USCIS Cover Letter Samples: A Complete Guide (2024)

USCIS Cover Letter Samples | Tips for Writing a Letter | What to Include in a Letter

Form I-90 | Form I-129F | Form I-130 | Form I-131 | Form I-485 | Form I-751 | Form I-765 | Form I-821D | Form N-400 | Form N-565 | Form N-600

A cover letter is an overview document that gives the USCIS officer a quick summary of what to expect in the application package. Generally, it should include an outline of the contents. In some cases, it may be a good way to communicate any special circ*mstances that you have.

Use each sample USCIS cover letter as an example only. You’ll need to customize it to fit your own specific situation. Although supporting documents listed in the letter may be representative of a typical case, you may need different evidence based on the way you prepared the USCIS form. Use CitizenPath to get step-by-step instructions and a checklist of supporting documents.

Green Card Renewal: Start with this I-90 cover letter template when you are filing Form I-90 to renew a green card. Refer to the sample as an example.

Green Card Replacement (Lost/Stolen): If your green card was lost or stolen, you may use this USCIS cover letter template when filing Form I-90. Refer to the sample as an example.

Green Card Replacement (Name Change): Start with this I-90 cover letter template if the primary reason for your green card replacement is a legal name change. Refer to the sample as an example.

K-1 Visa Petition: Customize this USCIS cover letter template if you are filing Form I-129F to petition a fiancé for a K-1 visa. Refer to the sample as an example.

Immigrant Visa Petition for a Spouse: Start with this I-130 cover letter template when you are filing Form I-130 to petition a spouse for a green card. Refer to the sample as an example.

Immigrant Visa Petition for Other Relative: If your beneficiary is a relative other than a spouse, use this I-130 cover letter. Refer to the sample as an example.

Advance Parole Application: Use this USCIS cover letter template when you are filing Form I-131 to request an advance parole travel document. Refer to the sample as an example and tailor it to your specific needs.

Reentry Permit Application: Use this I-131 cover letter template if you are a permanent resident applying for a reentry permit. Refer to the sample as an example.

Adjustment of Status with Concurrently Filed I-130: Use this I-485 cover letter template when you are filing Form I-130 concurrently with Form I-485. Refer to the sample as an example.

Adjustment of Status as K-1 Entrant: Use this I-485 cover letter template when you entered with a K-1 visa and are adjusting based on marriage to your U.S. citizen spouse. Refer to the sample as an example.

Filing Joint Petition to Remove Conditions: Start with this USCIS cover letter template when you are filing Form I-751 jointly with your spouse. Refer to the sample as an example and make changes as necessary.

Apply for EAD based on Adjustment of Status: Use this I-765 cover letter template when you are filing the application to request employment authorization based on a pending Form I-485. Refer to the sample as an example.

DACA Renewal: Start with this USCIS cover letter template when you are filing Form I-821D to request of renewal of an inital DACA grant. Refer to the sample as an example and make changes as necessary.

Naturalization based on Standard Requirements: Use this N-400 cover letter template when you are naturalizing after 5 years as a permanent resident. Refer to the sample as an example.

Naturalization based on Marriage to U.S. Citizen: Start with this cover letter template if you will file after 3 years based on marriage to a U.S. citizen. Refer to the sample as an example.

Replace Naturalization Certificate: Start with this USCIS cover letter template when you are filing Form N-565 to replace a destroyed naturalization certificate. Refer to the sample as an example and make changes as necessary.

Derived Citizenship: Use this N-600 cover letter template when you are requesting a citizenship certificate based on derived citizenship through a parent after birth. Refer to the sample as an example.

Acquired Citizenship: Use this N-600 cover letter template when you are requesting a citizenship certificate based on acquired citizenship through a parent at birth. Refer to the sample as an example.

The USCIS generally is not required when filing an immigration application or petition. However, it is recommended. A well written letter projects care and professionalism. If you present your case with pride and attention to detail, it’s more likely that a USCIS officer will notice the importance you place on the request. With this in mind:

• Keep your cover letter short and simple;
• Use typed English on single-sided white paper;
• Proofread before sending.

• USCIS address
• Date of filing
• Subject line that identifies the relevant benefit
• Greeting
• Short introductory paragraph describing the purpose of the letter
• List of the documents in your package that support your request for the immigration benefit
• Name and signature