All You Need to Know About Form I-102

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Form I-102, including essential steps, filing tips, and the importance of document translation.

Form I-102 Explained

Form I-102, officially titled "Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document," is an important document for nonimmigrants who need to replace or apply for a new Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95. These forms serve as proof of lawful admission and are often required for various legal, immigration, and personal purposes. Understanding the purpose, filing process, and required documentation for Form I-102 is essential to ensure a smooth application process.

Form I-102 is used in the following situations:

• Replace a lost, stolen, or mutilated Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95.

• Correcting errors on previously issued forms due to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) mistakes.

• Obtaining an initial Form I-94 if one was not issued upon entry to the United States.

Who Should File Form I-102?

You should consider filing Form I-102 if you:

- Lost or Stolen Documents: If your Form I-94, I-94W, or I-95 has been misplaced or stolen, you can file Form I-102 for a replacement.

- Damaged or Mutilated Forms: For forms that have become illegible or destroyed, Form I-102 allows you to request a new copy.

- Errors Made by USCIS: If your form contains mistakes made by USCIS (such as an incorrect name or date), you can use Form I-102 to correct these errors.

- No Form Issued at Entry: Sometimes, nonimmigrants entering the U.S. do not receive a Form I-94 or I-94W. In such cases, Form I-102 can be used to obtain an initial copy.

- Note: If your Form I-94 was issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and contains errors, you’ll need to visit a CBP port of entry or deferred inspection office for correction instead of filing Form I-102.

How to File Form I-102

Filing Form I-102 involves several steps. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Download and Complete the Form

Visit the USCIS website to download the latest edition of Form I-102.

Fill out the form carefully:

- Part 1: Provide personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and U.S. address.

- Part 2: State the reason for your application, choosing the appropriate box.

- Part 3: Include details about your immigration history, such as the class of admission and date of last entry.

- Part 4: Sign and date the form. Unsigned forms will be rejected.

2. Prepare Supporting Documents

You’ll need to provide evidence supporting your application. Examples include:

• A copy of the biographic page of your passport.

• Evidence explaining why you need a replacement (e.g., a police report for a stolen document or a damaged form for replacement requests).

• A letter detailing the error and requesting correction if USCIS made a mistake.

3. Pay the Filing Fee

The filing fee is non-refundable and varies depending on the nature of your request. Payment options include:

• Personal check

• Money order

• Credit or debit card (via Form G-1450)

4. File the Form

Send your completed form and supporting documents to the USCIS lockbox address specified in the instructions. Filing addresses can vary, so double-check the official USCIS filing location.

Tips for Successful Filing

- Complete All Sections: USCIS will reject your application if required fields are left blank.

- Check for Consistency: Ensure your name, birthdate, and other personal details match across all documents.

- Sign the Form: An unsigned form will be rejected.

- Double-Check the Filing Fee: Use the USCIS Fee Calculator to confirm the correct fee.

- Keep Copies: Retain copies of all submitted documents for your records.

Translation Requirements for Form I-102

If your supporting documents are in a foreign language, USCIS requires certified translations. This ensures immigration officers can accurately review and understand your documents.

Why Translations Matter

Translated documents are essential for verifying:

• Personal identity (e.g., passports or visas).

• Entry details (e.g., stamps or permits).

• Supporting information like police reports or birth certificates.

Common Documents Needing Translation

• Passports and visas

• Entry/exit stamps

• Civil documents, including marriage or divorce certificates

• Police reports for stolen documents

 How to Get Translations Done Right

USCIS requires a complete English translation and a translator’s certification stating the translation is accurate and that the translator is competent in both languages.

Documents Checklist for Form I-102

When filing Form I-102, you’ll need to include the following:

- Passport Biographic Page: A clear copy showing your personal details and photo.

- Proof of Admission: Any document showing your admission details, such as a visa stamp or airline ticket.

- Proof of Error or Loss: Police reports, damaged forms, or written explanations.

- Translator’s Certification: If your documents are not in English.

Why Use Professional Translation Services?

A professional translation service ensures:

• Compliance with USCIS standards.

• Quick turnaround times (often within 12 hours).

• Accuracy and attention to cultural nuances.

Services like MotaWord offer certified translations in 110+ languages, tailored for immigration purposes. Our expertise minimizes errors and helps prevent delays in processing.

Final Thoughts

Form I-102 is an essential tool for nonimmigrants who need to replace or correct arrival-departure records. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can avoid delays and ensure your application is processed smoothly.

Accurate translations play a critical role in the success of your application. If you need help translating your documents, consider trusted services like MotaWord for certified and fast results.

Start your application today with confidence and ensure every detail is correct. For translation needs, get an instant quote and make the process stress-free.