Did I send my passport with the I-140? Does USCIS retain it?

When it comes to immigration processes to the United States, especially in the context of the EB-1 visa, it is always important to understand the steps involved and how documents are handled during the process. The I-140 is a fundamental petition that proves the beneficiary’s qualification for an employment-based visa category, and understanding the flow of your documents can help reduce uncertainties during the procedure.

Usually, when you send your passport along with the I-140 form, USCIS may indeed retain the document temporarily during the review. Such retention does not mean that your passport has been lost or that you will be without it permanently. The common USCIS practice is to keep the passport only while verifying the information and completing the necessary case analyses. As soon as these steps are finalized, the passport is returned to the applicant.

It is essential to pay attention to official communication from USCIS, as any additional need for documentation or clarifications is usually informed through formal notifications. This procedure is part of the strict compliance with United States immigration laws and regulations. Therefore, following the official guidelines and checking the notifications received is crucial.

Also remember the importance of consulting reliable sources or specialized professionals in the immigration field when dealing with any doubts. It is always recommended to avoid companies or campaigns that promise miraculous solutions, as the process is complex and subject to strict rules. Staying informed and acting cautiously is the best way to ensure that your case is handled according to the current legal requirements.

In summary, USCIS generally retains the passport only temporarily to verify the necessary information, and after this stage, it is returned. Stay alert to the instructions from the responsible agency and always seek updated information from reliable sources to ensure you are following all steps correctly in your immigration process.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.