Will My Green Card Application Be Denied? Mistakes to Avoid

After months or even years of gathering documents and preparing forms, you’re finally ready to submit your green card application. Visions of gaining permanent U.S. residency fill you with hope and excitement.

But soon, those feelings turn into worry and stress. You can’t stop thinking: what if my application gets denied?

Unfortunately, simple mistakes can sink your green card petition. In fiscal year 2021, nearly 10% of employment-based green card applications were denied by USCIS.

Don’t let a preventable error ruin your dreams of living in America. This guide covers the top 7 green card application mistakes to avoid.

We’re an award-winning law firm with 50+ years of experience in immigration law. Talk to a top San Diego immigration attorney today at Feldman Feldman & Associates PC by calling 1-619-299-9600. We help clients throughout all 50 United States and all foreign countries. 

Failing to Choose the Right Category

The first step is making sure you apply under an eligible green card category. Submitting under the wrong category is grounds for instant denial.

Review the requirements carefully for employment-based, family-sponsored, refugee, diversity visa, or special immigrant categories. Consult an attorney if you are unsure which category fits your situation.

Providing evidence that does not match your claimed category is one of the most common reasons applications get denied.

Submitting Incomplete Forms

Another quick way to have your green card petition rejected is leaving any sections blank on the application forms or missing a required form entirely.

Even if you feel a question doesn’t apply to you, you may need to write “N/A” rather than leaving it empty. Missing information signals the applicant did not take sufficient care completing the paperwork.

Triple-check every field before submitting forms like the I-485 and I-130 to ensure they are error-free and fully completed.

Forgetting to Include Necessary Documents

Each green card category has required supporting documents to prove eligibility.

Unfortunately, many applicants make the mistake of overlooking essential evidence like:

• Employment records

• Maintenance of Status documentation

• Tax returns

• Marriage certificates

• Birth certificates

• Passports

• Police certificates

Without all required documents, USCIS will not be able to verify your claims or approve your permanent residency.

Making an Error in Your Paperwork

Typos, incorrect dates, misspellings – small paperwork errors can have big consequences.

For example, if your name on an application form does not exactly match your passport, it raises red flags about your identity and validity of documents.

Carefully review each application and document before submitting to catch any mistakes. An immigration attorney can provide an extra level of quality control when completing your paperwork.

Providing Insufficient Financial Evidence

Applicants must prove they will not become a public charge, or financial burden on the U.S. There are different requirements for a family based petition nad an employment based petition.

Submitting weak or missing financial documentation is a frequent reason for denial. Be sure to include full bank account records, investment statements, tax returns, and employer letters verifying your income.

Omitting an Essential Signature

Remember to sign and date every application form and petition letter before submitting. Missing signatures make the documents invalid in the eyes of USCIS.

Also, ensure any relative or employer petitioning on your behalf has signed their sections of the paperwork as well. One unsigned form could result in a denial.

Retaining the Wrong Attorney

An incompetent, inexperienced or unqualified lawyer can ruin your case through errors like:

• Missing deadlines

• Submitting incorrect forms

• Neglecting to prepare you for interviews

Vet any attorney thoroughly and look for proven experience with immigration cases like yours. Avoid attorneys offering discounted bargain prices at the expense of quality.

Green Card Denied – Talk to The Best Immigration Lawyer for You

A denied green card application can even lead to charges of misrepresentation, fraud, deportation and even permanently bar you from U.S. residence. Protect your eligibility through diligent preparation, high attention to detail, and guidance from an expert immigration attorney.

While the process may seem daunting, taking proactive steps will empower you to submit a bulletproof petition and achieve your American dream.

We’re an award-winning law firm with 50+ years of experience in immigration law. Talk to a top San Diego immigration attorney today at Feldman Feldman & Associates PC by calling 1-619-299-9600. We help clients throughout all 50 united states and other countries. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Card Denials

1. What are my options if my green card was denied?

You can file an appeal within 33 days to reopen your case if you have sufficient grounds. Or you can attempt to reapply by correcting any deficiencies.

2. Can I reapply immediately if my petition was denied?

If denied for technical reasons like incomplete forms, you may be able to reapply immediately. But any denial for misrepresentation or fraud should be discussed with an immigration attorney first.

3. How long does USCIS have to make a decision on a green card application?

There is no formal timeline, but most employment-based applications see decisions 9-18 months after filing. More complex cases can take over 2 years.

4. Can my green card approval be revoked if I made a mistake?

Yes, USCIS can revoke approval and deport you if they later discover an error, fraud, or ineligibility.

5. What percentage of green card applications are denied each year?

In fiscal year 2021, the green card denial rate was around 10% for employment-based applications and 6% for family-sponsored applications. The rates are simlar for 2023.