.

 

[Alpha man]

🟢 IR6 Green Card Category.

The IR6 group is known as the immediate relative spouse of a U.S. citizen (Adjustment of Status).

It is particularly relevant to people who are already residing in the United States and have a spouse or husband that is a U.S. citizen so that they could change the status of their immigration to that of a lawful permanent resident (Green Card owner) without leaving the country.

In simpler terms:
In case you get married to a U.S. citizen, and you are already within the U.S. (say on a visa or even on a legal entry), your accepted Green Card will have the IR6 code.

IR6 vs. CR6: What’s the Difference?

The greatest area of confusion is between the IR6 and CR6 categories. They both mention that they refer to spouses of U.S citizens, but it all depends on the duration the marriage was at the time of issuing the Green Card.

Category Meaning Validity
IR6 Wife or husband of a U.S citizen, married 2 years or more 10-year Green Card (Permanent)
CR6 Married to U.S. citizen, less than 2 years of marriage 2-year Conditional Green Card.

As a CR6 holder, once he or she reaches the two-year mark, he or she may file to have the conditions removed (Form I-751) and be transitioned to an IR6 classification.

Requirements Eligibility IR6 Category.

In order to be listed under the IR 6 in 2025, there are a number of specific conditions which need to be satisfied by the applicant:

Legal Marriage:
The marriage should be a legally binding one under the U.S. law or foreign law.

Spouse Must Be a U.S. Citizen:
Evidence of the U.S citizenship of the spouse (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate) is necessary.

Proof of Bona Fide Marriage:
The connection should be real - not on immigration grounds. Such facts as shared leases, bank accounts, photos are important.

Lawful Entry into the U.S.:
The applicant should also be a legal entry into the United States (inspected at a port of entry).

No Immigration Violation or Disqualifying Criminals:
The applicants need to be legally behaving and admissible to the U.S. on immigration law.

The IR6 Green Card Process (2025 Steps): How It Works.

The general steps to be taken to apply and receive an IR6 Green Card in 2025 are as follows:

Lodging Form I-130 (Petition of Alien Relatives):
This is filed by the U.S citizen spouse to USCIS to prove the relationship.

Application to Register Permanent Residence: Filing Form I-485.
As the applicant is already in the U.S., this can be applied at the same time as the I-130 (so-called concurrent filing).

Biometrics Appointment:
The applicant is taken through a session of fingerprinting against security and background checks.

Interview:
The USCIS interview takes place before both spouses to confirm the genuineness of their relationship.

Permission and Green Card Issue:
Upon approval, the applicant is issued with a 10-year permanent Green Card that is IR6.

Benefits of an IR6 Green Card

IR6 Green card is a full-fledged permanent residence grant:

Retire permanently in the U.S.

Receive federal benefits, healthcare and education.

Sponsor some of the members of the family in order to enable them to be immigrated.

Pathway to U.S citizenship in 3 years (on condition of still being married to same U.S citizen).

IR6 Processing Times (2025 Update)

By 2025, more digital processing tools have been adopted by USCIS, and therefore average IR6 case times fall within:

Most applications take 8-14 months (local office back logs).

Rapid processing can be used when dealing with humanitarian or urgent family cases.

Caution: The most frequent causes of IR6 Delays or Denials.

Although IR6 is among the less complicated types of Green Card applications, the following pitfalls should be noted by the applicants:

Lost or missing documentation.

Absence of evidence of good faith marriage.

Entering the U.S. unlawfully.

The presence of immigration or visa overstays in the past.

Absence in USCIS interviews.

The effectiveness of the approval should be facilitated by adequate preparation, frank disclosure, and legal counseling.

IR6 The IR6 in the Modern Immigration Landscape (2025 Perspective).

IR6 Green Card is not merely a visa category but it is also a representation of the family unity ideology in the U.S. immigration system.

As the government dedicates more momentum to safe online processing, fraud detection and quicker adjudication, 2025 has simplified the process of genuine applicants reuniting and settling as a pair.

Further, USCIS is improving integration services to IR6 beneficiaries, providing digital immigration profile, renewal notices, and citizenship-prep services through online portals.

What are the most important eligibility steps and documentation needed to qualify for the IR6 Green Card in 2025, and how can applicants avoid common USCIS delays or denials?

 

[Permantly]

🟢 IR6 Green Card Category.

The IR6 group is known as the immediate relative spouse of a U.S. citizen (Adjustment of Status).

It is particularly relevant to people who are already residing in the United States and have a spouse or husband that is a U.S. citizen so that they could change the status of their immigration to that of a lawful permanent resident (Green Card owner) without leaving the country.

In simpler terms:
In case you get married to a U.S. citizen, and you are already within the U.S. (say on a visa or even on a legal entry), your accepted Green Card will have the IR6 code.

IR6 vs. CR6: What’s the Difference?

The greatest area of confusion is between the IR6 and CR6 categories. They both mention that they refer to spouses of U.S citizens, but it all depends on the duration the marriage was at the time of issuing the Green Card.

Category Meaning Validity
IR6 Wife or husband of a U.S citizen, married 2 years or more 10-year Green Card (Permanent)
CR6 Married to U.S. citizen, less than 2 years of marriage 2-year Conditional Green Card.

As a CR6 holder, once he or she reaches the two-year mark, he or she may file to have the conditions removed (Form I-751) and be transitioned to an IR6 classification.

Requirements Eligibility IR6 Category.

In order to be listed under the IR 6 in 2025, there are a number of specific conditions which need to be satisfied by the applicant:

Legal Marriage:
The marriage should be a legally binding one under the U.S. law or foreign law.

Spouse Must Be a U.S. Citizen:
Evidence of the U.S citizenship of the spouse (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate) is necessary.

Proof of Bona Fide Marriage:
The connection should be real - not on immigration grounds. Such facts as shared leases, bank accounts, photos are important.

Lawful Entry into the U.S.:
The applicant should also be a legal entry into the United States (inspected at a port of entry).

No Immigration Violation or Disqualifying Criminals:
The applicants need to be legally behaving and admissible to the U.S. on immigration law.

The IR6 Green Card Process (2025 Steps): How It Works.

The general steps to be taken to apply and receive an IR6 Green Card in 2025 are as follows:

Lodging Form I-130 (Petition of Alien Relatives):
This is filed by the U.S citizen spouse to USCIS to prove the relationship.

Application to Register Permanent Residence: Filing Form I-485.
As the applicant is already in the U.S., this can be applied at the same time as the I-130 (so-called concurrent filing).

Biometrics Appointment:
The applicant is taken through a session of fingerprinting against security and background checks.

Interview:
The USCIS interview takes place before both spouses to confirm the genuineness of their relationship.

Permission and Green Card Issue:
Upon approval, the applicant is issued with a 10-year permanent Green Card that is IR6.

Benefits of an IR6 Green Card

IR6 Green card is a full-fledged permanent residence grant:

Retire permanently in the U.S.

Receive federal benefits, healthcare and education.

Sponsor some of the members of the family in order to enable them to be immigrated.

Pathway to U.S citizenship in 3 years (on condition of still being married to same U.S citizen).

IR6 Processing Times (2025 Update)

By 2025, more digital processing tools have been adopted by USCIS, and therefore average IR6 case times fall within:

Most applications take 8-14 months (local office back logs).

Rapid processing can be used when dealing with humanitarian or urgent family cases.

Caution: The most frequent causes of IR6 Delays or Denials.

Although IR6 is among the less complicated types of Green Card applications, the following pitfalls should be noted by the applicants:

Lost or missing documentation.

Absence of evidence of good faith marriage.

Entering the U.S. unlawfully.

The presence of immigration or visa overstays in the past.

Absence in USCIS interviews.

The effectiveness of the approval should be facilitated by adequate preparation, frank disclosure, and legal counseling.

IR6 The IR6 in the Modern Immigration Landscape (2025 Perspective).

IR6 Green Card is not merely a visa category but it is also a representation of the family unity ideology in the U.S. immigration system.

As the government dedicates more momentum to safe online processing, fraud detection and quicker adjudication, 2025 has simplified the process of genuine applicants reuniting and settling as a pair.

Further, USCIS is improving integration services to IR6 beneficiaries, providing digital immigration profile, renewal notices, and citizenship-prep services through online portals.

How can foreign spouses transitioning to IR6 status prepare for their USCIS interview to ensure smooth approval and avoid suspicion of fraudulent marriage?

 

[Projects1]

How can foreign spouses transitioning to IR6 status prepare for their USCIS interview to ensure smooth approval and avoid suspicion of fraudulent marriage?

1) Understand the purpose of the interview

USCIS wants to confirm your marriage is bona fide (real), not entered solely for immigration benefit. Expect questions about your relationship history, daily life, finances, and future plans. Be honest; inconsistencies matter more than minor memory slips.


2) Paperwork checklist — bring originals + copies

Bring every original document you filed and a few helpful extras. Organize everything in a labeled folder or binder.


Essentials

• Passport(s) and government ID.
• Form I-485 receipt notice and I-130 approval (if issued).
• Marriage certificate (original).
• Birth certificates for both spouses.
• Proof of U.S. spouse’s citizenship (passport, birth certificate, naturalization).
• Form I-94 / proof of lawful entry.
• Photo ID for both (driver’s license, state ID).

Proof of bona fide marriage (examples — bring many)

• Joint lease/mortgage or recent utility bills showing both names.
• Joint bank account statements, joint credit cards, joint tax returns (IRS transcripts or Form 1040).
• Insurance policies naming each other (health, auto, life).
• Joint bills, subscriptions, or official mail showing the same address.
• Photos together over time and with family/friends (include captions with dates/locations).
• Travel itineraries, boarding passes, hotel reservations showing trips together.
• Birth certificates of children (if applicable) or adoption records.
• Affidavits from friends/family (notarized, containing how they know you and examples of your relationship).
• Social evidence: wedding invitations, social media screenshots showing consistent interaction (be selective — preserve privacy).

Other items

• Divorce/death certificates for prior spouses (if applicable).
• Police clearance / court records (if applicable).
• Medical exam report (Form I-693) if USCIS required it.
• Translator or certified interpreter documents if someone will translate for you.

3) Prepare concise, consistent answers (practice together)

• Rehearse common questions with your spouse — but avoid scripting word-for-word. USCIS prefers natural, consistent answers.
• Typical questions:
  • How and when did you meet? Where was your first date?
  • When and where was the wedding? Who attended?
  • Where do you live? Describe your home and daily routine.
  • How many times have you seen each other’s family? Names of in-laws or close relatives?
  • Who pays the bills? How do you manage finances?
  • Do you have joint children? Who takes care of them?
  • What are your spouse’s hobbies, work details, schedule?
  • Plans for the future? (children, living arrangements, career)
• Practice calm, short, truthful answers. If you don’t remember a date, say so and offer to provide documents rather than guessing.

4) Be ready for personal and detailed questions

USCIS officers may ask seemingly small questions (e.g., the color of the kitchen table, spouse’s allergies, favorite restaurants). These are intended to confirm shared life — answer from your real experience. If the officer asks something unfamiliar, it’s fine for one spouse to defer to the other.


5) Organize an evidence summary (one-page cheat sheet for officer)

Create a one-page index that lists your major proofs (joint lease, tax returns, insurance, photos), with page numbers. Handing this to the officer is professional and speeds the review.


6) Interview logistics — practical tips

• Dress neat and respectful (business casual is fine).
• Arrive early; bring copies of everything.
• Bring the original documents and one set of copies for USCIS to keep if requested.
• If you need an interpreter, arrange a certified interpreter and bring ID for the interpreter.
• Mobile phones usually must be off; ask at the security desk if not sure.
• Be polite and cooperative; record-keeping or notes are handled by the officer — do not record the interview yourself unless you ask and they permit it.

7) If you have complicating factors — disclose and document

Complications (prior marriages, prior removals/overstays, criminal records, discrepancies in entry) are common. Don’t hide them — bring supporting documents and an explanation. It’s far better to be transparent with evidence than to be caught in a later inconsistency.


8) If the marriage is short or unusual, bring extra corroboration

If you married recently, long-distance, or have cultural differences (arranged marriage, language gaps), submit strong corroboration: wedding photos, affidavits, chat logs showing history, flight records, or evidence of cultural ceremonies.


9) What to do if the officer asks for additional evidence (RFE)

If the officer asks for more proof, they’ll issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). Respond quickly, thoroughly, and with organized documentation. Use deadlines to prioritize evidence and consider legal help.


10) Avoid these mistakes

• Don’t rehearse scripted answers that sound identical — natural variation shows authenticity.
• Don’t bring unnecessary third parties into the interview unless requested (e.g., crowd of family).
• Don’t lie or omit material facts — misrepresentation can lead to denial and immigration consequences.
• Don’t argue with the officer; if you disagree with a question, provide your answer calmly and note you have documentation.

11) When to hire an immigration attorney

Consider counsel if you have:

• Prior immigration violations (overstays, deportation orders).
• Criminal history or charges.
• Complex divorce/remarriage situations.
• Past denials or RFEs.
• Uncertain admissibility issues (health, public charges).
  An attorney can prepare a declaration, compile evidence, and accompany you to the interview.

12) After the interview — possible outcomes

• Approved: USCIS will notify you and provide timelines for receiving the IR6 Green Card.
• Continued / RFE: You’ll be asked for additional evidence. Provide it quickly and fully.
• Denied: USCIS will explain reasons and appeal options (consult an attorney). In conditional cases (CR6), removal of conditions (Form I-751) will be the next step after two years.

13) Final checklist (day-before & day-of)

• Originals + copies of all documents.
• One-page evidence index.
• Passport, photo ID, I-485/I-130 receipts.
• Proof of lawful entry (I-94).
• Photos and corroborating documents compiled chronologically.
• Interpreter arranged (if needed).
• Attorney on-call (if applicable).
• Calm, honest preparation with spouse for common questions.

 

[Zaxckso]

What are the most important eligibility steps and documentation needed to qualify for the IR6 Green Card in 2025, and how can applicants avoid common USCIS delays or denials?

Step-by-step eligibility & filings (what to do, in order)

1. File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
   • Filed by the U.S. citizen spouse to establish the relationship. Include proof of U.S. citizenship (copy of passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate) and your marriage documents. USCIS
2. File Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence) — concurrent filing if eligible
   • If you are physically present in the U.S., you can usually file I-485 at the same time as I-130 (concurrent filing), which speeds the process. Include required initial evidence per the USCIS I-485 checklist. USCIS+1
3. Submit Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
   • The petitioner must submit Form I-864 to show they meet the income requirement (or use a joint sponsor). Use the most recent poverty guidelines when preparing documentation. USCIS+1
4. Complete the immigration medical exam (Form I-693)
   • Use a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. Note the 2025 rule changes about I-693 validity and submission timing — ensure you follow current USCIS guidance. USCIS+1
5. Attend biometrics & interview
   • USCIS will schedule fingerprinting/biometrics and an interview for both spouses (typical for marriage-based adjustments). Be prepared with organized evidence of your relationship.
6. Address inadmissibility issues if they apply
   • If unlawful presence, certain criminal history, or other grounds apply, you may need a waiver (e.g., provisional unlawful presence waiver I-601A for certain consular cases) — consult counsel early. USCIS

Exact documents USCIS expects (detailed checklist)

Identity & relationship

• Copies of both spouses’ passports and IDs.
• Marriage certificate (official).
• Evidence of bona fide marriage (see below).
• Proof of any prior marriage terminations (divorce decrees, death certificates).

Proof of petitioner’s U.S. status

• U.S. citizen spouse’s birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate.

Immigration status & entry

• Applicant’s I-94 (arrival/departure record), visa pages, and copies of prior immigration documents showing lawful entry.

Financial support

• Form I-864 plus petitioner’s recent federal tax returns (prefer 2–3 years), W-2s or pay stubs, and, if needed, I-864A or a joint sponsor’s I-864.

Medical

• Completed Form I-693 from a designated civil surgeon (follow USCIS guidance on timing and submission). USCIS+1

Criminal / inadmissibility documents

• Certified court records, police reports, and disposition documents if any arrests/charges exist. Consult an attorney about disclosure and waiver needs.

Optional but helpful

• Photographs together across time, joint leases/mortgage, shared bank accounts, insurance policies, affidavits from friends/family, joint tax returns, children’s birth certificates, travel itineraries showing joint trips.

Organize everything in a clear binder or PDF with a table of contents and tabs — it makes an RFE less likely to cause confusion.


What proves a bona-fide marriage (what USCIS commonly asks for)

USCIS looks for a combination of objective evidence showing you live a life together. Strong examples:

• Joint bank account statements, joint mortgage/lease, joint insurance policies (health/home/auto), utility bills with both names.
• Photos together (travel, family events), correspondence addressed to both spouses, affidavits from third parties who know you as a couple.
• Joint tax returns (filed as married), joint children’s birth certificates, proof you share household expenses.

A mix of these documents across time is better than many documents from a single date. If most evidence is electronic (e.g., Venmo, bank apps), print and annotate where helpful.


Common reasons for delays & denials — and how to avoid them

1. Insufficient proof of bona-fide marriage
   • Avoidance: Provide diverse, dated evidence (financial, social, residential). Prepare a short cover letter explaining the timeline of your relationship and attach a sworn joint statement.
2. Incomplete or incorrect forms
   • Avoidance: Fill forms carefully, double-check signatures, include required fees and supporting documents. Use USCIS checklists. Small omissions commonly trigger RFEs or rejections. USCIS
3. Medical form errors or timing issues (I-693)
   • Avoidance: Use a designated civil surgeon and follow USCIS timing and submission rules; recent policy changes affect I-693 validity — ensure your form is dated and submitted per guidance. USCIS+1
4. Financial inadequacy (I-864 problems)
   • Avoidance: Prepare complete tax records, consider a joint sponsor if income is below the poverty guideline, and use the current I-864P for poverty guidelines. USCIS
5. Prior immigration violations or inadmissibility
   • Avoidance: Disclose honestly. If you have unlawful presence or other issues, consult counsel early about waivers (I-601/I-601A) and timing. Hiding facts usually causes denial. USCIS
6. Criminal records or security concerns
   • Avoidance: Provide certified court records and dispositions; speak with counsel about possible waivers or defenses.
7. Missed biometrics or interview appointments
   • Avoidance: Attend all appointments on time; reschedule properly if unavoidable and keep proof of reasons (e.g., medical).
8. Slow or missing responses to RFEs
   • Avoidance: Respond promptly with well-organized evidence (and a cover sheet referencing the exact request). Late or incomplete RFE responses lengthen processing or cause denials.

Interview prep — practical tips that reduce suspicion

• Bring originals of every document you submitted (IDs, passports, marriage certificate, joint documents).
• Be consistent: practice answering core questions briefly and truthfully (where you met, where you live, shared finances, wedding details). Conflicting answers raise flags.
• If language barriers exist, bring an interpreter approved per USCIS rules.
• Bring a one-page relationship timeline: key dates (met, engaged, married, moved in, major trips) and supporting evidence pages.

Timing & expediting

• Typical IR6 I-485 timelines vary by office; many cases complete in ~8–14 months depending on local backlog and whether RFEs are issued. (Concurrent filing helps shorten waits.) USCIS+1
• Expedite requests are rare and granted only for urgent humanitarian, severe financial loss, or similar compelling reasons — include strong documentation if you file one.

If things go wrong: denials, RFEs, or requests for waivers

• RFE: Treat as an opportunity — answer exactly what is asked, with clear, labeled evidence.
• Denial: You may have appeal options (motion to reopen/reconsider or filing anew) — consult an immigration attorney immediately. Jeelani Law Firm, PLC
• Waivers: If inadmissible for unlawful presence or other grounds, investigate I-601/I-601A or other waivers early — they require strong hardship evidence and take time. USCIS+1

Practical sanity checklist to submit a rock-solid packet

• I-130 complete + proof of U.S. citizen spouse status.
• I-485 complete (or concurrent filing) + I-485 initial evidence per USCIS checklist. USCIS
• I-864 Affidavit of Support + tax returns/W-2s (2–3 years recommended). USCIS
• I-693 medical exam by designated civil surgeon (timing per USCIS guidance). USCIS+1
• Passport photos, I-94 copy, and copies of all passports/visa pages.
• Compelling, diversified evidence of bona-fide marriage (financial, residential, social).
• Certified court/police records if applicable.
• Organized binder/PDF with table of contents, labeled exhibits, and a short cover letter explaining the submission.
• Prepare originals for interview.

Final tips

• Be honest and thorough. Missing facts or evasions are the fastest route to RFEs and denials.
• Document early: start gathering joint financials and evidence long before you file — it’s much easier to collect while things are fresh.
• Use an immigration attorney if your case has complications (prior overstays, criminal history, previous removals, or unusual facts).
• Keep copies of every filing and send everything via trackable mail when you must mail documents.