how important is I20?

Q

qaplus

Registered Users (C)
Hello friends,

My situation is like this: 14 years ago I came to US on a F1 visa, then went back home 2 years later after I finished study. 5 years ago I went to US again to study in another university, and then working on H1 and applying GC now.

Recently INS issued a RFE for I20 and transcripts for my entire F1 status. I have the request documents for the 2nd F1, but I lost the I20 for the 1st F1. I do have transcripts and diploma though. The university I studied 14 years ago cannot help because they said they destory documents after a couple of years, thus don't have my I20 in file anymore.

Could I reply the RFE without the first I20? It seems I don't have a choice. :( Will my case be denied because of the missing I20?

Thanks in advance.
 
What can you do?

1) Talk to your Laywer and see what he says
2) If the lawyer is not helpful, send all info about your second F1 and then attach a letter with pretty much the same info you have here (written up nicely) and say that you have the diploma etc (send copies of those) but not the I20 as you have lost it.

Since the first I20 is more than 12 years old and you did go back after the course I suppose you will not be penalised for not holding on to a piece of paper that (at that time was of no use to you). I believe the INS will not deny your case just because of the lack of your earlier I20.

Please consult a lawyer if you can as my argument/advice is just that advice from a lay person and not a lawyer
 
As psmith said ..they can't deny bcos of missing a piece of I20 paper .. I was a student too 12 years ago here in US and I know that university keeps records, so get a letter from "Registrar" saying that you are enrolled from so & so dates as F1 student ..
And also attach a copy of F1 visa stamp on your passport & Your Transcripts.. I guess you need compose a nice letter, so that INS understands //
 
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