The Sealed Envelope Requirement

Form I-693 must be submitted to USCIS in a sealed envelope. The civil surgeon seals the envelope and signs across the seal. Once sealed, the envelope must remain sealed until it is submitted to USCIS.

If the sealed envelope is opened — even accidentally — USCIS may reject the form. Attorneys who hold Form I-693 in their office pending submission must ensure the envelope remains sealed.

Storage Best Practices

To protect the integrity of Form I-693 while it is in the attorney's office:

• Store the sealed envelope in a secure location, such as a locked file cabinet or safe
• Label the envelope clearly with the client's name and file number
• Maintain a log of when the form was received and when it was submitted
• Limit access to the form to authorized personnel only
• Do not place the envelope in a location where it could be accidentally opened, such as a general mail pile
• Check the envelope periodically to ensure it remains sealed

Chain of Custody

Maintaining a clear chain of custody for Form I-693 is important for both legal and practical reasons. A chain of custody log documents who received the form, when it was received, where it was stored, and when it was submitted to USCIS.

This documentation can be valuable if USCIS questions the integrity of the sealed envelope or if the form is lost or misplaced.

What to Do If the Envelope Is Accidentally Opened

If the sealed envelope is accidentally opened, do not attempt to reseal it. Contact the civil surgeon's office immediately to discuss options. In most cases, the civil surgeon will need to complete a new Form I-693 and seal it in a new envelope.

Document the circumstances of the accidental opening in the client's file. This documentation may be needed if USCIS questions the integrity of the form.