Form I-360: What it is, what it’s for, and how to complete it

The Form I-360 is a crucial document in the U.S. immigration process . It is designed for individuals seeking to obtain immigrant status through specific family relationships or certain special categories.

In this guide, Jaskot Law will go into all the details about the Form I-360, how it works, who can file it, the benefits it provides, among other important aspects. Read on and understand the relevance of this immigration document!

What is Form I-360?

The Form I-360, known as the Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, is a vital document in the U.S. immigration system. It is used in specific cases, such as for abused spouses of U.S. citizens or victims of human trafficking.

Filing the I-360 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows applicants to seek immigrant status and access benefits such as employment authorization and the ability to apply for permanent residency in the United States.

This form must be completed thoroughly and submitted along with the required documentation to demonstrate eligibility. Once approved by the USCIS, it opens the door for applicants to build a future in the United States, offering the possibility of a more secure and stable life in the country.

Eligibility to file Form I-360

Form I-360 is a petition for various immigrant groups who wish to qualify for an immigrant visa in the United States. The following are some of the categories of individuals who are eligible to complete and file this form:

1. Widows or widowers of U.S. citizens: If the U.S. citizen spouse is deceased and the marriage lasted at least two years prior to death, the widow or widower may be eligible.

2. Amerasians: Individuals born in Asia, children of a U.S. citizen and an Asian mother during a specific period, usually associated with the U.S. military presence in certain regions of Asia, such as Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

3. Special Immigrants: It includes a variety of groups, such as certain employees or former employees of the U.S. government abroad, employees of international organizations, religious ministers, certain religious workers, and others.

4. Victims of Abuse (VAWA): Certain spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who have been victims of abuse and can self-petition without the abuser’s knowledge.

5. Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJS): Children who have been declared dependents of the court due to abuse, neglect or maltreatment by one or both parents, and for whom return to their country of origin is not feasible.

6. Religious workers: Ministers and non-ministerial religious workers who wish to immigrate to the United States to work in their religious vocation or profession.

For each category, there are specific requirements and evidence that must be submitted with the petition. It is important that applicants review the instructions and current immigration laws. Contact Jaskot Law to make sure you meet the eligibility criteria before you apply.

Requirements for Filing Form I-360

As with any immigration document to be filed during an adjustment of status process, such as a special immigrant juvenile status (SIJS), certain requirements must be met in order to file Form I-360. Detailed information is presented below:

Qualifying Family Relationship

Before filing Form I-360, it is essential to ensure that you have a qualifying family relationship with the applicant. Qualifying family relationships include the following:

• Battered spouses
  
• Abused children
  
• Widows and widowers of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.

2. Documentary Evidence

A critical part of the Form I-360 application process is to provide convincing documentary evidence to support the qualifying family relationship. Below is a detailed list of the documents that may be required, depending on the application category:

Battered spouses Marriage certificates showing relationship to U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse. Medical reports documenting injury or physical abuse. Witness letters or affidavits from persons witnessing the abuse.

Abused children Birth certificates establishing the relationship to the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident parent. School or medical reports indicating signs of abuse or trauma. Affidavits from teachers, doctors or other professionals who can attest to the abuse.

Widowers Death certificate of the deceased spouse. Marriage certificate showing relationship to the deceased spouse. Evidence of the spousal relationship, such as photographs or joint financial records.

Completing Form I-360 and gathering the proper documentation may seem overwhelming, but with quality legal guidance, the process will be less stressful. Jaskot Law understands the importance of including supporting documents and will guide you to a positive outcome.

What are the benefits of the valuable resource that is the Form I-360?

Filing Form I-360 and getting it approved can have a significant impact on the lives of those interested in adjusting status. Specific benefits of filing and obtaining approval of this resource include:

Legal Protection	Approval of Form I-360 provides legal protection against deportation. This provides applicants with security and stability in the United States.
Access to social benefits	Beneficiaries can access social assistance programs and medical services, improving their quality of life.
Employment authorization	Once approved, applicants may request a work permit, through which they can legally work in the country.
Family reunification	Beneficiaries can apply for family reunification, which allows their immediate family members to join them in the United States.
Route to permanent residence	Approval of Form I-360 is a step toward obtaining permanent resident status, which leads to U.S. citizenship in the future.

This resource not only offers legal protection and stability, but it also provides the opportunity to build a better future in the United States. If you need assistance in completing this form, please do not hesitate to request the assistance of Jaskot Law.

How can you complete and file Form I-360?

If you are planning to submit the USCIS Form I-360, it is crucial that you complete it thoroughly to avoid delays or rejections of your application. Here are the steps to follow to complete it:

• Step 1 – Download the Form from the USCIS website and carefully read the instructions to understand the eligibility requirements and supporting documents needed for your specific category.

• Step 2 – Provide your personal information, such as your name, address and date of birth.

• Step 3 – Indicate the category to which you are applying and attach any relevant supporting documents.

• Step 4 – Detail your current immigration status and any previous immigration history.

• Step 5 – Answer all questions honestly and accurately, and provide any additional information requested.

• Step 6 – Sign and date the Form, and include the appropriate filing fee or request a fee waiver, if applicable.

• Step 7 – Submit the completed form to the nearest USCIS service center.

Remember to carefully review your answers and attach all necessary documents along with your application. If you have any questions about any aspect of the process, contact our immigration attorneys, and they will provide you with the help you need.

Helpful Tips for Filing Form I-360

Since the form must be submitted as accurately and with as much information as possible, it is important to take into account some aspects prior to its submission. Here are some useful tips:

Tip 1: Read the instructions carefully Before you begin filling out the form, be sure to read all instructions provided by USCIS to understand the specific eligibility requirements and how to properly complete the form.

Tip 2: Complete the form accurately Complete each section of the form with accurate and current information. Any errors or inaccuracies may result in delays or denial of the request.

Tip 3: Provide supporting evidence Along with the form, all necessary supporting documentation must be provided to demonstrate eligibility for the requested classification. This may include, but is not limited to, birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of abuse (if applicable), etc.

Tip 4: Translate documents All documents in a language other than English must be translated by a certified translator. Be sure to include both the translation and a copy of the original document.

Tip 5: Sign the form Do not forget to sign the form. An unsigned petition will be rejected. If you are filing the form on behalf of someone, make sure you have the legal authority to do so.

Tip 6: Maintain a copy of records Keep copies of everything you send to the USCIS, including the completed Form I-360, proofs and payment receipts. This will be useful for future reference or in case problems arise with your application.

Tip 7: Use the correct address for shipment Be sure to send your application to the correct address as instructed by USCIS. The address may vary depending on the immigration category under which you are applying.

Remember that these tips are general and the process, forms and requirements may vary. It is important to always verify that you are using the most recent version of the form and following the current instructions when submitting your application. If you need help, the team at Jaskot Law can guide you.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding what Form I-360 is, how it works, and how to complete it is essential for those seeking safety and security in the United States. By providing accurate and detailed information, backed by solid evidence, you can increase your chances of success.

This process can be overwhelming and require a great deal of effort on the part of the petitioners to obtain immigration benefits under this category. Don’t worry, at Jaskot Law, our qualified immigration lawyers have what it takes to answer all your questions and help you achieve your goals.

Sources

USCIS

Form I-360

Form from the USCIS website

Frequently Asked Questions