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Form I-817: Application for Family Unity Benefits
USCIS Form I-817 is used to request initial benefits or an extension of those benefits under the Family Unity Program for individuals residing in the United States; it expires on 03/31/2027.
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USCIS Form I-817 - Application for Family Unity Benefits
USCIS Form I-817 is used to request initial benefits or an extension of those benefits under the Family Unity Program for individuals residing in the United States; it expires on 03/31/2027.
Risk Radar
Scan points- 1Do not submit a stamped or typewritten name in place of any actual signature.
- 2Failing to provide a U.S. address in either the Mailing Address or Physical Address sections.
- 3Not providing a proper signature (stamped or typewritten names are not accepted).
- 4Omitting required details when describing citizenship/nationality on Item Numbers 9-10.
- 5Entering height in meters or centimeters instead of using feet and inches for Item Number 4.
Plain English
This form allows someone to ask U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for their first set of family unity benefits or to keep those benefits going longer. By filing Form I-817, the applicant requests authorization to remain in the United States. It can also be used to request an initial or extension of a Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document).
Submission Date
- Filing date: The form should be filed to request an initial benefit or extension when the applicant needs that status under the Family Unity Program. Alternatively, it is filed to request an initial or extension of Form I-766.
- 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 requesting initial benefits or an extension of benefits under the Family Unity Program while residing in the United States.
- Do not use Form I-817 if you are a U.S. citizen and need to file for family unity benefits (though it is implied by the context, the source focuses on residency).
- Check Form G-1055 instead when needing specific information about the applicable filing fees.
Form selector
Use this form or another form?
Requesting initial or extension of Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
This form covers both the benefit request and EAD extension under the Family Unity Program.
✓ Check that you are requesting one of these benefits on the application.
Filing for an initial benefit/extension while residing in the U.S.
Residency is a mandatory requirement to file this form with USCIS.
✓ Confirm your current address meets the residency requirement.
Needing specific fee details for filing
This separate form provides comprehensive information regarding the fees applicable to Form I-817.
✓ Verify that the correct fee amount listed on Form G-1055 matches the application requirements.
Deadline or filing window
The filing trigger is when an initial benefit or extension is requested under the Family Unity Program. There is no specific date listed as a deadline on this form, but applicants must file it while residing in the United States to receive benefits.
Checklist
What you need before filling it out
Evidence of relationship to legalized alien
Evidence that Form I-130 was filed on your behalf · Required if the relationship still exists
Proof of past benefits
Evidence that you were granted Family Unity benefits in the past · Section C (Instructions p.5)
Travel history since last approval
A list of all trips outside the U.S. since last benefit grant · Section D (Instructions p.5)
Residency history since last approval
A list of all residences in the United States since last benefit grant · Section E (Instructions p.5)
Biometric requirement fulfillment
Fingerprints, if applicable · Section F (Instructions p.5)
Before you submit
- 1Type/print all information legibly using black ink.
- 2Ensure the application is properly signed by you or your signing authority.
- 3Confirm that if under 14, a parent or legal guardian has signed on your behalf.
- 4Verify that any required translator certification includes signature, printed name, date, and contact info.
- 5Check that all supporting evidence listed in the Instructions is included with the submission.
- 6If not a U.S. citizen, confirm you have notified USCIS of your new address within 10 days of moving.
- 7Ensure you have a valid United States address to file the application.
How to file this form
- 1Complete Form I-817 by typing or printing legibly in black ink, ensuring all required sections are filled out.
- 2Gather all necessary evidence, including proof of relationship (if applicable) and a list of past residences/trips.
- 3Sign the application properly; if applying for an EAD, ensure your signature is placed within the designated box on Form p.10.
- 4Mail or submit the completed Form I-817 and supporting evidence to the appropriate USCIS address (check www.uscis.gov/I-817 for current location).
- 5Receive confirmation that USCIS has accepted your application for adjudication.
Known limitations
- 1The form must be filed by an individual who resides in and files it in the United States.
- 2If a document is submitted with foreign language information, a full English translation must also be submitted.
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 Form I-817 has an instruction revision date of 04/01/24, and the source directs users to www.uscis.gov/I-817 for the most current filing information.
What changed or needs a fresh check
- Edition date — confirm the instruction revision date reads 04/01/24.
- Fee — check Form G-1055 for specific information about applicable fees.
- Mailing address — verify your current U.S. mailing address is properly entered in either the Mailing or Physical Address section.
- Signature — confirm you (or your signing authority) have signed, as USCIS will reject applications lacking a valid signature.
Quick Facts
Downloads
After you file
- 1Submit legible photocopies of requested documents unless the Instructions specify an original document.
- 2Keep a copy of the completed Form I-817 after filing.
- 3If USCIS requests an original document, it will be returned after USCIS determines it is no longer needed.
- 4If you do not attend your biometric services appointment, USCIS may deny the application.
Sources
- SRCInstructions p.1 — The purpose of Form I-817 is to request initial benefits under the Family Unity Program or to request an extension of such benefits.
- SRCInstructions p.2 — For additional information on filing, change of address, and other questions regarding Form I-817, one can visit www.uscis.gov/contactcenter or call 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833 ).
- SRCInstructions p.1 — To file Form I-817, the applicant must reside in and file it in the United States.
- SRCInstructions p.1 — Applicants should file Form I-817 to request an initial or extension of Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document) under the Family Unity Program.
- SRCInstructions p.2 — For disability accommodation/modifications regarding Form I-817, instructions are found on the appointment notice or at www.uscis.gov/accommodationsinfo.
- SRCInstructions p.10 — Applicants must submit at least three documents proving residence in the United States since May 5, 1988, or December 1, 1988.
- SRCForm p.1 — The official edition date for Form I-817 is 04/01/24 and it expires on 03/31/2027.
- SRCInstructions p.11 — A list of all trips made outside the United States since the last Family Unity benefit approval must be provided, including dates and reason for each absence.
Common confusion points
What is the OAN if my receipt number doesn't start with IOE?
The OAN is not the same as an A-Number.
→ Check that your receipt number begins with IOE to confirm you have an OAN.
Should I submit originals or copies of documents?
Submit legible photocopies unless the Instructions specifically instruct otherwise.
→ USCIS may request an original document at any time during processing.
What happens if I don't provide a U.S. address?
Applicants must provide a U.S. address to file this application.
→ Ensure Part 11 (Mailing Address) or Part 12 (Physical Address) is complete.
How do I report a move if I am not a U.S. citizen?
You must notify USCIS of your new address within 10 days of moving from your previous residence.
→ Use the website at www.uscis.gov/addresschange or call the Contact Center.
What if I don't know my weight for Item 4?
Enter "000" if you do not know your weight, or if the weight is under 30 pounds or over 699 pounds.
→ Do not enter weight in kilograms; use pounds.
How should I list my height (Item 12)?
Select the box for feet and then select the box for inches (e.g., "5" for feet, "09" for inches).
→ Do not enter height in meters or centimeters.
related_form_graph
:
Before: Form I-766 - Requesting an initial or extension of Employment Authorization Document (EAD) benefits via this form.,Used with: Various documents required to support the Family Unity Program benefit request.,After: Not stated in the official source — verify on the agency site,If something goes wrong: USCIS may request more information or evidence to support your application.
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Workflow map
Related forms and next steps
Current
Often used with
⚠ If something goes wrong
- Not stated in the official source — verify on the agency site (but USCIS Contact Center can provide information).
Questions about USCIS Form I-817
What is USCIS Form I-817 used for?
This form allows someone to ask U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for their first set of family unity benefits or to keep those benefits going longer. By filing Form I-817, the applicant requests authorization to remain in the United States. It can also be used to request an initial or extension of a Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document).
Who must file USCIS Form I-817?
The filer must reside in and file USCIS Form I-817 in the United States.
What information does USCIS Form I-817 require?
Part 3 collects information regarding the Basis for Application, stating why the applicant is applying. Part 4 gathers details about the relationship, specifically collecting information about the applicant's spouse or parent across Item Numbers 1.a.-12.
When is USCIS Form I-817 due?
The form should be filed to request an initial benefit or extension when the applicant needs that status under the Family Unity Program. Alternatively, it is filed to request an initial or extension of Form I-766.
Where do I file USCIS Form I-817?
Applicants must have a United States address to file this application. For specific filing instructions, applicants should visit www.uscis.gov/I-817.
How do I complete USCIS Form I-817?
First, all information must be typed or printed legibly in black ink. Applicants fill out sections like Part 3 (Basis for Application) before completing the relationship details in Part 4. The final step requires the applicant (or signing authority) to provide a proper signature on the form.
What happens if USCIS Form I-817 is filed incorrectly?
If the application is not signed or if the signature is invalid, USCIS will reject the application. If the applicant does not properly complete the form, they will not establish a basis for eligibility and may have their application rejected or denied.
What is the OAN if my receipt number doesn't start with IOE?
The OAN is not the same as an A-Number. Check that your receipt number begins with IOE to confirm you have an OAN.
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