What is a Form I-600?

from the United States

Form I-600, also known as the Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, is a form used by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to identify a foreign-born orphan who can immigrate to the United States. By submitting this form and supporting documents, the petitioner may be able to legally bring an orphan into the United States for adoption.

Who is Eligible for Form I-600?

Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, is for children living outside the United States who have no living parents or legal guardians and who have a relative in the United States who is willing to adopt them. In order to be eligible for Form I-600, the child must be unmarried and under the age of 16. Additionally, the child must be deemed an orphan by both their home country and the United States. The relative who is petitioning for the child must be a U.S. citizen over the age of 18 and must meet all requirements for adopting a child from outside the United States.

What is the Latest Form I-600 Edition?

The most recent edition of Form I-600 is the November 14, 2019 edition.

What are the Required Documents for Form I-600?

The required documents for Form I-600 are as follows:

1. Evidence of U.S. citizenship of the petitioner, such as a copy of the applicant’s driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate.

2. Evidence of the child’s birth and identity, such as a birth certificate or passport.

3. Evidence of the child’s relationship to the petitioner, such as an adoption decree or birth certificate showing the names of the adoptive parents.

4. Copy of the home study report prepared by a qualified adoption agency.

5. Passport-style photos of both the petitioner and the child for identification purposes.

6. Evidence of financial or other ties to the child’s home country, such as letters from family members, employers, or other documents that prove the child’s connection to their country of origin.

7. A statement that explains why the child is considered an orphan and why they must be adopted in order to be eligible for U.S. citizenship.

8. A medical report from a qualified physician confirming the health status of the child and any medical specifics related to their condition(s).

9. A copy of any legal documents pertaining to any legal dispute related to the child’s adoption (if applicable).

How to Submit Form I-600?

Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, can be filed online or by mail.

If you are filing by mail, you must complete the I-600 form and submit it with the appropriate fees and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS office.

Here is a breakdown of what you should include when submitting Form I-600:

1. Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative.
2. Appropriate filing fee – currently $775.
3. Supporting documents as described in the instructions of Form I-600.
4. Two (2) passport-style photos of the orphan applicant.
5. Fingerprint fee, if applicable.
6. Evidence of your relationship to the orphan applicant.
7. Proof of the orphan’s admission to the U.S for immigration purposes or proof of the orphan’s continued presence in the U.S.
8. A written statement regarding any prior adoption attempts, if applicable.
9. Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Representative (if you are using an attorney).

Once you have all of these items, you can mail your application package to the appropriate USCIS office or drop it off at an authorized USCIS location. You can find more information on the USCIS website at www.usicis.gov/forms/form-i-600-petition-to-classify-orphan-as-an-immediate-relative

What are the Filing Tips for Form I-600?

1. Ensure that you have all of the required supporting documentation, including birth and marriage certificates, proof of income, and any other supporting evidence that may be required.

2. Fill out all of the necessary forms completely and accurately. Make sure to include all of the required information.

3. Submit your application and supporting documents in person or by mail to the appropriate USCIS office.

4. Make sure to file your application within the timeframe specified by USCIS or applicable law.

5. If you need help or have questions, contact an experienced immigration lawyer or accredited representative for assistance.

6. Keep copies of all of your documents and correspondences with USCIS and make sure you have a way to track the progress of your application.

7. Pay careful attention to any notices you receive from USCIS regarding your application, including requests for additional information or evidence and be prompt in responding to any such requests.

Are There Special Instructions for Form I-600?

Yes, there are special instructions for Form I-600. It is important to read and follow the instructions carefully, as failure to properly complete the form can lead to a delay or denial of your petition.

The instructions include information on eligibility requirements, what documents must be submitted with the application, and any supporting evidence needed. Additionally, special instructions may be required if you are filing on behalf of an adopted child or you are a citizen of a foreign country. Be sure to carefully read and follow all applicable instructions associated with the form before submitting it.

What is the Form I-600 Fee?

The Form I-600 fee is a fee charged by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process an orphan adoption petition. The fee is currently $775 plus any applicable biometrics fees.

Can I Apply for Form I-600 Fee Waiver or Reduction?

Yes, you can apply for a Form I-600 fee waiver or reduction. To do so, you must provide evidence that demonstrates you have a financial hardship or cannot afford the fee. Examples of acceptable evidence include bank statements, pay stubs, tax returns, and other documents that demonstrate your financial status. The fee waiver request must be submitted with your I-600 application and must include documentation that supports your claim.

What is the Form I-600 Processing Time?

The processing time for Form I-600 can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Generally, processing times range from 4 to 6 months, however, it can take anywhere up to 12 months or longer in some cases.

Form I-600 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Form I-600?
A: Form I-600 is the form used to petition for an orphan to immigrate to the U.S. The form is used by people who wish to adopt a foreign orphan and bring them to the United States.

Q: What documents are required to accompany Form I-600?
A: To file Form I-600, applicants must submit evidence of their relationship with the proposed adoptive child, as well as proof of the child’s orphan status. Other required documents include evidence of US Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a home study, financial information, and other supporting documents.

Q: Where can I obtain a copy of Form I-600?
A: You can obtain a copy of Form I-600 from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at https://www.uscis.gov/i-600. You can also find the form at your local USCIS office.

Q: What fees are associated with filing Form I-600?
A: The filing fee for Form I-600 is $775. Additional fees may be charged depending on your individual situation.

Q: How long will it take to process my Form I-600?
A: Processing times vary based on individual cases, but most applications take 4 to 6 months to process. USCIS will notify you of any changes in processing times due to backlogs or other factors.