What to do if my USCIS case is taking too long?

Understanding USCIS Processing Delays and Proactive Action

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes a multitude of applications and petitions, resulting in varying processing times. If you notice that your USCIS case has surpassed the published timeframe, it’s crucial to adopt a proactive approach to resolve any potential delays.

Evaluating the Situation

Before initiating contact with USCIS, assess the status of your case. Consider the following factors:

• Recent Case Activity: If you’ve received a notice or responded to a Request for Evidence (RFE) within the past two months, these actions indicate that your case is still under active processing. It’s advisable to continue waiting for an update.
• Published Timeframes: Refer to the official USCIS website to verify the estimated processing time for your specific case type. Understand that these timeframes are approximate and may fluctuate due to various factors.

Taking Proactive Steps

If there’s been no recent case activity and your case exceeds the published timeframe, consider the following actions:

• Contact USCIS Directly: Reach out to the USCIS Contact Center by phone or through the online inquiry form. Provide details of your case, including your receipt number and the reason for your inquiry.
• Use the Case Status Online Tool: Access the USCIS website and utilize the Case Status Online tool to check the latest status of your application or petition.
• File a Service Request: If you’ve tried contacting USCIS directly and haven’t received a response within 30 days, you can file a service request online. This formal request will prompt USCIS to look into your case.

Additional Tips

• Check Your Mail Regularly: Communication from USCIS may arrive via postal mail. Monitor your mailbox closely for any notices or updates.
• Maintain Records: Keep digital or physical copies of your application, supporting documents, and all correspondence with USCIS. This documentation will be invaluable if you need to follow up on your case.
• Consider Legal Assistance: If you’ve exhausted all other options and your case is severely delayed, you may want to consider seeking legal assistance. An attorney can help you navigate the immigration process and advocate for your interests.

Remember, while it’s important to be proactive, it’s also essential to be patient. USCIS processes millions of cases annually, and delays can occur for a variety of reasons. By following these steps, you can ensure that your case receives the attention it deserves.