Documentation Standards Flashcards

A client's legal name changed after marriage. Which document best links the old and new names in the record?

Answer: The marriage certificate or a court-ordered name change document

Official civil or court records are the primary evidence of a legal name change.

A spouse-beneficiary was previously married. What documentation is generally required regarding the earlier marriage?

Answer: Proof it legally ended, such as a final divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate

Each prior marriage must be shown terminated to prove the current marriage is legally valid.

Which item is strongest evidence of a bona fide marriage in a family-based petition?

Answer: A joint lease and commingled bank account statements over time

Documents showing shared residence and finances over time best demonstrate a genuine marital relationship.

Who completes Form I-693, the Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record?

Answer: A USCIS-designated civil surgeon

Only USCIS-designated civil surgeons may complete Form I-693 for adjustment applicants in the U.S.

How must a completed Form I-693 be delivered to USCIS to remain valid?

Answer: In the sealed envelope provided by the civil surgeon, unopened

USCIS may reject or return an I-693 if the civil surgeon's sealed envelope has been opened or altered.

A financial sponsor files Form I-864. Which tax evidence is generally required?

Answer: A transcript or copy of the most recent federal income tax return

USCIS requires the most recent year's federal tax return or IRS transcript, with older years optional.

A birth certificate was registered many years after the birth. How should a consultant handle it?

Answer: Submit it with additional supporting evidence, since late-registered records may carry less weight

Delayed registrations may be given less weight, so corroborating evidence like school or baptismal records helps.