USCIS case status

Case Was Rejected

Needs attentionAlso shown as: Case Was Rejected Because It Was Improperly Filed, Case Rejected Because I Sent An Incorrect Fee

What it means

USCIS didn't accept the filing, for example because of a wrong fee, an outdated form version or a missing item. A rejection isn't a denial: the case was never reviewed.

What happens next

The status detail and the rejection notice say why. Fix the problem and file again; a rejected filing generally doesn't keep its original filing date, so mind any deadline that applies to you.

Informational only, not legal advice. Go by the notice USCIS sent you, and confirm deadlines and options with USCIS or an immigration attorney.

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FAQ

Questions people ask

Why was my case rejected?+

Common reasons are a wrong or missing fee, an outdated form version, a missing signature or page, or filing at the wrong address. The rejection notice and the status detail give the reason.

Is a rejection the same as a denial?+

No. A rejected filing was never accepted for processing, so no decision was made on the case.

Can I file again after a rejection?+

Yes. Fix the problem the notice describes, use the current form version and file a complete new package. The new filing gets a new date.

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