; or (B) to a qualified entity if the applicant consents to the forwarding of the application to the Secretary. (2) Evidence of application filing As soon as practicable after receiving each application for blue card status under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall provide the applicant with a document acknowledging the receipt of such application. (3) Application period (A) Initial period Except as provided in subparagraphs (B) and (C), the Secretary shall accept applications for blue card status from aliens in the United States during the 18-month period beginning on the date on which the final rule is published in the Federal Register pursuant to subsection (j). (B) Exception Aliens described in subsection (a)(1)(C) may apply for blue card status from outside of the United States. (C) Extension If the Secretary determines, during the initial period described in subparagraph (A), that additional time is required to process applications for blue card status or for other good cause, the Secretary may extend the period for accepting applications for an additional 18 months. (4) Application (A) In general The application form referred to in paragraph (1) shall collect such information as the Secretary determines necessary and appropriate. (B) Family application The Secretary shall establish a process through which an alien may submit a single application under this section on behalf of the alien and his or her spouse and children who meet the requirements set forth in subsection (a)(1)(B). (5) Adjudication (A) Interview The Secretary may interview applicants for blue card status to determine whether they meet the eligibility requirements set forth in this section. (B) Failure to submit sufficient evidence The Secretary may deny an application for blue card status submitted by an alien who fails to submit evidence of the alien’s eligibility for such status. (C) Notice If the Secretary denies an application for blue card status, the Secretary shall— (i) send a written notice to the applicant that provides the