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Form G-1041A: Genealogy Records Request
USCIS Form G-1041A is used to obtain copies of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services historical records for researchers. The form has an expiration date of 02/28/2027.
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USCIS Form G-1041A - Genealogy Records Request
USCIS Form G-1041A is used to obtain copies of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services historical records for researchers. The form has an expiration date of 02/28/2027.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Do not submit the form without a valid signature; USCIS will reject unsigned requests.
- 2Filing without typing or printing legibly in black ink on the form.
- 3Submitting a stamped name instead of an actual signature.
- 4Not providing the Alien Registration Number (A-Number) when required.
- 5Requesting original documents instead of photocopies, which USCIS will not return automatically.
Plain English
This form allows a researcher to request photocopies of old USCIS files that are held by the agency. If you need a record but do not have a specific file number, you must first use Form G-1041 for an index search. The agency will provide copies, but it will not return your original documents.
Submission Date
- Filing date: Not stated in the official source for a strict filing deadline; however, it expires on 02/28/2027.
- Preparation window: collect IDs, supporting records, and signatures in advance.
- Final review: verify names, dates, and required fields before submission.
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What this form is for
- Use this form when a researcher needs copies of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) historical records by file number.
- Do not use Form G-1041A to request records of naturalization prior to September 27, 1906, sea/land/air manifest lists prior to December 1982, certified copies, deportation records, or the return of original documents.
- Check Form G-1041 instead when submitting an index search of USCIS historical records because a valid File Number is not available.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Seeking living immigrants' records or those who arrived after 1945
This form should be used for Freedom of Information/Privacy Act Requests instead.
✓ Check the 'Who Should Use Form G-1041A' section.
Requesting copies of original documents (not just photocopies)
Use this specific form to request the return of original documents.
✓ Check Part 3 instructions for confirmation.
Needing an index search because a File Number is unknown
This form serves as the Genealogy Index Search Request when you lack a file number.
✓ Check Instructions p.1.
Requesting records of naturalization prior to September 27, 1906
Consult Federal court records stored at NARA for these older records.
✓ Verify location details on www.archives.gov/research/guide-fed-records/.
Deadline or filing window
The general filing window has an expiration date of 02/28/2027. There is no specific trigger event stated for when the deadline begins, but researchers must ensure they file before this date to be eligible for processing.
Checklist
What you need before filling it out
File Number
Identification of record (e.g., C-file number) · Form G-1041A Part 3
Documentary Proof of Death
Required if the immigrant's date of birth is less than 100 years prior to the request date. · Attached evidence section
Filing Fee
$80 (for Copy Format - Hard Copy) · Form G-1041A Part 2
Naturalization Data (if applicable)
Date of Naturalization, Court, County/City · Form G-1041A Part 2
Alien Registration Number (AR-2)
A or AR number · Form G-1041A Part 2
Before you submit
- 1Complete all questions fully and accurately on every sheet.
- 2Type or print 'N/A' if a question does not apply to the requestor.
- 3Type or print 'None' if a required numeric response is zero (unless directed otherwise).
- 4Attach legible photocopies of all requested documents, unless instructed otherwise by the Instructions.
- 5If applicable, attach documentary proof of death for immigrants born less than 100 years prior to the request date.
- 6Select the appropriate fee box(es) in Part 2 (e.g., $80 Microfilm or Hard Copy).
- 7Sign and date every sheet submitted with the Form G-1041A.
How to file this form
- 1Complete all required information on USCIS Form G-1041A, ensuring all questions are fully answered.
- 2Attach all necessary evidence, such as documentary proof of death if applicable, to the form.
- 3Pay the appropriate filing fee (e.g., $80 for Hard Copy) and select the corresponding box in Part 2.
- 4Sign and date each sheet of Form G-1041A before mailing or submitting it.
- 5Submit the completed package to the USCIS Records Operations Branch, referencing www.uscis.gov/history-and-genealogy/genealogy/requesting-help/genealogy-frequently-asked-questions for current location details.
Known limitations
- 1Form G-1041A should not be used to request records of naturalization that occurred prior to September 27, 1906; for these, one must consult Federal court records at NARA Record Group 21.
- 2The form cannot be used to request sea, land, or air manifest lists dated before December 1982; contact NARA for those specific lists.
- 3If the filer requires the return of original documents instead of a copy, Form G-884 must be used.
- 4This office can only provide photocopies of USCIS Historical records when using Form G-1041A; certified copies are not provided by this request alone.
- 5Form G-1041A should not be used to specifically request deportation records.
Field map
Compact field-by-field guide
Applicant Info
3 items
Your current legal name.
MM/DD/YYYY.
Alien Registration Number if previously assigned.
Details
1 items
The specific reason or legal basis for filing this form.
Evidence
1 items
List of documents supporting this application.
Signatures
2 items
Sign under penalty of perjury.
MM/DD/YYYY.
Almost done reviewing the fields?
Fillable formOpen in Editor->The current edition of USCIS Form G-1041A is dated 04/01/24, and the instructions direct filers to check the website for the most current filing location information.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Edition date — confirm the revision date reads 04/01/24.
- Fee — confirm the standard copy format fee is $80 (Hard Copy).
- Mailing address — verify current filing locations on www.uscis.gov/G-1041A.
- Signature — ensure the signature provided is a photocopy, fax, or scan of an original handwritten ink signature.
- Expiration date — confirm the form expires on 02/28/2027.
Quick Facts
Downloads
After you file
- 1The filer must sign and date each sheet of Form G-1041A.
- 2It is recommended that the filer print or save a copy of their completed request for personal records.
- 3If USCIS accepts the request, it will be checked for completeness; failure to complete it properly may result in rejection or denial.
- 4USCIS may request additional information or evidence to support the request, and originals of submitted copies may also be requested.
Sources
- SRCInstructions p.1 — The purpose of Form G-1041A is to obtain copies of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) historical records.
- SRCInstructions p.1 — Researchers should use this request if they are a researcher requesting a copy by file number or one who has received file numbers from the G-1041.
- SRCInstructions p.2 — USCIS cannot retrieve a record without a file number, requiring Form G-1041 to be submitted first if the number is missing.
- SRCInstructions p.3 — For requesting a Visa File, one must provide the visa number and arrival information obtained from prior Form G-1041.
- SRCForm p.2 — The fee for Hard Copy is $80, and the fee for Microfilm is $80.
- SRCInstructions p.4 — Filers should check www.uscis.gov/G-1041 A for current filing location information.
- SRCInstructions p.5 — OMB No. 1615-0096 expires on 02/28/2027.
Common confusion points
What do I provide if my record is a C-File (Naturalization Certificate)?
Provide the certificate number AND the name of court, location, and date of naturalization.
→ Ensure you include all three pieces of identifying information.
When should I use Form G-1041A instead of just sending in records?
Use G-1041A when requesting a copy of a USCIS historical record by file number or after receiving those numbers from the G-1041.
→ If you have no file number, start with G-1041.
What is the fee for my request on Form G-1041A?
The standard fees are $80 for both Hard Copy and Microfilm formats.
→ Select all appropriate boxes to confirm the correct format fee.
Do I need to provide a Certificate of Registry number for a Visa File request?
No, for a Registry File request, do not provide the Certificate of Registry number (example: CR-12345).
→ Provide only the Registry file number itself.
What happens if USCIS asks for an original document after I submit my form?
USCIS will return that original document to the filer after determining it is no longer needed.
→ Keep records of these requests, as they confirm submission and follow-up.
If a question on Form G-1041A doesn't apply to me (e.g., married status), what should I write?
Type or print 'N/A', unless the instructions direct otherwise.
→ Check the specific instruction for that question first.
Workflow map
Related forms and next steps
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After
Questions about USCIS Form G-1041A
What is USCIS Form G-1041A used for?
This form allows a researcher to request photocopies of old USCIS files that are held by the agency. If you need a record but do not have a specific file number, you must first use Form G-1041 for an index search. The agency will provide copies, but it will not return your original documents.
Who must file USCIS Form G-1041A?
Researchers should use Form G-1041A if they are requesting a copy of a USCIS historical record by file number or if they received those numbers from using Form G-1041.
What information does USCIS Form G-1041A require?
The form collects details about the researcher and the specific records needed, including providing the Alien Registration Number (A-Number) if applicable. Additional information can be provided on Part 4 of the request.
Where do I file USCIS Form G-1041A?
The most current filing location instructions are found on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/G-1041A. Do not mail your completed Form G-1041 to the address listed for Form G-1041.
How do I complete USCIS Form G-1041A?
First, type or print legibly in black ink. Then, answer all questions fully and accurately, using 'N/A' for inapplicable items. Finally, sign and date each sheet of your completed request.
What happens if USCIS Form G-1041A is filed incorrectly?
If the request is not signed or if the signature is invalid, USCIS will reject the request; failure to provide requested information prevents processing.
What do I provide if my record is a C-File (Naturalization Certificate)?
Provide the certificate number AND the name of court, location, and date of naturalization. Ensure you include all three pieces of identifying information.
When should I use Form G-1041A instead of just sending in records?
Use G-1041A when requesting a copy of a USCIS historical record by file number or after receiving those numbers from the G-1041. If you have no file number, start with G-1041.
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