Immigration checklist

Immigration consultation checklist: what to gather before calling.

Better documents usually lead to better first conversations.

Short answer

Before contacting us, gather identity documents, immigration records, USCIS notices, deadline information, family or employment documents, and any records that may create risk.

BringRelevant documents
IncludeDeadlines and notices
AvoidSending confidential files early
Last reviewedJuly 2026

Informational content only. Immigration rules, fees, forms, and agency timing can change.

Core documents

Most immigration consultations are more productive when the client can describe status history and provide key documents.

  • Passport, visa, I-94, green card, EAD, or approval notices
  • USCIS receipts, RFEs, interview notices, denials, or court notices
  • Marriage, birth, divorce, adoption, or name-change records
  • Employment letters, degrees, transcripts, or resume where relevant
  • Any deadline, interview, court date, or expiration date

Risk-related records

Do not hide difficult facts. Prior denials, arrests, misstatements, removal history, unlawful presence, or tax issues can change the right strategy.

Consultation document checklist

TopicExamples
Identity/statusPassport, visa, I-94, green card, EAD
Agency recordsReceipts, approvals, RFEs, denials, interview notices
FamilyMarriage, birth, divorce, adoption, name-change records
Work/educationResume, degrees, transcripts, employer letters
Risk historyArrest, court, tax, removal, or prior filing records
Planning notes
01

Make a simple timeline

List entries, exits, status changes, filings, notices, and major life events in date order.

02

Group documents by topic

Separate identity, family, immigration, employment, criminal/court, and deadline records.

03

Contact the office

Use the form or call, but wait for intake instructions before sending confidential documents.

Timeline

Prepare documents before the consultation when possible. If there is an urgent deadline, call the office directly.

Filing costs and legal fees

Phone consultations are free. In-person consultations are $250 for 45 minutes. Legal fees for representation depend on the case.

When to contact an attorney

  • You cannot find a required document.
  • A deadline, interview, or response date is coming soon.
  • You are unsure whether a past issue matters.
  • You need help deciding which immigration path fits.
FAQ

Common questions

Should I send confidential documents through the website form?

No. Use the form to describe the issue. Wait for us to confirm how to send documents.

What if I do not have all my records?

You can still contact us, but be clear about what is missing and any deadlines.

Sources

Next step

Talk through your situation with an attorney.

Immigration outcomes depend on your history, timing, and evidence. Gather relevant documents before contacting us so the conversation can be more useful.

(571) 260-7722Contact the office