Key Takeaways
- Form G-28 enables legal representatives to act officially on behalf of applicants in immigration cases, ensuring proper USCIS communication.
- Only qualified attorneys or accredited representatives can file Form G-28, available on the official USCIS website to ensure compliance.
- Accurate completion, applicant consent, signatures, and required documentation are critical for successful submission and avoiding delays in immigration processes.
The Department of Homeland Security (🇺🇸) requires Form G-28, also known as the “Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative,” when an attorney or an accredited representative officially appears on behalf of an applicant in immigration cases. It allows the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to recognize the representative and communicate directly with them regarding the applicant’s case. Filling out Form G-28 is a vital procedural step for ensuring proper legal representation in immigration matters. Below is an organized, step-by-step guide to help individuals and representatives complete this form accurately.
Introduction and General Prerequisites
Form G-28 is primarily completed by attorneys or accredited representatives representing someone for immigration purposes. This guide will go through each section of the form systematically to ensure clarity and correctness. Before starting, gather all relevant details about the applicant, the attorney or accredited representative, and any supporting information required.
Important Note: This form should only be completed by individuals legally allowed to provide representation, such as attorneys admitted to practice law in the United States or accredited representatives of organizations recognized under Department of Justice regulations.
Step 1: Access the Updated Form
The current version of Form G-28 is dated 09/17/18. Outdated forms are not accepted, so it’s essential to download the latest form directly from the USCIS website. Ensure the form includes the official logo of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at the top and notes its expiration date (currently listed as 05/31/2021).
Step 2: Complete Part 1 – Information About the Attorney or Accredited Representative
This section collects details about the legal representative appearing in the case.
2.1 Personal and Contact Information
- Name: Enter the attorney or accredited representative’s full name. This includes:
- Family Name (Last Name) in Section 2.a.
- Given Name (First Name) in Section 2.b.
- Middle Name (if applicable) in Section 2.c.
- Telephone Number: Provide a daytime telephone number. It’s important for USCIS correspondence.
- Address: Enter the complete address of the attorney or accredited representative, including:
- Street Number and Name (3.a.).
- Optional apartment, suite, or floor number (3.b.).
- City, State, ZIP Code, and Country (3.c.–3.h.).
USCIS sends updates and important case notifications to this address, so ensure everything is accurate.
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Email Address and Fax Number: If available, include an email (6.) and/or fax number (7.) for expedited communication.
2.2 USCIS Online Account Number
If the attorney or representative has a USCIS Online Account Number, it should be provided in Section 1. Leaving this field blank is acceptable if no account exists.
Step 3: Complete Part 2 – Eligibility Information for the Representative
This section determines the legal authority of the individual submitting Form G-28 to represent the applicant.
3.1 Declaration of Authority
- I am an attorney…: Check the appropriate box to certify your eligibility as an attorney practicing law in the United States or associated jurisdictions. Include the jurisdiction name (state or territory) and your bar number, if applicable.
- I am not…: If you have not been restricted, disbarred, or otherwise suspended from practicing law, check the corresponding box. Otherwise, use the space in Part 6 to explain any legal limitations on practice.
3.2 Accredited Representative of a Recognized Organization
For non-attorneys affiliated with recognized nonprofit or charitable organizations, complete:
– Organization Name: Include the full name of the recognized institution.
– Date of Accreditation: Specify the exact date when you became accredited.
3.3 Additional Representational Roles
Additional options in this section pertain to individuals providing representation under special circumstances, like:
– Law students or law graduates working under supervised practice (Section 4.a.).
– Associates working under the primary attorney or representative’s instructions (Section 3.).
Step 4: Complete Part 3 – Applicant’s Consent to Representation
In this section, the applicant provides explicit consent for the representative to handle their case.
4.1 Scope of Representation
- The applicant must specify whether the representation extends to all immigration-related matters or specific issues. There are designated checkboxes for this purpose.
- If the authorization is limited to particular matters, these must be clearly defined in the provided space.
4.2 Applicant’s Signature
- The applicant (or petitioner) must sign this section to validate the submission of Form G-28.
- Include the date of signing in the prescribed format (mm/dd/yyyy).
Step 5: Complete Part 4 – Representative’s Signature
The attorney or accredited representative must:
– Sign the form in this section to affirm the accuracy of the information provided.
– Include the date of signing (in mm/dd/yyyy format).
Step 6: Additional Information (Part 6)
This section provides extra space for either the representative or applicant to include supporting details. Frequently, this section is used:
– To address restrictions or special conditions related to the representative’s authority (clarifications from Part 2).
– To provide addresses or contact details requiring more space than the earlier sections allowed.
Step 7: Prepare for Submission
7.1 Check for Completeness
Before submission, verify that:
– All required details in Parts 1 through 4 have been accurately filled out.
– The form is signed by both the applicant and the representative.
Note: Unsigned or incomplete forms are immediately rejected by USCIS.
7.2 Include Supporting Documentation
It’s advisable to attach copies of:
– The attorney’s bar membership certificate or proof of good standing.
– Proof of accreditation for representatives associated with recognized organizations.
7.3 Submission Guidelines
Form G-28 must generally be submitted with the associated immigration application or petition rather than as a stand-alone document. Verify specific submission instructions as outlined in the relevant immigration case guidelines.
Step 8: Post-Submission Expectations
Once Form G-28 is accepted:
– The attorney or accredited representative will begin receiving copies of all USCIS notices related to the applicant’s case.
– USCIS will also direct requests for additional information or evidence to the representative.
If there’s an issue with G-28 (e.g., missing information), USCIS may request corrections. Be prepared to respond promptly.
Key Tips for Success
- Use Legible Formatting: USCIS must be able to clearly read all entries. Avoid handwriting that may smudge or be hard to decipher.
- Cross-Check Authority: Ensure the representative fits USCIS definitions (attorney or accredited representative). If uncertain, refer to official guidelines.
- Keep Copies: Retain copies of the completed form and all supporting documents for your records.
- USCIS Online Account Number: If you don’t yet have a USCIS online account, consider creating one. It simplifies case tracking and correspondence.
Final Thoughts
Form G-28 plays an essential role in formalizing communication and representation in immigration matters. By meticulously following each step and ensuring full accuracy, applicants and their representatives can avoid avoidable delays or rejections. For official resources, visit the USCIS website.
By following this guide, applicants and representatives alike can navigate the complexities of the process with greater clarity and efficiency. Analysis from VisaVerge.com emphasizes that preparation and attention to detail are key to ensuring a smooth submission process for this and all related forms.
How to Fill Out Form G-28
Filing Form G-28, also known as the Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, is essential for legal representatives assisting clients in immigration matters.
Why it matters:
Form G-28 authorizes attorneys or accredited representatives to represent individuals before the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Errors in the form could delay your case or render the authorization invalid.
The big picture:
This form is for attorneys or accredited representatives to formally establish their role in immigration cases with DHS components like USCIS, ICE, or CBP.
Key steps to filling out Form G-28:
– Part 1: Information About the Attorney or Accredited Representative
Enter the representative’s full name, contact information, organization details (if applicable), and their accreditation or bar membership credentials. Include the USCIS Online Account Number, if available.
- Part 2: Eligibility Information
Confirm qualification to practice law or accreditation as a representative. Specify the jurisdiction or recognized organization. -
Part 3: Client Information and Consent
Ensure the form is signed by both the attorney/representative and the client to affirm consent and formalize representation.
Yes, but:
Only attorneys in good standing or accredited representatives from qualified nonprofit organizations can use this form. Those with legal restrictions (e.g., suspensions) must disclose that in Part 6.
The bottom line:
Completing Form G-28 accurately streamlines immigration representation and ensures compliance with DHS requirements.
Learn Today
Form G-28: The official “Notice of Entry of Appearance” form allowing legal representatives to assist applicants in U.S. immigration cases.
Accredited Representative: A non-attorney affiliated with a recognized organization who is authorized to represent clients in immigration matters.
USCIS Online Account Number: A unique identifier allowing representatives and applicants to track cases and communicate with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services online.
Scope of Representation: Specifies whether legal representation covers all immigration matters or is limited to specific issues outlined in Form G-28.
Bar Membership Certificate: Proof that an attorney is licensed and in good standing with the legal bar of a U.S. state or territory.
This Article in a Nutshell
Form G-28, required by USCIS, empowers attorneys or accredited representatives to act on an applicant’s behalf in immigration cases. Without it, legal representation is unrecognized. Ensure accuracy: use the latest form, fill sections entirely, and include signatures. Properly completing G-28 avoids delays, guaranteeing smooth communication between USCIS, applicants, and representatives.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• Form G-28: Attorney Representation in Immigration Cases
• H-1B Final Rule and Form I-129 Updates Effective January 17th 2025
• Immigration Reform Becomes Top Priority for Americans in 2025
• Revised Form I-129 for H-1B Visa: Key Changes for 2025
• H-1B Visa Reform Act 2004: Key Changes for Employers
