CIP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CIP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which immigrant visa preference category covers unmarried sons and daughters (age 21 or older) of U.S. citizens? → F-1
2. What is the PRIMARY objective of contract review & negotiation within the Certified Immigration Paralegal profession? → To ensure quality outcomes through standardized practices and continuous improvement
3. What is a Green Card officially known as? → Permanent Resident Card
4. In case management, what is the significance of maintaining detailed client records? → To ensure accurate and complete case documentation.
5. Which of the following can result in the denial of an immigration benefit application? → Criminal record involving moral turpitude
6. Under INA § 313, which of the following is a statutory bar to demonstrating good moral character for naturalization purposes? → Membership in or affiliation with a totalitarian organization within the past 10 years
7. In Certified Immigration Paralegal, which factor MOST influences the selection of appropriate courtroom procedures & protocols? → The specific requirements and constraints of the situation
8. When can a paralegal ethically accept gifts from clients? → Only if it does not influence professional judgment.
9. Which factor BEST indicates mastery of dispute resolution & mediation in Certified Immigration Paralegal? → The ability to adapt knowledge and skills to varying contexts while maintaining standards
10. Which of the following is a benefit of using standardized intake procedures? → Ensures consistent and thorough information gathering.
11. What is the primary purpose of the Visa Bulletin published monthly by the U.S. Department of State? → To report current priority dates for immigrant visa categories
12. If a respondent fails to appear at a scheduled removal hearing without good cause after receiving proper notice, the immigration judge may: → Issue an in absentia order of removal
13. Which immigrant visa category has no annual numerical limit and is reserved for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens? → IR
14. What is the primary duty of a paralegal regarding client confidentiality? → Disclose client information only with client consent or legal obligation.
15. Which USCIS form is used to extend or change nonimmigrant status for dependents and certain other nonimmigrants who are not workers? → Form I-539
16. Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is filed with USCIS to accomplish which purpose? → Establish a qualifying family relationship for immigration purposes
17. What is the MOST important consideration when applying courtroom procedures & protocols in Certified Immigration Paralegal? → Following established protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
18. What is the ethical obligation regarding honesty in legal documentation? → Ensure documents are truthful and complete.
19. When learning new courtroom procedures & protocols in Certified Immigration Paralegal, which approach is MOST effective? → Combining theoretical study with supervised practical application
20. In Certified Immigration Paralegal, how does dispute resolution & mediation contribute to professional credibility? → By demonstrating competence, maintaining standards, and delivering consistent results
21. What document issued by CBP at a port of entry records a nonimmigrant's authorized admission date and period of stay? → I-94
22. What role does documentation play in client communication & advocacy within Certified Immigration Paralegal? → It ensures continuity, accountability, and serves as a reference for all parties
23. What is the PRIMARY objective of administrative law & procedures in the Certified Immigration Paralegal field? → To ensure adherence to established standards and protect stakeholders
24. What is the annual base H-1B visa cap for non-exempt employers? → 65,000
25. What is 'visa retrogression' in the context of immigration law? → A backward movement of priority dates in the Visa Bulletin
26. Removal proceedings are formally initiated when DHS files which document with the immigration court? → Notice to Appear (Form I-862)
27. What is the paralegal's responsibility when handling confidential client documents? → Ensure documents are securely stored and shared appropriately.
28. Which client communication & advocacy technique is MOST appropriate when delivering complex information in Certified Immigration Paralegal? → Breaking information into manageable segments and confirming understanding
29. Which document is essential to establish attorney-client relationship? → Engagement or retainer agreement.
30. Which ground of inadmissibility is triggered when an alien has been unlawfully present in the U.S. for more than 180 days but less than one year, then departs? → 3-year bar