What to Do if Your USCIS Case is Taking Too Long?

There’s nothing more frustrating than feeling like your USCIS case is dragging on forever. If you’re in this situation, you’re not alone. Many people experience delays in their immigration processes, especially given the backlog caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. But don’t worry, I will provide you with three practical steps to help speed up your USCIS case if it’s outside the normal processing times.

Step #1: Verify Your Case Status

Before you take any steps, it’s essential to confirm that your case is indeed outside the normal processing times. Here’s how you can do that:

1. Locate Your Receipt Notice: This is a document you received from USCIS when you first filed your application. It contains critical information, including your receipt number and the processing center handling your case.
2. Check Processing Times Online: Go to the USCIS website (https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/es) and use their “Check Case Processing Times” tool. You’ll need to select the type of form you filed (e.g., I-130, I-485) and the service center processing your case. This information is found on the bottom left of your receipt notice.

If your case is within normal processing times, you’ll need to wait. If it’s outside the normal processing window, proceed to the next steps.

Step #2: Contact USCIS for Expedite Request

If your case is taking longer than usual, your first course of action should be to request USCIS to expedite your case. Here’s how:

1. Call USCIS: 800-375-5283
2. Prepare Your Information: Have your receipt number ready and be prepared to explain that your case is outside the normal processing time.
3. Request an Expedite: Specifically ask for an expedite request, emphasizing that your case has exceeded the typical processing timeframe.

It’s important to be persistent and patient. You might need to navigate through hold music and automated messages, but once you reach a representative, clearly state your request.

Step #3: Contact Your Senator

If contacting USCIS doesn’t yield results, the next step is to reach out to your federal senator. Senators have the power to inquire on your behalf and can sometimes accelerate the process. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Find Your Senator: Visit the official website of the U.S. Senate and locate the contact information for your senators. Remember, you have two senators representing your state.
2. Submit a Casework Form: Most senators have a specific form for requesting help with federal agencies. This is often found under a section titled “Help with Federal Agencies” or something similar.
3. Provide Necessary Documentation: Include your receipt notices and any other relevant documents. This will help the senator’s office understand your case and facilitate their inquiry with USCIS.
4. Follow Up: After submitting your request, follow up with the senator’s office to ensure they are actively pursuing your case.

For a free case review with an Immigration lawyer, call

(623) 742-5400

Bonus Tip: Immigration processes can be notoriously slow, and the pandemic has only exacerbated these delays. It’s crucial to remain patient and persistent throughout this journey. While the wait can be challenging, following these steps can help ensure that your case receives the attention it deserves.