How do I request to speed up visa processing?

How to Request Expedited Visa Processing

If you are applying for a visa and need your application to be processed faster than the usual timeline, you can request expedited processing from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Contacting USCIS

The first step is to contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. The contact center is open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Friday. When speaking to a representative, clearly explain your urgent need for expedited processing. Provide as much detail as possible, including:

• Your current location
• The type of visa you are applying for
• The reason for your urgency (e.g., medical emergency, job offer)
• Any supporting documentation you may have (e.g., medical records, employment contract)

Using Emma

You can also request expedited processing through Emma, the virtual assistant available on the USCIS website. To access Emma, click on the “Contact Us” link at the top of the page and then select “I need help with my case.”

In the chat window, type “expedite” and follow the prompts. You will be asked to provide information about your case, including your A-number and the reason for your urgency.

Supporting Documentation

When requesting expedited processing, it is helpful to provide supporting documentation that demonstrates your urgent need. This could include:

• Medical records if you are seeking a visa for medical reasons
• A job offer letter if you are seeking a visa for employment
• Proof of a humanitarian need (e.g., a family emergency)

Decision

USCIS will review your request and make a decision based on the information you provide. If your request is approved, your application will be placed in a higher priority queue and processed faster.

Important Notes

• Expedited processing is not guaranteed. USCIS will only grant expedited processing if they determine that your case meets the urgent criteria.
• There is no additional fee for requesting expedited processing.
• If your request is approved, you will be notified of the estimated timeframe for processing.
• If you do not hear back from USCIS within 30 days of your request, you can follow up by contacting the USCIS Contact Center or using Emma.