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Unfavorable decision

“Case Was Rejected Because It Was Improperly Filed”on your I-600A · Adoption pre-approval (non-Hague)

Your I-600A was returned without review, for reasons like a missing signature, an old form edition, or filing when you do not meet the basic requirements, such as U.S.
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WHICH STEP ARE YOU ON?
Receipt notice · here
Biometrics
Home study review
Decision
Approval notice mailed

What to do, in 5 steps

Read the rejection notice to find the exact problem.
Download the current form edition from uscis.gov.
Sign every place that needs a signature.
Refile at the correct address for your form.
Check if any deadline makes refiling urgent.
letter
Your deadlineThe one on your letter. Do not miss it.
In this statusThe rejected case stays closed; refile as soon as you fix the problem.

What it means for your I-600A

Your I-600A was returned without review, for reasons like a missing signature, an old form edition, or filing when you do not meet the basic requirements, such as U.S. citizenship. Fix the problem and refile.

In general, on any form:

USCIS rejected your filing because something basic was wrong, like a missing signature, wrong form edition or wrong address. A rejected case is not reviewed and has no filing date. USCIS usually returns the package with a notice. You can fix the problem and file again.

Avoid these mistakes

Using an old form edition.
Forgetting to sign.
Mailing to the wrong address.

Quick questions

What does "Case Was Rejected Because It Was Improperly Filed" mean on an I-600A?

Your I-600A was returned without review, for reasons like a missing signature, an old form edition, or filing when you do not meet the basic requirements, such as U.S. citizenship. Fix the problem and refile.

Is a rejection the same as a denial?

No. A rejection means USCIS never accepted the case for review.

Do I get my fee back?

A rejected package is usually returned with the payment, or the payment is not cashed.

Can I refile right away?

Yes, once you fix the problem the notice describes.

How long does an I-600A take?

The typical range published by USCIS is 9 to 13 months. It depends on the office and your case; it is not an exact date.

Other statuses of your I-600A

Every status of an I-600A →

This same status on other forms

AI-assisted explanation based on the official USCIS status, reviewed by CaseAlerta. Not legal advice. Times are typical ranges, never an exact date.