Does USCIS return original documents sent?

Whenever you need to send original documents to USCIS as part of an application – including applications related to the U visa – it is essential to be well informed about the official guidelines.

In many cases, USCIS recommends that you send notarized or certified copies unless the form instructions explicitly require the original.

In practice, USCIS generally does not return original documents submitted with your application. This is because these documents are used to verify the information provided and may be retained as part of the record.

If USCIS needs the original document for a specific procedure, it will typically request additional instructions, informing you how and when you should present it (for example, during an interview or at a later stage of the process).

For this reason, it is advisable to keep copies of all documents sent. Always carefully check the form instructions and review the guidance available on the official USCIS website to determine if there are exceptions or special procedures related to document return.

It is also important to comply with immigration laws at every stage and be cautious of companies or advertisements that promise miraculous solutions or guaranteed outcomes.

Remember that for any doubt or specific situation, consulting with specialized professionals – through official and reliable sources – can be very helpful in guiding you according to current legislation and USCIS guidelines.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.