No More Duplicate Copies Required for Form I-129 Petitions

In a significant move towards more efficient processing, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a change that impacts the submission of Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. As of August 11, 2022, the requirement to provide duplicate copies of Form I-129 and its supporting documentation has been lifted, except when explicitly requested by USCIS.

The rationale behind this change is twofold: the utilization of enhanced electronic scanning technology and the establishment of streamlined data-sharing with the U.S. Department of State. These advancements allow USCIS to achieve more accurate and prompt processing without the need for duplicate documentation.

This update holds potential benefits for both petitioners and USCIS. Petitioners can anticipate a reduction in the administrative burden of preparing and submitting duplicate sets of forms and supporting materials. USCIS, on the other hand, can utilize its resources more effectively by focusing on accurate electronic processing and collaboration with the U.S. Department of State.

However, it’s important to note that while duplicate copies are no longer mandatory for most cases, there might be instances where USCIS specifically requests them. In such situations, adhering to the requested guidelines remains crucial to ensure a smooth processing experience.

The USCIS’s decision to eliminate the requirement for duplicate copies of Form I-129 and supporting documentation is a step forward in streamlining the immigration petition process. The integration of modern technology and data-sharing mechanisms reflects USCIS’s commitment to improving efficiency and accuracy, ultimately benefiting petitioners and the overall immigration system. For the latest updates and specifics on the submission process, always refer to the official USCIS guidelines and resources.

Find Form I-129 on the USCIS website.