USCIS Form I-566

Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request, is a critical document within U.S. immigration processes, primarily involving individuals with A, G, or NATO visa classifications. It serves several functions:

• It allows eligible dependents of A, G, or NATO nonimmigrants to request employment authorization.
• It is used by A, G, or NATO nonimmigrants to seek a change to another nonimmigrant status.

Key Facts:

• Validity: It is valid as long as the form’s edition is not expired. For the current date, the expiry is set for 12/31/2023.

How it works:

A complete submission of Form I-566 requires accurate identification of both the applicant and the principal nonimmigrant. The form streamlines the adjudication of several immigration benefits, including but not limited to:

1. Requests for employment authorization
2. Changes or adjustments of status

Agencies such as the USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) utilize Form I-566 for validation purposes, confirming authorization of the individual’s stay or work eligibility in the U.S.

It’s important for legal representatives, if any, to be identified in the form through completion of an Attorney State Bar Number or USCIS Online Account Number, especially if Form G-28 is attached.

In essence, Form I-566 facilitates communication between varying entities to manage immigration benefits efficiently for diplomats, international organization employees, and NATO personnel, including their dependents—strengthening the integrity of employment authorization and status adjustment applications.

Form I-566 is a critical document for certain nonimmigrants in the United States who are seeking employment authorization or looking to change or adjust their status.

Eligible Nonimmigrants

Nonimmigrants holding diplomatic or international organization-related visa classifications are typically eligible to file Form I-566. This includes individuals with A-1, A-2, G-1, G-3, G-4, or NATO 1-6 visas. They must be officially recognized by the United States government and possess a valid reason for requesting an employment authorization document or a change of status.

Dependent Status Requirements

Dependents of the eligible nonimmigrants are also required to use Form I-566 under certain conditions. Dependents seeking employment authorization should have a status derivative of the primary visa holder, which could be categorized as A-1, A-2, G-1, G-3, G-4, or NATO 1-6 dependent status. The relationship to the principal visa holder is verified to establish eligibility.

The application process for Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request, requires careful attention to documentation, adherence to specific filing instructions, and an understanding of the associated processing times and fees.

Documentation Needed

Applicants must provide the following documentation:

• Form I-566: Fully completed and signed.
• Form I-539: If requesting a change of nonimmigrant status.
• Form I-94: Arrival-Departure Record.
• Passport: Valid passport of the applicant.
• A diplomatic note from the respective government or international organization, outlining the status.

Filing Instructions

To file Form I-566, an applicant should:

1. Complete the form, ensuring all required fields are filled accurately.
2. Attach the Form G-28 if represented by an attorney.
3. Submit all required documentation, as failure to do so may result in delays.

Processing Time and Fees

• Processing Time: Varies depending on individual circumstances and current workloads.
• Fees:
  • Form I-566: $120
  • Each dependent: An additional $25 fee.

Applicants may request a fee waiver or reduction where applicable, subject to approval by the immigration authorities.

Form I-566 serves as a crucial document for certain nonimmigrants and their dependents seeking to unlock specific immigration-related benefits in the United States.

Employment Authorization

Approved Form I-566 facilitates employment authorization for dependents of A, G, or NATO nonimmigrants. This authorization allows individuals to legally seek and undertake employment in the U.S., providing financial autonomy and the opportunity to gain professional experience.

Government Agency Endorsement

Form I-566 ensures endorsement from relevant government agencies, including the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Defense. This endorsement is essential for adjusting immigration status and accessing various immigration benefits, thereby allowing a smoother transition for individuals adapting to new assignments or changing status.

Proper use of Form I-566 is crucial for nonimmigrants under A, G, or NATO visas to maintain lawful status in the United States. It involves compliance with reporting requirements and accurate processing of status adjustments.

Reporting Requirements

Individuals holding A, G, or NATO visas and their eligible dependents are required to report certain changes to the U.S. government. Such changes may include but are not limited to:

• Employment changes: Start or end of employment, including part-time or full-time status.
• Address changes: Moving to a new residence within the United States.
• Changes in dependents: The addition or removal of dependents under the visa holder’s status.

Reporting these changes is typically done through the submission of Form I-566, ensuring that records with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of State remain up-to-date and accurate.

Status Adjustments

When A, G, or NATO visa holders seek to adjust their status, whether for employment authorization or a change to another nonimmigrant status, Form I-566 comes into play. It is vital to:

• Submit accurate information: All details provided on Form I-566 must reflect current and precise information regarding the nonimmigrant’s status and their dependents.
• Fulfill separate filing requirements: Each person requiring employment authorization or an adjustment of status must file a separate Form I-566.

Status adjustments are closely scrutinized, and adherence to these procedures helps to maintain lawful status within the United States.

Form I-566 is instrumental for A, G, or NATO nonimmigrants and eligible dependents who seek to extend their stay or shift to another nonimmigrant status. This form serves as the Interagency Record of Request, central to the adjudication process by various governmental entities.

Criteria for Extension

For an extension of status, the individual must be a nonimmigrant in A, G, or NATO classification. Eligible dependents of these nonimmigrants can use Form I-566 to extend their authorized stay. The primary criteria include ensuring their nonimmigrant status is still valid and that the extension application is filed before its expiration.

Change of Status Procedure

The procedure for changing nonimmigrant status involves the submission of Form I-566 to streamline the communication between agencies. The individual must:

1. Complete the form accurately,
2. Submit it to the appropriate U.S. Department of State office or other designated authority, and
3. Await confirmation of the request before any status change takes effect to remain in compliance.

When engaging in international travel, individuals with Form I-566 should be aware of specific procedures to ensure their re-entry to the United States and understand the implications that travel may have on their Form I-566 processing.

Re-entry Procedures

Form I-566 holders must ensure they have all necessary documents for re-entry into the United States. This includes a valid passport, their Form I-566, and in some cases, an employment authorization document (EAD). It is recommended to also carry copies of any communications with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), especially concerning the status of Form I-566.

Effects on Form I-566

Travel can affect Form I-566 processing times and status. For instance, if someone exits the United States during the processing of Form I-566 for employment authorization or status change, it could potentially delay the process. Moreover, they may need to take specific steps upon return, such as updating their address with USCIS or ensuring that their request has not been negatively impacted due to their absence.

Processing Form I-566 can encounter specific setbacks, such as delays and errors in the application. Knowing how to navigate these issues effectively is essential for a smooth process.

Handling Delays

Delays in the processing of Form I-566 are not uncommon. Applicants can mitigate these delays by:

• Checking Processing Times: Regularly reviewing the current processing times provided by the USCIS can set realistic expectations.
• Following Up: If the processing time exceeds the typical duration, applicants may contact USCIS or the relevant agency to inquire about the status of their application.

Correcting Errors

Errors on Form I-566 can significantly hinder an applicant’s process. To address mistakes:

• Prompt Action: As soon as an error is discovered, it is imperative to take immediate action to correct it.
• Proper Procedures: Applicants must follow the USCIS’s recommended procedure for correcting errors. Typically, this involves submitting the correct information with a clear indication of the changes made.

When completing or requiring assistance with Form I-566, it is essential to know the correct agency to contact and available legal assistance options to ensure accurate and timely support.

Agency Contact Information

For inquiries and support related to Form I-566, individuals may contact the USCIS Contact Center. The Customer Service Representatives offer guidance on form-related questions.

• Telephone: 1-800-375-5283
• TTY: 1-800-767-1833 (for deaf or hard of hearing)

Legal Assistance Options

Individuals may seek legal advice from attorneys or accredited representatives. Legal practitioners can provide assistance with the completion and submission of Form I-566.

• Attorney Representation: Ensure the attorney is in good standing with the state bar.
• Accredited Representative: Check that they are approved to practice by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).