What is Form I-129?
Form I-129, or the "Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker," is a vital document for U.S. employers looking to sponsor foreign workers for temporary positions. This form allows employers to legally hire skilled talent from abroad across various visa categories such as H-1B, L-1, and O-1. It requires comprehensive details about the employer, the job being offered, and the foreign worker, along with supporting documentation. Once approved, this petition enables the foreign worker to apply for a visa, allowing them to work temporarily in the United States.
What is Form I-129 used for?
Form I-129 is an important document for U.S. employers. It is used for the following purposes:
- To sponsor a foreign worker for a nonimmigrant work visa in the U.S.
- To enable a U.S. employer to file on behalf of a nonimmigrant worker for temporary services or labor.
- To support petitions for various nonimmigrant worker classifications such as H-1B, L-1, and O-1.
How to fill out Form I-129?
- 1
Select the correct visa category (e.g., H-1B, H-2A, L-1) based on the beneficiary's purpose.
- 2
Gather required documents, including employment offer details and the employee's resume.
- 3
Complete Form I-129 by filling in the beneficiary's information.
- 4
Include all necessary supporting documents for the chosen visa category.
- 5
Ensure compliance with specific requirements related to your classification.
- 6
Review the form and documents carefully before finalizing your download.
Who is required to fill out Form I-129?
U.S. employers, foreign employers, U.S. agents, and associations of U.S. agricultural employers are responsible for completing Form I-129.
These parties must file the form to classify foreign workers in specific nonimmigrant classifications according to the detailed instructions provided.
When is Form I-129 not required?
Form I-129 is not required for E-2 CNMI treaty investors, H-1B1 Chile/Singapore beneficiaries, or TN classification applicants. Petitions aimed at correcting USCIS errors also do not need this form. Nonprofit entities conducting clinical training for students at higher education institutions are exempt as well. Always confirm your specific situation to ensure compliance.
When is Form I-129 due?
The deadline for Form I-129 is determined by the petitioner. Starting January 17, 2025, only the 01/17/25 edition will be accepted. If you are mailing the form, make sure the edition date and page numbers are visible at the bottom of each page.
How to get a blank Form I-129?
To get a blank Form I-129, simply visit our website. The form, issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is readily available in our editor. Remember, our platform helps you fill out and download forms, but does not support filing them.
How to sign Form I-129 online?
To validly sign Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, you must include a handwritten signature. Typed names or electronic signatures generated outside USCIS's system are not accepted. A photocopy, fax, or scanned version of your original handwritten signature is valid. After filling out the form using PDF Guru, you can download it for your records. Remember to check for the latest updates to ensure compliance with USCIS requirements.
Where to file Form I-129?
To submit Form I-129, first determine the correct filing location based on the visa category. For E-1, E-2, E-2C, and R-1 classifications, send it to the USCIS Lockbox.
Remember, Form I-129 cannot be filed online. You must print and mail it to the designated address. Ensure your form is complete before sending it off.
