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Discovering your family immigration application has been denied can feel earth-shattering. While this can be incredibly disparaging, you may be relieved to know you can appeal the decision. However, this process can be overwhelming, especially if you are unsure what went wrong the first time. Luckily, the following blog and a New York City family immigration lawyer can help you through these matters. Keep reading to learn more about navigating this process and why connecting with an attorney is in your best interest.

Why Might My Family Immigration Application Be Denied?

Unfortunately, there are several reasons why your application could have been denied. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has incredibly strict guidelines surrounding the application process. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • The officer believes you did not provide all the required information on your application
  • The officer believes there is information on your application
  • You did not pay the necessary application fees
  • The officer believes you did not provide information to qualify you for the visa category you applied for
  • The officer believes the information you provided renders you inadmissible for entry

How Do I Appeal This Decision?

If you need to appeal a decision, the first thing you must do is file a Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, with the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). However, this only applies to situations in which a USCIS officer has denied your application. If your decision was denied by a judge, you cannot overturn the decision made in immigration court.

It should be noted that you only have thirty calendar days from the date you receive the decision to file the appeal. However, if your decision was mailed, this increases to thirty-three days. This deadline is critical. If you miss it, you may be able to proceed with the appeal if you can prove to the USCIS officer that the delay was out of your control.

Do I Need to Speak With an Immigration Lawyer?

Though it may seem simple enough to file another document related to your immigration process, this is not always the truth. In reality, navigating the appeal process on your own can be overwhelming, as you may be unsure what information you need to include to provide you with the best possible chance of receiving a favorable outcome. Your lawyer can help ensure the document is completed and filed correctly with the necessary documentation.

At the Law Office of Jason A. Dennis, our dedicated legal team will do everything possible to assist you through this complex matter. We understand this can be an upsetting decision, which is why we will review your circumstances to help you appeal the USCIS’s rejection.