Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States

Jurisdiction: Country: USA | Province or State: Georgia

What is a Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States?

This is a sworn affidavit you complete to confirm you are lawfully present in the United States. In Georgia, agencies use it when you apply for state or local public benefits. This often includes licenses, permits, identification cards, tax benefits, and similar services. The form asks you to declare whether you are a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or another lawfully present noncitizen. You also attach a copy of a secure and verifiable ID. The agency then verifies your status through a federal verification system.

You typically use this form when you apply for something from a Georgia state agency or a local government office. Common examples include a professional or occupational license, a business license, a building permit, or a tax exemption. Many county and city offices require it before they issue or renew a license. Many state licensing boards require it for renewals. You may also see it when you register as a vendor with a government body. The specific office supplies the form with its application packet. Most versions follow the same structure, even if the layout differs.

You need this form because Georgia law requires agencies to confirm lawful presence before granting many benefits. The form lets you make a simple, clear declaration of your status. It reduces the need for extra immigration records at the start. It also authorizes the agency to verify your status using your ID and alien number, if you have one. If you do not complete the affidavit, the agency cannot issue the benefit. If you submit it with missing details, your application can stall.

Typical usage scenarios

You apply for a city business license for a new storefront. The city clerk gives you the application and this affidavit. You check the box that matches your status, attach a copy of your ID, and sign in front of a notary. The city processes your license after verification. Or you apply for a professional license renewal. The board portal asks for the affidavit. You upload the completed, notarized form with a copy of your ID. The board verifies your status and issues your renewal. Or you apply for a homestead exemption on your home. The tax office includes this affidavit with the exemption form. You complete it and provide your ID to move forward.

The same process applies if you contract with a public agency and must register as a vendor. The purchasing office may request the affidavit for the signatory on the account. It can also arise for building or alcohol permits at the county level. Each office decides when to collect the affidavit, but the content they need from you is similar. Your job is to give a truthful status declaration, a valid ID copy, and a proper notarized signature.

When Would You Use a Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States?

You use it any time a Georgia agency must confirm lawful presence before granting a benefit or license. This often occurs during an initial application. It also comes up during renewals. If you open a new business in a city, you submit it with your business license application. If you renew a professional license for a regulated trade, you submit it through the board’s portal. If you pull a building permit as a contractor or owner, the county may require it as part of the permit file. If you claim a property tax exemption on your primary residence, the tax assessor may include it in the checklist. If you sign up as a vendor for a state entity, the procurement office may request it from the person who controls the account.

Typical users include business owners, sole proprietors, and corporate officers who apply for local licenses. Professionals who need state licensure also use it. That includes health, technical, and trade fields under a board’s authority. Homeowners seeking a tax exemption may need it. Applicants for local permits often need them, too, such as building or alcohol permits. Government vendors and contractors often provide it at registration or renewal. Students who request a state benefit or in‑state classification may also encounter a version of this affidavit, depending on the institution’s rules.

You may need it even if you have held the license or benefit for years. Many offices require a new affidavit at each renewal cycle. Others may accept a prior affidavit if nothing has changed, but many still ask for a fresh, signed copy. Expect to complete it whenever the office’s instructions list it as a requirement. Plan to provide it again if you change your name or status.

Legal Characteristics of the Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States

The affidavit is a sworn declaration. It is legally binding because you sign under penalty of perjury. You state your immigration or citizenship status and authorize verification. A notary usually witnesses your signature, and the notary completes a certificate. Your signature attests that the information is true to the best of your knowledge. A false statement can lead to the denial or revocation of the benefit. It can also trigger civil or criminal penalties under state or federal law.

Agencies ensure enforceability by tying the affidavit to the benefit. They do not issue or renew the license, permit, or exemption until verification succeeds. They also maintain records of your affidavit and ID copy. If the agency later learns the affidavit was false, it can void the benefit. It can also report the issue for enforcement. Your notarial act adds another layer of verification. The notary checks your identity and confirms you signed voluntarily. That helps prevent fraud.

Privacy matters here. You provide personal data, such as your full name, address, date of birth, and ID number. If you are not a citizen, you may provide an alien number or admission number. The agency uses this data to verify lawful presence. It also uses it to match your identity to your application. Agencies store this information according to their record rules. They share it as needed for verification, which can cause brief delays if additional checks are required. You should only submit the exact documents the office requests. Do not add unrelated immigration records unless the office asks for them.

The form’s language is straightforward by design. It gives you status choices that match federal categories. Those choices usually include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and lawfully present noncitizens. The final category covers several visa and humanitarian statuses. If you select that category, you list your alien number if you have one. You may also include your admission number or card expiration date. The agency does not decide your status. It carries out a verification based on your declaration and documents.

If you are an officer signing for a business license, remember that this affidavit covers your personal lawful presence. It does not cover the company itself. You, as the applicant or responsible party, must be lawfully present to receive the benefit tied to your role. If a minor or a person under guardianship is the applicant, a parent or legal guardian may sometimes sign. Whether that is allowed depends on the benefits program. Check the application’s instructions before using a representative signature.

How to Fill Out a Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States

1) Get the right form from the agency.

• Locate the agency’s application packet or portal. Find the affidavit they require. Many offices use a standard Georgia format. Use the version that came with your application to avoid a mismatch.
• Confirm if they require a notarized wet signature or accept notarized electronic signatures. Follow their delivery method exactly.

2) Gather a secure and verifiable ID.

• Acceptable IDs usually include a U.S. passport, a state driver’s license or ID card, a permanent resident card, or similar government‑issued documents. The document must be current and readable. If your ID has expired, renew it first or use another valid ID.
• If you are a noncitizen, collect your status document. That may include a permanent resident card, an employment authorization card, or an I‑94 record with a valid status. Have your alien number or admission number ready.

3) Fill in the agency and benefit information.

• Enter the name of the agency or office where you are applying. Specify the benefit, license, permit, or exemption you seek. If this is a renewal, include your existing license or account number if the form asks for it.

4) Enter your personal identification details.

• Write your full legal name exactly as it appears on your ID. Include your residential address, date of birth, and contact details if requested. If your name recently changed, use the new legal name and keep proof of the change handy in case the office asks for it.

5) Select your status category.

• Choose “U.S. citizen” if you are a citizen by birth or naturalization. Choose “lawful permanent resident” if you hold a valid green card. Choose the “lawfully present noncitizen” option if you have another lawful status. Examples include work, student, or humanitarian categories.
• If you select a noncitizen category, enter your alien number (A‑Number) or admission number (I‑94), if you have one. Add the document expiration date if requested.

6) Review the attestation language.

• Read the statement that you are signing under penalty of perjury. Confirm that the information is true and correct. Do not guess on dates or numbers. If you are unsure about a number, check your documents before signing.

7) Prepare for notarization.

• Most Georgia agencies require a notarized signature. Bring a valid photo ID to the notary. Do not sign the affidavit in advance. Sign it only in the notary’s presence.
• The notary will confirm your identity, watch you sign, and complete the notarial certificate. The notary will add a seal and the date. Check that the notary’s section is complete before you leave.

8) Attach a copy of your ID.

• Make a clear, legible copy of your secure and verifiable ID. If you used a passport, copy the photo page. If you used a driver’s license, copy the front and back if the agency requests both. If you are a noncitizen, include a copy of your status card or I‑94, as the application instructs.
• Do not submit original identity documents unless the office requires an in‑person review. If you submit electronically, use a high‑quality color scan.

9) Include any required status details for noncitizens.

• If your status has an expiration date, list it if requested. If your status was recently extended, include the updated card or notice if the office requests it. Make sure your name and numbers match across documents.

10) Check for consistency and common errors.

• Ensure the name on the affidavit matches your ID. Ensure the date of birth matches your ID. Check that you selected only one status category. Verify that your alien or admission number is accurate and complete. Confirm that the notary’s seal and commission date are visible. Illegible copies, missing numbers, and missing seals cause delays.

11) Submit the affidavit with your application.

• Attach the affidavit and ID copy to your application packet. If you file online, upload the files in the formats the portal accepts. If you file in person, bring the originals for review if requested, plus the copies for the file.
• Keep a copy of everything you submit, including the notarized affidavit and ID copy. Save your receipt from the portal or office.

12) Plan for verification timing.

• The agency will verify your status after you submit. This can be quick. Sometimes it requires additional checks, which adds time. Submit early if your benefit has a strict deadline. If the agency asks for more information, respond quickly with only what they request.

13) Renewals and updates.

• Many agencies require a new affidavit for each renewal. Do not assume your prior affidavit will carry over. Check the renewal instructions. If your status or name has changed since the last time, provide updated documents.

14) Signing on behalf of a business or another person.

• If you apply for a business license, you sign as an individual. You confirm your own lawful presence as the responsible party. If you sign for another person, such as a minor or someone under guardianship, confirm the agency allows representative signatures. Provide proof of authority if required.

15) If you cannot truthfully attest.

• Do not submit the affidavit if you cannot affirm a lawful status. The agency will not approve the benefit without a truthful declaration. If you believe the form does not apply to your situation, ask the office before filing. Some benefits are exempt, but the office must confirm that.

Real‑world example: You run a small landscaping company and need a county business license. The county clerk provides the application and this affidavit. You gather your driver’s license, complete the affidavit with your name and address, check “U.S. citizen,” and sign before a notary. You attach a clear copy of your license. You submit the packet and pay the fee. The county verifies your status and issues the license within a few days.

Another example: You are a permanent resident renewing a professional license. You select “lawful permanent resident,” enter your A‑Number, and attach a copy of your green card. The board verifies your status, which may take extra time if renewal volumes are high. You submit well before your license expires to avoid a lapse.

A third example: You apply for a homestead exemption with the county tax office. You complete the exemption form and attach the affidavit with a copy of your state ID. The office verifies your status and applies the exemption to your primary residence for the next tax year.

Common pitfalls are easy to avoid. Do not sign before you meet the notary. Do not use an expired ID. Do not submit a blurry ID copy. Do not leave the status box unchecked. Do not skip the alien number if you selected a noncitizen option. Do not omit the agency name. These are the issues that cause delays and repeat trips to the office.

If you follow the steps and provide clear documents, the process is straightforward. You declare your status, prove your identity, and authorize verification. The agency does the rest. This keeps your application moving and helps you get your license, permit, or exemption on time.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter – Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States

• Lawful presence means you are in the country under the current law. You qualify as a citizen, permanent resident, or authorized noncitizen. This form asks you to confirm that status.
• U.S. citizen refers to people born in the country or naturalized. If you are a citizen, you can state that on the form. A passport or birth certificate usually supports this claim.
• Permanent resident means you hold a valid green card. Your status does not expire, but your card does. You may need your card number and expiration date for the form.
• Qualified alien is a legal category for certain noncitizens. It includes some refugees, asylees, and other protected groups. If this is you, the form will ask for specific details from your documents.
• Nonimmigrant describes people admitted for a limited purpose or time. Students, workers, and visitors fall into this group. You will likely use your admission record or visa details on the form.
• Alien number (A‑Number) is a unique identifier for many noncitizens. It appears on green cards and some notices. The form may request it to verify your status.
• I‑94 admission number is assigned when you enter the country. You may have a paper card or an electronic record. This number helps confirm lawful entry and status dates on the form.
• Affidavit is a sworn statement you sign. You confirm your status under oath. This form often functions as an affidavit, so accuracy matters.
• Notarization means a notary public confirms your identity and signature. Some agencies require the affidavit to be notarized. If so, you must sign in front of the notary.
• Penalty of perjury is a legal warning on the form. It means you swear the information is true. False statements can lead to fines, denial, or other penalties.
• Primary identification is your main government-issued ID. That can be a license, state ID, or passport. The form may require the ID number or a clear copy.
• Supporting document is any record that proves your claim. That includes a birth certificate, passport, green card, or I‑94. The agency uses these to confirm your status.
• Expiration date refers to the end date on a document. Many IDs and status documents expire. The form may ask for this date to confirm your current eligibility.
• Name discrepancy occurs when your name differs across documents. Hyphens, middle names, or prior names can cause issues. The form may ask you to explain or attach proof of a name change.
• Agency file number is the internal tracking number for your application. Some forms ask for it if you are renewing. It helps match your affidavit to your case.

FAQs

Do you need to submit original documents or copies?

You usually submit clear copies, not originals. Use front and back if applicable. Make sure copies are legible. If the agency requests originals, bring them for in-person review. Do not mail originals unless instructed.

Do you have to get the affidavit notarized?

Some agencies require notarization. Others accept an unsworn declaration that includes the perjury statement. Check the signature section and instructions. If notarization is required, sign only in front of the notary.

Do you need a Social Security number to complete this?

Not always. Many forms verify status without a Social Security number. If the form asks, provide it only if issued to you. Do not guess. If you do not have one, mark the box that reflects that.

What if your legal name changed?

Use your current legal name on the form. Attach proof of the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Make sure your ID matches or bring a link document. Consistent naming speeds verification.

Can you submit the form if your status document has expired?

No. The agency cannot verify expired status documents. Renew the document first if possible. If you are pending renewal, include proof of the pending case if allowed. Ask whether interim evidence is acceptable.

Do you need to complete a new affidavit for each renewal or license cycle?

Often yes. Many agencies require a new verification for each application or renewal. Plan to keep updated copies of your documents. This avoids last-minute delays.

What if you do not have your I‑94 or A‑Number?

Check your immigration records for the correct number. Your visa file or approval notice may list it. If you cannot locate it, request a record from the appropriate source. Do not invent numbers or leave key fields blank.

Can you use a foreign passport alone to prove lawful presence?

A foreign passport alone is not usually enough. You also need evidence of status and entry, such as an I‑94. Pair the passport with the admission record or status document. Submit both with the affidavit.

What happens if you answer incorrectly on the affidavit?

False statements can trigger penalties. You could face denial, fines, or other consequences. If you discover a mistake, correct it promptly. Submit an amended affidavit if allowed.

How long does verification take after you submit the form?

Timeframes vary by agency and workload. Some verify within days. Others take several weeks. You can avoid delays by submitting clear copies and complete answers.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States

Before signing

• Confirm the exact form version and any agency-specific attachment.
• Gather your primary ID: state ID, license, or passport.

Gather proof of status:

• Citizens: birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or passport.
• Permanent residents: green card, I‑551 stamp, or approval notice.
• Other noncitizens: I‑94, approval notice, or employment authorization.
• Note key numbers: A‑Number, I‑94, document numbers, and expiration dates.
• Verify your current legal name and date of birth match your ID.
• Collect any name change proof: marriage certificate or court order.
• Check that all documents are valid and legible.
• Identify whether the form requires notarization.
• If notarization is required, plan your signing with a notary present.
• Make clean, single-sided copies of all supporting documents.
• Black out sensitive numbers not requested, if allowed, to protect privacy.

During signing

• Review the status category you selected for accuracy.
• Confirm your name, address, and contact information.
• Enter identification numbers carefully, double-checking each digit.
• Record document expiration dates in the correct format.
• Read the perjury statement and make sure you understand it.
• If you need a notary, do not sign until the notary instructs you.
• Present a valid ID to the notary and complete the notarial certificate.
• Sign using your legal name exactly as shown on your ID.
• If the form has a witness section, ensure the witness is qualified.
• Review every page to confirm no fields are left blank by mistake.
• Attach the copies behind the affidavit in a clear, logical order.

After signing

• Make a complete scan of the signed affidavit and attachments.
• File the affidavit with the agency as instructed.
• If filing online, upload clear scans in the correct file format.
• If filing by mail, use a trackable service if permitted.
• If filing in person, bring originals for inspection if requested.
• Record the date you filed and any confirmation number.
• Calendar any deadlines or follow-up dates.
• Monitor your mail, email, and portal for status updates.
• Respond promptly to any request for additional information.
• Store your signed copy and proof of submission in a safe place.
• Update your internal checklist for future renewals or licenses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid – Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States

Selecting the wrong status category

• Consequence: The agency may reject or delay your application.
• Tip: Match your documents to the category description before you sign.

Submitting expired documentation

• Consequence: Verification fails, and your application stalls.
• Tip: Renew the document or provide valid interim proof if allowed.

Mismatched names across documents

• Consequence: Additional review and requests for evidence.
• Tip: Use your current legal name and attach proof of name change.

Missing notarization when required

• Consequence: The affidavit is invalid and must be redone.
• Tip: Check the signature block and instructions before signing.

Unreadable or incomplete copies

• Consequence: The agency cannot verify, causing delays.
• Tip: Provide clear, full-page copies, including front and back.

Leaving key fields blank

• Consequence: The agency issues a deficiency notice.
• Tip: Review each line and ensure all required fields are complete.

Providing the wrong identification number

• Consequence: Mis-match in verification systems and potential denial.
• Tip: Double-check A‑Number and I‑94 digits against the document.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form Verification of Lawful Presence with the United States

1. Submit the affidavit using the required channel. Many agencies permit online, mail, or in-person filing. Use the method listed in your application instructions. Keep submission proof.
2. If you filed online, confirm your upload includes all pages. Check that the affidavit is signed and dated. Confirm that attachments are complete and readable.
3. If you filed by mail, include the affidavit, copies, and any cover sheet. Use a trackable method if allowed. Note the tracking number and delivery date.
4. If you filed in person, bring original documents. The clerk may inspect and return them. Ask for a stamped copy or receipt.
5. Monitor for updates after filing. You may receive a confirmation, a request for evidence, or approval. Respond to any request by the deadline. Provide only the documents requested.
6. If you spot an error after submission, correct it promptly. Ask if you can submit an amended affidavit. Include a short cover note explaining the correction.
7. If your status changes before approval, update the agency. For example, if you became a citizen or received a new card. Provide the new document and number.
8. Plan for renewals. Many licenses or benefits require periodic re-verification. Keep your documents current and stored in one place. Set calendar reminders 60 and 30 days before expiration dates.
9. Share copies only with those who need them. Protect your personal information. Limit how many copies contain full identification numbers.
10. Retain records for your files. Keep the signed affidavit, supporting documents, and submission proof. Store them securely for future audits or renewals.
11. If your application is denied due to verification, review the reason. Check whether it cites missing, expired, or mismatched documents. Correct the issue and refile if permitted.
12. If processing stalls, follow up through the designated contact method. Provide your case or confirmation number. Stick to the facts and ask for next steps.
13. If you switch application types or agencies, expect to re-verify. Prepare a fresh affidavit and updated copies. Do not assume prior submissions carry over.
14. When your request is approved, note the approval date. Save the approval notice with your affidavit. This creates a clear record trail for future actions.
15. Finally, educate your team if others handle filings. Share this checklist and your template packet. Consistency reduces errors and speeds approvals.