US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) utilizes several different Form I-797 notices to notify applicants and petitioners of actions taken on their cases. We discuss what the different USCIS Form I797s mean here.
What is a USCIS Form I-797 Notice?
A USCIS Form I-797 Notice is an official communication from USCIS to an application or petitioner to inform them of an action taken on their case. You should file away and keep a record of all I-797 Notices that you receive from USCIS.
What does Form I-797, Notice of Action mean?
An I-797, Notice of Action is issued by USCIS to indicate the receipt or approval of an application or petition. Depending on the case type, Form I-797 can include the following case details:
- Receipt Number
- Received Date
- Notice Date
- Priority Date
- Case Type
- Petitioner
- Beneficiary
- USCIS Alien Number
- Preference Classification
It is important to verify all the information on the I-797, Notice of Action for accuracy. You should contact USCIS immediately if the I-797, Notice of Action contains inaccurate information.
What does a Form I-797A, Notice of Action mean?
A Form I-797A, Notice of Action contains a replacement Form I-94. Form I-94 is located at the bottom of Form I-797A, Notice of Action and is proof of valid immigration status.
What does a Form I-797B, Notice of Action mean?
A Form I-797B, Notice of Action is issued upon approval of a non-immigrant visa petition. Depending on your citizenship, Form I-797B is used to obtain a visa or for entry into the US at a port of entry.
What does a Form I-797C, Notice of Action mean?
A Form I-797C, Notice of Action can be issued by USCIS to notify the applicant or petitioner of:
- Case receipt
- Case rejection
- Case transfer
- Fingerprint and Biometrics appointment
- USCIS Interview Notice
- Reschedule of appointment
- Re-opening of cases
What does a Form I-797D mean?
A Form I-797D is issued by USCIS to indicate the approval of benefits cards, e.g., employment authorization document (EAD).
What does a Form I-797E, Notice of Action mean?
A Form I-797E, Notice of Action is issued by USCIS to request evidence.
What does a Form I-797F, Transportation Letter?
A Form I-797F, Transportation Letter is issued overseas to allow applicants to travel.
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