If on the I-129 petition you checked Part 2, Q.2a or b, submit the entire petition in duplicate.

Submit all required documentation at once. Once the petition/application is submitted, forget trying to send in any additional information, except if Premium Processing or in response to a USCIS request for additional information. If you omitted something critical, consider re-filing (with new fee) to save time, and withdrawing the old petition.

Two-hole punch the entire submission at the top using metal fasteners (ACCOs). Separate voluminous exhibits by colored paper inserts (makes them easier to see) referenced as Exh. 1, 2, 3, etc., correlated to the petitioner letter. Supply an index for voluminous exhibits.

Sign all forms in blue ink to eliminate any question whether the signature is an original.

Mark the outside of the envelope of an initial filing "ORIGINAL SUBMISSION - I-129/O-1B[O-2, etc.]." If an extension of stay or change of status is involved, add "w/ES" or "w/COS."

See the USCIS Service Center Tips and Contact Information for the address to send your regular or premium-processing visa petition. We encourage the use of air courier services because of the tracking ability.

Send principal and support petitions in the same envelope. Clip them together with a binder clip, but attach separate checks to the petitions (or optional CSC sheets). Similarly, submit any accompanying I-539 applications at the same time, accompanied by separate checks.

If you have any special requests or instructions, consider printing them on a red sheet and placing that sheet on top of your filing.

Always include a return courier mailer. USCIS is getting better at using them. USCIS prefers DHL return mailers, but will use FedEx (and other) prepaid envelopes. Include your valid account number, and be sure to indicate the service center as the sender and use its regular street address as the sender’s address.

The USCIS is accepting Form I-129 visa applications electronically. Only the Form I-129 and payment are accepted via the web. The rest of the supporting evidence still needs to be filed in hard copy. While USCIS does not process the petition until all information is received, the application filing date assigned to the petition is the date on which electronic payment is received online– so petitioners may “get in line” for processing a bit faster. Electronic applications also have the potential advantage of reducing USCIS typos and other errors. Please be aware – the filing instructions for electronic petitions vary from the traditional applications. Check out the complete e-filing instructions on the USCIS web site. Petitioners may still choose to file the traditional paper petitions.