Form G-1145: e-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
Applying to be a citizen of the United States is no small feat. There are many requirements and expectations that applicants must fulfill, not to mention the significant impact that this single decision can have on an applicant’s life. One of the hardest parts of this process, however, is waiting for the outcome of your application. Keeping track of your status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) throughout the application process can relieve stress while your application is pending. In particular, Form G-1145 allows you to expedite one crucial step in the application process and may offer you some peace of mind in the meantime.
What Is Form G-1145?
USCIS Form G-1145 allows an applicant to receive faster notification from USCIS that their application has been accepted.
(It’s important to note that acceptance, in this case, does not mean approval. Submitting Form G-1145 does not mean your application will be processed more quickly. The processing time for your application is based on what you are applying for and has no correlation to the G-1145 e-notification.)
USCIS Form G-1145 is attached to the first page of your application package. Form G-1145 can only be sent to USCIS lockbox facilities, which are located in Lewisville, Texas; Chicago, Illinois; Elgin, Illinois; and Phoenix, Arizona.
The notice of acceptance will be sent to you via email and/or text message directly from USCIS.
Benefits of a USCIS Form G-1145
The main benefit of Form G-1145 is that it is a convenient way to receive a quick notification when your application has been accepted for processing. According to USCIS, the applicant will receive notification of receipt within 24 hours. The notification includes your 13-digit case receipt number and instructions on how to use it to track your case status online.
If you opt not to use Form G-1145, notification of your application’s acceptance for processing will arrive in the mail as a physical I-797C Notice of Action. This typically takes about ten days, but it can take longer due to delays in processing or shipping. Applicants who use Form G-1145 will also receive an I-797C notice.
How Is Form G-1145 Different from Notice I-797C?
Form G-1145 is a request for an electronic notification that USCIS has received your application and has accepted it for processing. A Form G-1145 e-notification does not mean that your application has been approved. This form merely opts you in to receive a message when USCIS has accepted your application for processing.
Notice I-797C is a notice received in the mail regarding the acceptance of your application, and is also not a notice of approval. Notice I-797C provides additional information, such as whether your biometrics or interview has been scheduled, or if your case has been transferred or reopened.
Does the G-1145 Provide Case Updates?
No, the G-1145 does not provide case updates. Submitting a G-1145 e-notification form results in only one USCIS update: the confirmation that your application package is accepted for processing. No further messages will be sent as a result of this form.
If you want electronic case updates directly from USCIS, you must sign up for an online myUSCIS account and turn on the Case Status Alerts option. Form G-1145 merely notifies you that your application has reached its destination and has been accepted for processing.
How to Download Form G-1145, e-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
You can download Form G-1145 directly from the USCIS website or complete and submit the form online. The form is free and requires only your name and email address or phone number. If you print the form to submit with your application package, it must be paper-clipped onto the first page.
Upon receiving your application package, USCIS will review its completeness and accuracy and will process your payment before sending you an acceptance notification. Typically, the text or email will be sent within 24 hours of USCIS deciding to accept your application.
USCIS does not require Form G-1145; if you don’t opt into the e-notification program, you will simply receive notification in the mail.
Who Does Form G-1145 Help?
USCIS Form G-1145 only works with applications submitted to lockbox facilities. Lockbox facilities are locations that process payments and receive applications; they don’t make the final decision about your application. Lockbox-eligible forms include all marriage and/or family green card applications. Some common forms eligible for G-1145 e-notifications include the following:
- Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card: If a permanent resident has their green card stolen, or if their green card is lost or damaged, they will need to fill out this form to receive a new one.
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: For U.S. citizens to bring their family members to the U.S., provided they meet specific requirements.
- Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status: Used by foreign nationals already in the U.S. to apply for a green card.
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization: Requests entry to the U.S. based on employment.
In all of these cases, a G-1145 is a simple additional step that allows for faster notification regarding the acceptance of your application.
Who Doesn’t Need Form G-1145?
There is no reason to file a G-1145 form with an application being submitted directly to a USCIS field office or service center. Pay attention to where you’re sending your application before you opt in for an G-1145 form.
How Much Does It Cost to File Form G-1145?
Filing the G-1145 form costs nothing. Other concurrent forms may require payment, but there is no additional cost for the e-notification itself. Other form fees can be paid through check, money order, or credit/debit card authorization.
Hire an Immigration Lawyer for Legal Assistance
If you are applying for an adjustment of status or trying to petition for a relative to enter the U.S., schedule an immigration lawyer consultation to help streamline the process. Having someone on your side who knows the immigration process can increase your chances of receiving a favorable decision. Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C. is an immigration law firm located in Chicago, Illinois, that understands how to help you. We know that seeking immigration benefits can be a complicated process. Our attorneys have the necessary experience with USCIS processes and vocabulary to guide you through the Form G-1145 process.
Whether you’re just starting your immigration journey, or you’re figuring out how to go about filing an appeal for an unfavorable decision, contact us as soon as possible to ensure that you’re moving in the right direction.