USCIS I-797 Form 2026 – Complete Guideline

Form I-797, officially called the Notice of Action, is an official communication sent by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to applicants or petitioners. It serves to confirm receipt, approval, or other updates related to your immigration case.

Importantly, Form I-797 is not an application form itself—it is a notification issued by USCIS.

Types of Form I-797:

I-797 (General Notice of Action)

This notice acknowledges USCIS has received your petition or application. It may also inform you of USCIS decisions like approvals or denials. Retain this notice as evidence of your case status.

I-797A (Approval Notice with Form I-94 Attachment)

Issued primarily to individuals inside the U.S. who have been granted an extension or change of status. This form includes a replacement Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, documenting authorized stay.

I-797B (Approval Notice Without Form I-94)

Issued when USCIS approves an employment-based petition for someone outside the U.S. or those requiring consular processing. This notice does not include a Form I-94.

I-797C (Receipt, Transfer, Reopen, or Appointment Notice)

Used to notify applicants that their petition or application has been received, transferred, reopened, or rejected. Also provides information about appointments such as biometrics, interviews, or fingerprinting. This notice does not confer immigration status.

I-797D (Card Mailing Notice)

Sent along with USCIS-issued benefit cards such as green cards (permanent resident cards) or employment authorization documents (EAD). It confirms the card has been mailed.

I-797E (RFE)

If USCIS requires additional information or documentation to decide on your application, they issue this notice. Timely and accurate response to an Request for Evidence (RFE)is critical to avoid delays or denials.

I-797F (Transportation Letter)

Issued to lawful permanent residents abroad whose green cards are lost, stolen, or destroyed. It serves as temporary boarding authorization for travel to the U.S. but does not replace the green card itself. Final admission is determined by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Check Also: USA Form I-551 Green Card – Complete Guide

Important About Form I-797:

• Keep all I-797 notices safe, as they may be needed for future immigration benefits or processes.
• Read instructions carefully, especially if you receive an I-797C or I-797E, which may require urgent action.
• Form I-797 notices vary widely in purpose; understanding which type you have helps you know your next steps.
• These notices are official proof of USCIS case activity but do not guarantee immigration status unless specified (e.g., I-797A includes Form I-94).

Official USCIS Information:

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on Form I-797 and related processes, visit the official USCIS website:

https://www.uscis.gov/forms/all-forms/form-i-797-notice-of-action

Conclusion:

Understanding the different types of Form I-797 notices and their purposes helps applicants navigate the immigration process smoothly and respond appropriately to USCIS communications.

Frequently Asked Questions: