Overview

Navigating the U.S. immigration system is complex, and having an experienced attorney or accredited representative can make a big difference. But the government will only communicate with your representative if you’ve officially authorized them to do so.

This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about Form G-28—what it is, why it matters, who needs it, how to file it properly, and which supporting documents may be necessary.

What is a Form G-28?

The Form G-28, officially known as the Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, is a USCIS form used to inform U.S. immigration authorities that you’ve chosen someone to represent you. This representative could be an immigration attorney or an accredited representative from a nonprofit.

Filing Form G-28 gives your attorney or accredited representative the right to:

• Communicate directly with immigration officials
• Receive case updates and official notices
• Submit evidence, filings, or legal arguments on your behalf

Immigration: Without a valid Form G-28, immigration agencies will not communicate with your lawyer or legal rep—even if you’ve already hired them.

Purpose of the Form G-28

The main purpose of the Form G-28 is to authorize a specific qualified individual to represent you in the immigration process. It gives them access to your case, lets them receive communication directly from USCIS, and supports them to legally advocate for your application.

Purpose of G-28

• Authorizes legal representation
• Direct government communication
• Protects your privacy
• Required for immigration representation

Why It’s Important

• Gives your lawyer or accredited rep the ability to work on your case officially
• Ensures that correspondence—like interview appointments, RFEs, and decisions—goes to your representative directly
• USCIS or related immigration agencies won’t speak to anyone not listed on this form
• Many USCIS functions require a valid G-28 for legal representation to be accepted

Who needs to file the Form G-28?

You should file the Form G-28 any time you want a qualified legal professional to represent you in immigration matters.

You need to file Form G-28 if:

• You are hiring an immigration attorney to represent you in a USCIS case
• You are working with a DOJ-accredited representative through a nonprofit
• You want USCIS (or related immigration agencies) to communicate with your representative directly
• You want your representative to receive notices, RFEs, and decisions on your behalf

Who is authorized to appear on the Form G-28?

Only certain qualified individuals are allowed to appear as your representative on Form G-28.

Typically, this includes:

• Licensed attorneys in good standing
• DOJ-accredited representatives working for recognized organizations

Who doesn’t need to file the Form G-28?

Form G-28 is required only if you are represented by a licensed attorney or an accredited legal representative. If you are managing your immigration matter on your own, this form is not necessary and generally should not be submitted.

Submitting Form G-28 with the name of an individual who is not legally authorized to represent clients in immigration matters may lead to serious consequences, including processing delays, denial of the application, or potential fraud-related scrutiny by immigration authorities.

Where to File the Form G-28

The G-28 form should be submitted with your immigration application, either by placing it on top of a paper packet or uploading it during the online application process.

Common filing contexts include:

• Paper filing packets (place Form G-28 on top)
• Online filings through a USCIS account (uploaded as part of the case)

How to File the Form G-28 Step-by-Step

Below is the step-by-step process referenced in the article.

Step 1: Fill Out the Form G-28

Your attorney or accredited representative will usually file the form, but you’ll need to review and sign it too.

The Form G-28 asks for:

• Your full name, contact information, and A-number (if you have one)
• Your representative’s information
• The type of immigration case it’s for (like a green card, asylum, or work permit)

Step 2: Sign the form

Before the form can be submitted, both you and your representative need to sign it.

• Your signature shows that you agree to have this person represent you
• Your representative’s signature confirms they are authorized and agree to follow the rules for practicing immigration law.

Without both signatures, the government won’t accept the form. Make sure their signature (attorney or accredited representative) and your signature are both present and dated.

Step 3: Submit with Your Application or Filing

Submit the completed form with your application, petition, or request. It should be placed on top of a paper packet or included in the online filing.

If your case is being filed online through the USCIS website, your representative can submit Form G-28 electronically as part of the online application process.

They’ll upload it using their USCIS representative account, and once accepted, they’ll begin receiving all case updates and messages directly.

For example, include Form G-28 when you file your green card application (Form I-485) so your attorney receives all updates.

Supporting Documents to Include

Supporting documents may vary by case type, but representation-related submissions often require that your attorney or accredited representative can prove they are authorized to act for you.

Common supporting items may include:

• Any case-specific filing materials you are submitting to USCIS
• Evidence required by the underlying petition or application
• If applicable, proof of accredited representative status through a recognized organization