To fax documents to USCIS, use the fax number printed on the Request for Evidence (RFE), Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), or other USCIS letter. Faxend's transmission confirmation timestamps your response, providing proof of timely submission for the strict response windows USCIS requires (typically 87 days for RFE, 33 days for NOID).
Some specific case correspondence as directed by USCIS letter
Initial petitions (I-130, I-140, I-485, etc.) generally must be filed online via USCIS account or by mail to a Lockbox facility. Fax is for case-specific responses, not initial filings.
Responding to a Request for Evidence (RFE)
RFEs are the most common reason to fax USCIS. The RFE letter:
States what evidence is missing or insufficient
Provides a deadline (typically 87 days)
Includes a fax number for response
Specifies the address for mail response (alternative)
RFE responses must be received by the deadline, not just sent. Faxing provides instant delivery and timestamped proof.
Submit your RFE response on time
Fax with timestamped confirmation. $2.99 per fax, no subscription. Critical for 87-day RFE deadline.
There is no universal USCIS fax number. The fax number for your case is on the specific USCIS letter (RFE, NOID, NOIR, etc.). Different service centers and field offices have different fax lines. Always use the number on your letter.
How long do I have to respond to an RFE?
Typically 87 days from the date on the RFE letter. The exact deadline is printed on the letter itself. USCIS calculates this as just under 12 weeks. The response must be received by the deadline, not just sent.
Can I fax my green card application to USCIS?
No. Initial green card applications (I-485, I-130, etc.) must be filed online via USCIS account or by mail to a Lockbox facility. Fax is for case-specific responses to USCIS notices (RFE, NOID), not initial filings.
What happens if I miss the RFE deadline?
Missing the deadline almost certainly results in denial of your petition. USCIS rarely accepts late responses. If you cannot meet the deadline, contact a qualified immigration attorney before the deadline expires to discuss extension or motion options.
Can my immigration attorney fax USCIS responses for me?
Yes. Attorneys with Form G-28 (Notice of Entry of Appearance) on file can submit responses on your behalf. The G-28 must be on file with USCIS for the attorney to receive responses to inquiries.
Do I need to fax color copies or original documents?
Most USCIS responses accept good-quality copies. Originals are not faxable (you cannot send a paper original by fax). Keep original documents for in-person interviews or naturalization ceremonies. For certified copies (e.g., birth certificates), USCIS typically accepts faxed copies for case review.
Can I fax Form I-907 (Premium Processing) to USCIS?
Yes, depending on the case. Premium processing requests for case upgrades can sometimes be faxed to the service center handling your case. Check the I-907 instructions and your case correspondence for specific submission methods.
Is faxing USCIS HIPAA-compliant?
USCIS responses contain personal information including A-numbers and biometric data references but are not health records. HIPAA does not apply. Use a fax service with encryption (TLS 1.3) for general security. Faxend qualifies.
What is an A-number?
A-number (Alien Registration Number) is a 7- to 9-digit number assigned to each non-citizen by USCIS. It identifies your immigration file and appears on USCIS documents, EAD cards, and green cards. Always include your A-number on USCIS correspondence.
Can I fax USCIS to check case status?
Generally no. Case status is checked via USCIS online (uscis.gov/case-status) or by calling the USCIS Contact Center. Fax is for response submissions, not status inquiries.
How long does USCIS take to process a faxed response?
Initial review: 1 to 8 weeks. RFE responses are typically reviewed within 60 to 120 days, sometimes faster for high-priority cases. Track via USCIS online case status.
What if the fax number on my USCIS letter is wrong or outdated?
Call the USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283) to verify the correct fax number for your case before sending. Service centers occasionally update fax numbers. Always confirm before sending time-sensitive RFE or NOID responses.
Respond to USCIS within deadline
Upload your RFE response, fax to the number on your USCIS letter. Timestamped confirmation as proof. $2.99 per fax.