CIS Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. What is 'portability' in the context of a pending I-485 adjustment of status application based on an approved I-130? → Family-based portability does not exist; it applies only to employment-based petitions
2. What is the primary purpose of standardized procedures in Citizenship and Naturalization? → To ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all practitioners
3. A noncitizen who willfully misrepresents a material fact to procure a visa or immigration benefit under INA § 212(a)(6)(C)(i) faces what consequence? → Permanent inadmissibility (subject to a limited waiver)
4. During a client interview at USCIS, the officer asks a question outside the scope of the petition. The advocate's appropriate response is to: → Politely note the scope and advise the client to answer truthfully within their knowledge
5. A nonprofit accredited representative is asked by their director to handle a complex removal defense case they have never handled before. They should: → Decline or seek appropriate supervision and co-representation by an attorney
6. Which approach is most effective for problem-solving in Citizenship and Naturalization? → Systematic analysis followed by evidence-based decision making
7. Under current USCIS public charge policy, which of the following benefits is NOT counted as a 'public benefit' for inadmissibility purposes? → Emergency Medicaid
8. What are the main types of U.S. visas? → Non-immigrant visas and immigrant visas
9. A derivative asylum beneficiary is eligible to receive asylum based on which relationship to the principal applicant? → Spouse and unmarried children under 21 who are in the United States
10. Why is maintaining visa status important? → To avoid penalties, deportation, or legal consequences
11. What is the annual H-1B cap for regular petitions filed under the U.S. master's cap exemption? → 20,000
12. When maintaining a client file, which of the following represents best practice for document retention? → Retain files for the minimum period required by state bar rules, typically 5-7 years
13. What does 'deportation' mean under immigration law? → The process of removing a foreign national from the country
14. Why is it important to provide accurate and timely advice during client consultations? → To ensure the client can make informed decisions about their case
15. Voluntary departure under INA § 240B allows a noncitizen to avoid which consequence of a formal removal order? → The statutory bar on reentry and the permanent record of a removal order
16. Which of the following is a qualifying relationship for a VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) self-petition? → Abused spouse of a U.S. citizen or LPR
17. What is the minimum financial requirement for a U.S. citizen sponsoring an immigrant relative through Form I-864? → 125% of the federal poverty guideline for the household size
18. Under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA), how is the 'age' of a child determined for family-based preference categories? → Child's age on date visa becomes available minus time I-130 was pending
19. Which form is used to apply for asylum and withholding of removal in the United States? → Form I-589
20. What is the primary purpose of standardized procedures in Immigration Law Fundamentals? → To ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all practitioners
21. What is an H-1B visa primarily used for? → Specialty occupation workers in fields requiring at least a bachelor's degree
22. Which visa classification allows foreign nationals to work temporarily in the U.S. as religious workers? → R-1
23. Under USCIS regulations, an accredited representative may represent clients before USCIS if they work for a: → DOJ-recognized nonprofit organization
24. Which of the following is a mandatory bar to asylum eligibility? → Applicant has been convicted of a particularly serious crime
25. Why is understanding immigration regulations crucial for businesses? → To ensure compliance with employment eligibility laws and avoid legal consequences
26. What is the primary purpose of the visa application process? → To determine if the applicant is eligible to enter a country for a specific purpose
27. Why is it essential to provide accurate information on visa applications? → To ensure a timely and successful application process
28. Which approach is most effective for problem-solving in Visa Categories? → Systematic analysis followed by evidence-based decision making
29. What is the significance of understanding the client’s cultural background? → To ensure effective communication and understanding
30. Which document must a nonimmigrant employer sponsor file to petition for an H-1B worker? → Form I-129