Ever heard of a “Letter to USCIS Clarifying Intent/Purpose of Stay?” It’s basically a document you send to US Citizenship and Immigration Services. You use it when you need to explain something. This could be about your visa application or immigration status. It often happens when there’s missing information. Sometimes, USCIS needs more details from you.
Writing this letter can feel overwhelming. Especially when you aren’t sure what to write. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! We’ll share templates, examples, and samples. You can use these to get started.
These samples make writing much easier. They will help you explain why you’re in the US. Or they can help you clarify your intentions. Let’s jump into these helpful samples!
Letter To Uscis Clarifying Intent/Purpose Of Stay
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address, if known, otherwise leave blank]
Re: [Your Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if applicable]
Clarification of Intent/Purpose of Stay
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to clarify the purpose of my stay in the United States. I am currently in the U.S. on a [Visa Type, e.g., B-2 visa, F-1 visa].
My intended purpose for being in the United States is [Clearly and concisely state the reason for your stay. Be specific. Examples: tourism, visiting family, attending a specific educational program, medical treatment, etc.].
For example:
I am here as a tourist visiting various historical sites and national parks. My itinerary includes visiting the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and several historical landmarks in Washington, D.C. I intend to return to my home country on or before [Date].
Or:
I am visiting my daughter, [Daughter’s Name], and her family. I plan to assist her with childcare and household tasks while she recovers from a recent surgery. I will be staying with her at [Daughter’s Address] and will return to my home country on or before [Date].
I want to assure you that I fully intend to abide by the terms of my visa and will depart the United States before my authorized stay expires. I am not intending to [Specifically state what you are NOT intending to do, e.g., seek employment, enroll in a full-time academic program without authorization, or remain in the U.S. permanently].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope this clarifies my intentions. Please let me know if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To USCIS Clarifying Intent/Purpose Of Stay
Subject Line: Conciseness is Key
The subject line is prime real estate; use it judiciously. It should telegraph the letter’s purpose immediately.
- Include your USCIS receipt number.
- Clearly state the purpose: “Clarification of Intent for [Applicant Name] – [Receipt Number].”
- Avoid ambiguity; preempt any confusion.
Salutation: A Formal Overture
Formality sets the tone. Err on the side of deference, even if you feel flustered by the request.
- Address the letter to “USCIS Officer” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
- Avoid using specific names unless you have direct prior communication.
- A courteous “Dear” is always the right choice.
Introduction: Establishing Context
The introduction is your opportunity to provide context, concisely yet comprehensively.
- Reiterate your name and receipt number.
- State your intent: “This letter serves to clarify my purpose of stay in the United States, as initially outlined in my application for [Visa Type/Application Type].”
- Acknowledge the request for clarification, demonstrating responsiveness.
Body Paragraphs: Elucidating Your Intent
The body paragraphs are the nucleus of your letter. Be specific, candid, and unequivocal.
- Clearly state your reason for being in the U.S. Be forthright; dissimulation is counterproductive.
- Provide concrete examples. Instead of “I plan to study hard,” say “I intend to enroll in [Specific Course] at [University Name] starting [Date], focusing on [Area of Study].”
- Substantiate claims with supplementary documentation, if applicable.
- Address any potential ambiguities that may have arisen from your initial application; preemptively dispel doubts.
Addressing Potential Concerns: Anticipating Disquiet
Preemptive action can mitigate potential misinterpretations. Address hypothetical anxieties head-on.
- If applicable, explain any changes in circumstances since your initial application.
- Reassure USCIS of your commitment to abide by the terms of your visa/status.
- Explicitly state your intention to depart the U.S. upon expiration of your authorized stay, if applicable.
Supporting Documentation: Reinforcing Your Narrative
Bolster your claims with tangible evidence. This lends credence to your declarations.
- Include copies of relevant documents, such as university acceptance letters, employment contracts, or financial statements.
- Clearly label each document in an appendix; cross-reference them in your letter.
- Ensure all documents are legible and translated into English, if necessary.
Conclusion: A Graceful Denouement
The conclusion is your final opportunity to leave a positive impression. Be concise and courteous.
- Reiterate your willingness to provide additional information, should it be necessary.
- Express gratitude for their time and consideration.
- Use a formal closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”
- Sign your name (preferably in blue or black ink) above your typed name.
Frequently Asked Questions: Letter to USCIS Clarifying Intent/Purpose of Stay
This section addresses common questions regarding letters submitted to USCIS to clarify the intent or purpose of a stay in the United States.
Understanding these clarifications can significantly impact the outcome of your immigration case.
Why would I need to write a letter clarifying my intent/purpose of stay?
You may need to submit a letter clarifying your intent if USCIS requires further information to determine your eligibility for a visa, extension of stay, or change of status.
What information should I include in my letter?
Your letter should clearly and concisely explain your reasons for being in the U.S., your intended activities, and how you comply with the terms of your visa or immigration status.
How formal should the letter be?
The letter should be formal and professional, using proper grammar and spelling. Avoid slang and colloquialisms.
Should I include any supporting documents with my letter?
Yes, include any supporting documents that strengthen your explanation, such as travel itineraries, employment letters, or educational records.
Where should I send the letter?
Send the letter to the USCIS office that requested the information or the address specified in any official communication you received from USCIS.
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