For many immigration petitions and forms (Eg. I-129, G-28, I-140), USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) normally only accepts “wet” signatures. As both lawyers and applicants have to sign many forms, this creates logistical issues when freedom of movement has been restricted. As a result, during the Covid-19 crisis, USCIS will accepted electronic and reproduced signatgures instead of a “wet” signature on all benefit forms and documents. This is a temporary change and all other form instructions still apply. Consulates will also accept electronic signatures on the DS-156e E-2 visa form.
A document may be “scanned, faxed, photocopied, or similarly reproduced provided that the copy must be of an original document containing an original handwritten signature, unless otherwise specified.” You should keep a copy of the original document because USCIS may request it at any time.
Find out all of the latest Corona Virus Immigration updates on our New Immigration Corona Virus Page. Click Here to learn more.
We have provided a number of links with key immigration information related to the Corona Virus.
- Top 10 Covid-19 Immigration Questions
- Implications of Layoffs for employers who have employees on H-1B and/or E-3 Visas
- USCIS announces flexibility for request for evidence (RFE) and Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID)
- Information on Consular closures during Covid-19
- USCIS issues guidance on Remote 1-9 verification during Covid-19
- USCIS office closures due to Covid-19
- Can I apply for Unemployment Insurance Benefits while on a Visa?
- Canada/U.S. Border Closures
- USCIS announces temporary suspension of premium processing
- What can you do if your ESTA is running out?
- Travel Ban for Europe
- Stimulus Bill (All 800 pages)
- Information on Small Business Loans related to the Stimulus package
- USCIS to accept scanned/reproduced signatures instead of “wet” signatures on immigration petitions and forms
- Implications of furlough or termination if you are on a TN visa
- Does the Stimulus Bill impact my immigration status? Is there a public charge concern?
- Understanding the Stimulus Package for Small Businesses and the Paycheck Protection Program
- Small Business Administration COVID-19 Loans
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