How do I obtain documents back from USCIS?

Question

I was filling for my husband and the paperwork said to send a " a copy of your birth certificate, issued by a civil registrar, vital statistics office, or other civil authority." So i thought that meant like an original copy with the seal and everything so I sent it just to be safe. But that was the only official certified copy that I had. I'm thinking of ordering a new one, but can I also get back my original copy from the USCIS and where do I contact them? Its difficult because I live in California and I was born in New York.

Thanks.

Answer 1

USCIS will not send back any original documents sent to them. If you want an original copy of your birth certificate, you can order one regardless of which State you were born in.

Answer 2

Form G-884 ought to set you up like the other poster mentioned.

And for future reference, I might recommend that you take a look at www.vitalchek.com. Essentially it's an online ordering system for birth certificates from any of the 50 states, and they send them everywhere, so if, so far, it has been a hassle for you to obtain a certified birth certificate like the one you sent USCIS, VitalChek.com will probably be helpful in the future. The price is fair and the service is reliable in my experience.

Answer 3

You file Form G-884 with the USCIS.  There is no fee to file....

http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/m...