What Should You Do If Your Case Is Sent to FDNS?

Receiving a notice that your immigration case has been referred to the Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate (FDNS) can be unsettling. However, it is important to understand that this is a verification step and does not automatically mean your case will be denied. At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, our experienced attorneys provide the assured guidance needed to navigate this process. A referral to FDNS simply means that USCIS is conducting additional checks to verify the information in your application. The best course of action is to be prepared, responsive, and work closely with your legal counsel to address any questions that may arise.

What is the Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate (FDNS)?

The FDNS is a specialized branch within U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) tasked with detecting, deterring, and combating immigration fraud. Its officers are responsible for verifying the authenticity of information and documents submitted in support of immigration benefit applications. A case can be referred to FDNS for a variety of reasons, often triggered by random compliance checks or specific red flags identified by an adjudicating officer. Common reasons for a referral include:

• Verifying the legitimacy of a marriage-based petition.
• Confirming employment details for a work visa.
• Investigating potential discrepancies in addresses or personal history.
• Random selection as part of USCIS’s quality control process.

FDNS officers may use a range of methods to conduct their review, including unannounced site visits to a home or place of employment, interviews with the applicant and petitioner, and checks of public records and databases.

What Steps Should You Take if Your Case Is Under FDNS Review?

If you are notified that your case is with FDNS, remaining calm and organized is essential. This is a critical time to ensure all your information is consistent and well-documented.

1. Consult with Your Immigration Attorney: The first and most important step is to contact your legal counsel immediately. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable support by explaining what to expect, preparing you for potential interviews or site visits, and serving as the primary point of contact with USCIS. This ensures your rights are protected throughout the inquiry.
2. Review Your Application: With your attorney, conduct a thorough review of the application and all supporting documents you submitted. Being familiar with your own case will help you answer any questions from FDNS with confidence and accuracy. Identify any areas that might seem confusing or inconsistent and prepare clear explanations.
3. Organize Your Documents: Keep a complete copy of your entire application and all related documents readily available. If FDNS requests additional information, you will be able to respond promptly and efficiently with your attorney’s guidance.

Cooperating with an FDNS Inquiry

During an FDNS investigation, you may be contacted for an interview or receive an unannounced site visit. While cooperation is important, it is equally important to protect your rights. You are not obligated to answer questions or permit entry to your home without your legal counsel present. You can and should state that you wish to have your attorney involved in any communication. This ensures that all interactions are properly handled and documented.

A referral to FDNS can delay your case, but it is a manageable part of the immigration process with the right legal support. The dedicated attorneys at Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, have extensive experience guiding clients through these complex reviews. We provide the professional representation you can trust to resolve the inquiry and move your case toward a positive outcome.

If your case has been referred to FDNS, contact Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, today.