U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued an interim rule on incorrect immigration form signatures. The interim final rule gives USCIS the authority to deny immigration forms filed with the wrong signature. The rule goes into effect on July 10, 2026.
The final rule lets USCIS:
- Reject filings for immigration forms if it detects signature errors after intake.
- Keep the filing fee and treat the cases as fully adjudicated.
- Consider the applicant ineligible for the requested benefit based solely on the signature issue.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated the interim rule strengthens compliance with immigration form signature requirements. This is necessary due to the increase in copy-pasted signatures and false signatures on immigration forms. USCIS notes some cases hundreds or even thousands of immigration forms using the same signature.
USCIS considers the following as an invalid signature:
- Signatures that aren’t handwritten (electronic signatures are permitted with prior verification).
- Copy-pasted signature images.
- Stamped signatures (that aren’t allowed by form instructions).
- Signature of individuals unauthorized to sign on behalf of the applicant/petitioner.
As always, Immigration USA actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, please contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws and policy updates. In an ever-evolving immigration landscape, we’re with you every step of the way.