And if you’re trying to get a green card, but have forgotten to bring the passport in which your U.S. visa was located, don’t worry, you can still show that you were authorized to come to the United States. Your I-94 travel record is one of the most important documents in this case. Your I-94 is your legal documentation of your entry to the United States, and you can show proof of legal entry even if you no longer have your passport.
- If you have lost your I-94, you can get it back. If you want to get a copy of a lost I-94 travel record, check the official website or follow instructions from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- If you entered the US on a valid visa before 2013 and are not in the US anymore, you might have to ask for a paper I-94 to complete your file.
Why Should You Get A Police Clearance Certificate, and Who Should Receive One?
A police clearance certificate is proof of your criminal record or not. It’s usually a list of arrests you’ve had, the charges they are for, and what happened to them.
When you are attempting to get a marriage-based green card or any other family-based green card outside of the US, you’ll be required to submit a police clearance certificate from any foreign country where you have been residing for more than 6 months (even if you have no criminal record there).
It’s necessary for the certificate since US immigration officials want to make sure there isn’t a criminal record that might affect eligibility. Although you don’t have a criminal record, you still have to present this form for the countries you have lived in.
What to Do For a Police Clearance Certificate?
A police certificate is a record made by a police department of a country in which you’ve been residing. It displays any arrests you’ve been arrested for while you were there, with all the charges and results of those arrests.
This certificate from the country where you were born (if you were not arrested) is required if you’re seeking a family-based or marriage-based green card from outside the US. This requirement doesn’t matter if you have any record of crime.
Note: You may still qualify for a green card if you have a criminal record. Nevertheless, there are rules and conditions specific to those who have criminal records, and they should be read before applying.
Who Will Need to File a Police Clearance Certificate?
When you apply for a green card from out of the United States, you’ll need to provide a police clearance certificate with your application. This is needed for relatives who want to be immigrants in the United States.
- When do you have to upload it?: If you are at least 16 years old, you have to provide a photocopy of the police clearance certificate to the National Visa Center (NVC). You’ll also need to submit the certificate, either the original or an attestation, to your green card interview.
- What if I’m applying outside the US? You’ll have to bring police records, not a police clearance certificate, if you’re already in the US and seeking a green card via AOS.
What Time Do I Have To Deliver a Police Clearance Certificate?
If you have been in one of the following countries for some time, you need to present a police clearance certificate:
- Your country of origin (if you’ve been there for six months or more).
- your country of citizenship (if it isn’t your nationality and you’ve been there for at least 6 months).
- Any country where you have lived for a minimum of 12 months, at any age.
- You must also present a certificate if you have been arrested in any country even if you have lived there for a while.
How Long Should A Police Clearance Certificate Be?
For accuracy in the document, the police clearance certificate must be under two years old. If it is more than two years old and all of the following are true:
- This certificate is more than two years old.
- You’re still in the country the certificate was issued in, or have moved back.
- If you are older than 16.
- You will then need to get a new certificate before the green card interview.
But what if My Police Clearance Document Isn’t in English?
If the police clearance certificate is not in English, you will need to submit a certified translation as well as the original. This translation must be carried out by a professional service or someone who can assure you that the translation is correct.
Where Can I Get a Police Clearance Certificate?
Your police clearance certificate should be obtained through the issuing authorities of all countries where you have been living. The US Department of State website lists such authorities. And how to find it:
- Visit the website of the United States Department of State.
- Go to the Police, Court, and Prison Records.
- Click your country name from the dropdown, and proceed as outlined to get your police certificate.
- The website will also tell you the current rate and other information for each country.
What If I Do Not Receive a Police Clearance Certificate?
If you can’t get a police clearance certificate as records are not available in your country, you will have to provide a notarized personal affidavit. This affidavit is where you detail how and why you were unable to get the certificate.
Translation Requirements for Non-English Police Certificates
When applying for a green card in the United States, one of the essential documents required is a police clearance certificate (PCC). This certificate verifies an applicant’s criminal history in their home country. If the PCC is not in English, it must be translated into English to meet U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements. Below, we discuss the importance of certified translations, how to obtain professional translation services, common pitfalls to avoid, costs and processing times, special considerations for applicants with a criminal record, and when to start the process.
Importance of Certified Translations
Certified translations are crucial when submitting non-English police certificates for several reasons:
- Legal Compliance: USCIS requires that all documents submitted in support of a green card application be in English. A certified translation ensures that the document meets this requirement.
- Accuracy and Reliability: Certified translators provide an accurate and reliable translation of the original document. This is vital since any discrepancies or inaccuracies could lead to delays or denials in the application process.
- Professionalism: Submitting a certified translation demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail, which can positively impact your application.
How to Get a Professional Translation Service
To obtain a certified translation of your police clearance certificate, follow these steps:
- Research Reputable Services: Look for translation services that specialize in legal documents and have experience with immigration-related translations. Check reviews and testimonials to gauge their reliability.
- Verify Certification: Ensure that the translator or translation service is certified. They should provide a signed statement attesting to the accuracy of the translation and their qualifications.
- Request Quotes: Contact multiple services to request quotes. Compare prices, turnaround times, and customer service before making a decision.
- Submit Your Document: Once you’ve selected a service, submit your police clearance certificate along with any specific instructions regarding formatting or additional requirements.
- Review the Translation: After receiving the translated document, review it carefully for accuracy before submission.
Common Issues and Mistakes to Avoid
When obtaining a police clearance certificate and its translation, avoid these common issues:
- Delays in Obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate: Start the process early, as obtaining a PCC can take time depending on your home country’s procedures. Delays can affect your green card application timeline.
- Not Meeting Submission Deadlines or Requirements: Ensure you understand USCIS deadlines for submitting documents. Failure to meet these deadlines can result in application delays or denials.
Cost and Processing Time for Police Clearance Certificates
Average Costs
The cost of obtaining a police clearance certificate varies by country but generally ranges from $10 to $100. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or notarization.
Estimated Processing Time
Processing times for police clearance certificates can vary widely based on the issuing authority and country. On average, it may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. To expedite the process:
- Check Processing Times: Research typical processing times for your specific country’s police department.
- Request Expedited Service: If available, request expedited processing when applying for your PCC.
Special Considerations for Applicants with a Criminal Record
Impact on Eligibility
Having a criminal record can significantly affect an applicant’s eligibility for a green card. However, it does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining one. Factors considered include:
- Nature of Offense: Minor offenses may not impact eligibility as severely as serious crimes.
- Time Passed Since Offense: The time elapsed since the offense and evidence of rehabilitation can influence decisions.
Can Applicants with a Criminal History Qualify?
Yes, applicants with a criminal history can still qualify for a green card under certain conditions. It’s essential to consult with an immigration attorney who can provide guidance based on individual circumstances and help navigate potential obstacles related to criminal history.
When to Start the Process of Getting a Police Clearance Green Card Certificate
Importance of Early Action
Starting the process early is crucial in avoiding delays during your green card application process. Here’s why:
- Processing Times: As mentioned earlier, obtaining a police clearance certificate can take time. Starting early ensures you have ample time to receive it before your application deadline.
- Translation Needs: If your PCC requires translation, factor in additional time for this step as well.
Time Management Tips
To manage your time effectively:
- Create a Timeline: Outline all necessary steps in your application process and set deadlines for each task.
- Stay Organized: Keep all documents related to your PCC request and translation in one place for easy access.
- Follow Up Regularly: Check in with authorities or translation services periodically to ensure everything is on track.
By doing these things and following the necessary instructions, you can be sure your green card application is ready for scrutiny. If you are not sure of anything or you have a paperwork issue, Law and Visas can take care of all your paperwork issues so you meet the required immigration requirements.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the U.S. straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a T Visa or a U Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you
