Greetings, I have been searching here a while, and it has been very helpful, but I thought a post would help, as I am a bit nervous/anxious about the entire process!
I'll start with what I need vs have to apply (sourced from e-safe site):
• Evidence of your Citizenship (no issue; I have my passport)
• Form I-192 (no issue, easy to fill out)
• U.S. Fingerprint card FD-258: (from what I gather, this would be done at a point of entry when I get biometrics done, if I apply via e-safe, which I will)
• Criminal Record(s) (I have this from the RCMP, note, I am in Quebec, so, page 2 has the charge and accusation in French)
• Copy of the official court record(s) (I have this, and though the 'computerized minutes' is officially filled in in French, I did acquire a blank page in English, I just noticed the above being in French a few moments ago).
• Provide a statement concerning your inadmissibility to the United States (I started a letter, I have to finish it)
• Submit any evidence or explanation of reformation of character or rehabilitation such as counseling or rehabilitation programs completed (My crime resulted in 1 year probation, so I am wondering if the above letter would cover this too)
I believe that covers it. So, a few questions:
• I was on the e-safe site, and did not register (yet), but when I do, can I work on my application and save it as I go? ie: I don't have to do it in one sitting/browser session. I understand this is the case, but felt like posting prior. (And, perhaps more questions will arise from me while completing it).
• I have read about reference letters in the past, but do not see any mention of it anymore. And from researching here, now if not asked for, it would just add extra paperwork for them, which would be less than ideal. Am I correct in assuming this?
• Should I be concerned about that tine bit of french mentioned in point 4 above?
• I am presently not working, but, I have applied for an intensive class that is full-time, and lasts 1 year. I am not sure where I would reference this (on Form I-192 under additional information perhaps), and if I should. Would this harm my application in any way?
• Finally, with e-safe, we would provide scanned documents, as it is digital? (Scanned, to be most professional, vs cropped digital camera pictures of the documents). I don't own a scanner, but am happy to go to my local office store to get it done.
• re: my statement, the way it is worded on CBP (point 8 at https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-1769), makes it sound like one letter indeed covers points 6 and 7 above? And, how long/short should it be? My thought are short and concise, but detailed, one page, similar to a cover letter.
I think that covers it. Thanks very much!