Documentation Standards Flashcards

What does an apostille under the Hague Convention authenticate?

Answer: The origin of the public document, such as the official's signature and seal

An apostille certifies the signature, capacity, and seal of the issuing official, not the content's accuracy.

Which statement about USCIS translator qualifications is correct?

Answer: Any person competent in both languages may translate if they sign the required certification

USCIS requires a competence and accuracy certification, not a specific professional credential.

What is the difference between a certified copy and a notarized copy of a civil record?

Answer: A certified copy is issued by the official record custodian; a notary only verifies identity or a signature

Certified copies come from the record-keeping authority, while notaries generally cannot certify vital records.

If an applicant fails to respond to an RFE by the deadline, what will USCIS typically do?

Answer: Deny the case as abandoned or decide it on the existing record

Under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(13), failure to respond may lead to denial as abandoned or on the record.

Under Form I-9 rules, how long must an employer retain a worker's completed I-9?

Answer: Three years after hire or one year after employment ends, whichever is later

Employers must keep I-9s for the later of 3 years after hire or 1 year after termination.

A client is paying a USCIS paper filing fee by credit card. Which form is used?

Answer: Form G-1450

Form G-1450 authorizes USCIS to charge a credit card for filing fees.

A client's police certificate is unavailable from their country according to the State Department reciprocity schedule. What is the best documentation step?

Answer: Note the unavailability and cite the reciprocity schedule entry in the filing

Documenting official unavailability per the reciprocity schedule explains the missing record transparently.