My lawyer's clerck sent my application for my I-751 unfortunately she did not use registered mail. She only used regular mail. This being the case I don't have any proof that the we sent my application to the INS. It has been a month and a week now and I still haven't gotten my reciept. I know it should only take thirty days. What should I do, should I write the INS. Please tell me what I should do.

Thank you

Dear Rachel:

It does take INS longer than usual to send receipts for I-751 cases because they are not processed through the regular fee receipt system. So it is possible that your case was received, but has not yet been processed.

Writing to INS will not get you a prompt answer. If there is a time issue involved (for instance, your green card will be expiring shortly), you should have your attorney call the INS and speak with an immigration information officer to see if they have a record of the petition.

Your case is a good example of why we recommend that EVERYTHING sent to Immigration be by a mail service that provides a receipt so that you have proof of the delivery of your applications or documents. Good luck.

I have tried calling the California Service Center and the line is always busy. Is there any other way that I can get in touch with them. When you say that "It does take INS longer than usual to send receipts for I-751 cases because
they are not processed through the regular fee receipt system" does this mean that I shouldn't panic for the time being and give the INS more time to send it to me.

Dear Rachel:

We wouldn't panic, but if you do not receive something within the next few weeks, you should become somewhat concerned. You can also check with the bank to see if the check for the filing fee was cashed. If it was, then you should be all right.

We know it is almost impossible to get through to the service centers by phone, but this is really the only effective way to get an answer. We would suggest that you just keep trying until you get through. Good luck.

Hi it is me again. Would it be detrimental if I send another application, meaning the same I-751 ? This time by Fedex or UPS so I can track the documents.

Thanks so much

Dear Rachel:

It would not be detrimental, however, INS doesn't like to have duplicate petitions hanging around since this just creates confusion and causes them more work.

If possible, we would suggest waiting a short while longer. If you still do not get a receipt, or evidence that your check was cashed, then you should consider filing another petition. Good luck.

Thanks agian for you response.
It impossible to get through the California Service Center. I think my last resort is to go there myself about a week before my conditional green card expires and bring another copy of my documents. Would I be able to get the information I need if I go there directly (information if they recived my I-751 application).

Please advice.

Dear Rachel:

The service centers are not open to the public, and will not let you personally file an application there. However, what you can do is send the application by overnight mail, with evidence of delivery, prior to the expiration of your conditional residence.

Let us know how you make out with getting the receipt. Good luck.

Wouldn't that cause confusion with my application. because of the duplication. Or would that be my best bet at that point.

Thanks again.

Dear Rachel:

Obviously, you would not file a duplicate if you know that they have your first application. We only suggested the duplicate in case you do not get a receipt, or other evidence of filing, within a reasonable time, and your authorized stay is about to expire. Good luck.

Hi, my removal of conditinal status just got approved. I already filed to get my green card. I am planning to go home in September. I have a stamp from the INS saying that I am a legal permanent resident. I guess this is to show that I am a green card holder until the card arrives. My question is, is it okay to travel with the stamp. Also is there a way to check if the card has been mailed out yet.

Dear Myk:

If the stamp in your passport is current and indicates that you have been approved for permanent residence, then you can travel on it.

The only way we know how to check to see if the card was mailed out is to go to your local INS office and they can check with the Immigration Card Facility. Good luck.