Chapter 1 Organization and Content of the Adjudicator's Field Manual.

1.1 Purpose, Content and Organization of the Manual.

Welcome to the Internet version of the Adjudicator’s Field Manual (iAFM) . This manual is a comprehensive “how to” manual detailing policies and procedures for all aspects of the Adjudications Program. The iAFM is intended to be used in conjunction with other reference material, such as the Immigration and Nationality Act and Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations. These other volumes contain unique information and the iAFM is not intended to duplicate or replace them.

The iAFM, as well as the other volumes mentioned above, are included in the USCIS website and i-Link. They are electronically connected through so that you can conveniently flip from one to the other (referred to as “hypertext” links) without having to close one book and open the next. Searching for particular topics among several books is also convenient using i-Link.

The iAFM will provide ready access to procedural and policy materials relating to every aspect of the Adjudications Program. In addition, the iAFM will incorporate all currently valid policy wires and memoranda. The iAFM is an ever-evolving document which will be updated on a regular basis, incorporating new policies or procedures which may have been implemented by USCIS.

The introductory portion of the iAFM (chapters 1 through 9) provides an overview of the Manual and deals with issues of general interest. Part I of the iAFM (chapters 10 through 19) is reserved for generic adjudications issues and deals with the techniques and procedures needed by an effective adjudicator. Parts II through VII of the iAFM (chapters 20 through 79) are reserved for guidance on the adjudication of various applications and petitions filed for immigration and naturalization benefits and deal w ith specific applications, discussing general matters, basic requirements, issues and actions relating to those applications. Part VIII of the iAFM (chapters 80 and above) is reserved for issues relating to statistical reports and administration of the Adjudications program. Where appropriate, a chapter also discusses any relevant special considerations and unique situations. Hyperlinked appendices to chapters provide supplementary detailed information such as standard operating procedures.