# 4 Common Mistakes On Immigration Applications and Petitions

- Link: https://www.lumlawgroup.com/4-common-mistakes-on-immigration-applications-and-petitions/
- Published: 2020-01-24T08:08:38-08:00
- Author: Albert J Lum

Immigration clients often come to us with botched cases. Either they tried to do
it themselves and failed, or they hired a less-than-reliable paralegal office that
mishandled their case. Some mistakes are made even in our care. Here are the four
most common immigration application/petition mistakes we hope you’ll avoid.

### Submitting an incomplete or erroneous application/petition

Clients often rush through the forms, and by mistake leave out a detail from a decade
or two ago. Our office, like any office, can only help you ensure your form is filled
out completely and matches the information you provided us. We do not know if you
had a DUI 20 years ago. We do not know if you have a criminal record that was expunged
15 years ago. These are facts that we may be able to verify and obtain records to
support your case, but without a client request we would not think to look for it.

It is the client’s responsibility to think through their past and ensure the forms
reflect complete and accurate data.

### Failing to pay the complete and exact fee

Often clients will write a check for the wrong amount, such as in the case when 
the application fee has recently changed. Sometimes clients fail to account for 
biometrics fees (finger prints for background check), and other times they expect
to pay fees separately when they should all be submitted at once.  We have even 
clients whose applications were significantly delayed because they did not have 
enough funds in their bank account when the funds were cashed. Don’t be like them;
check the fees and use a credit card, money order, or savings account to pay your
immigration application or petition fees.

### Failing to submit sufficient evidence

If only we had a nickel for every client who hired us after they received their 
Request for Evidence (RFE). It’s very common for clients to follow generic checklists
they found online, or the advice of a friend or an acquaintance who did it themselves
without considering their individual cases. Based on your individual circumstances,
your application or petition may require different supporting documents or additional
evidence.  Immigration used to always request that information from you after you
file using an RFE. [Nowadays it is not guaranteed.](https://lumlawgroup.com/Staging/what-immigrations-new-policy-on-requests-for-evidence-and-notice-of-intent-to-deny-mean-for-you/)

### Failing to respond to a request for evidence or additional information by the deadline

Clients can still receive a request for additional documentation at the interview.
An immigration officer may determine after speaking with you that they need more
data. They will set a deadline and you will have to produce that information either
in person or by mail before the deadline.  If you miss the deadline, your case will
likely be denied.

While everyone makes mistakes, don’t let your mistake delay your immigrant or non-
immigrant status.  [Talk to an experienced immigration today](https://lumlawgroup.com/Staging/schedule-an-initial-consultation-with-albert-lum-esq/)
about how we can help you avoid delay!