1. What does USCIS stand for?

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services

2. How can I check my USCIS case status online?

To check your USCIS case status online, follow these steps:

1. Go to the USCIS Case Status Online page on the USCIS website.

2. Enter your 13-character receipt number in the designated field. This number can be found on any your receipt notices, such as Form I-797 or Form I-797C.

3. Click on the “Check Status” button.

4. The next page will show you the current status of your case, along with any additional details or updates from USCIS.

5. If you do not have a receipt number, you can also check the status of your case by creating a USCIS online account and linking your application or petition to your account.

3. What are some other ways to check my USCIS case status?

There are several other ways to check your USCIS case status besides the online option:

1. By phone: You can call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 and speak to a customer service representative who can provide you with information about your case status.

2. By email: You can also send an email to USCIS at [email protected] with information about your case (such as your receipt number) and request an update on its status.

3. By mail: You can send a written request for an update on your case by mail to USCIS’ National Benefit Center that is processing your application or petition.

4. In-person appointment: If you have an upcoming appointment with USCIS (such as an interview), you can ask for an update on your case during this appointment.

5. Through a representative: If you have hired an attorney or accredited representative to assist with your immigration case, they may also be able to provide updates on the status of your case through their own channels of communication with USCIS.

3. What information do I need to check my case status online?

Once you have your application receipt number (also known as a case number), you can check your case status online. Additionally, you may need other personal information such as your name, date of birth, and alien registration number to ensure that the case status is being checked for the correct individual.

4. How long does it take to get a decision on a case?
The processing time for cases can vary greatly depending on the type of case and current processing times at the specific USCIS office handling the case. Some cases may be processed within a few weeks, while others can take several months or even years. USCIS regularly updates processing times for different types of cases on their website, so you can check estimated wait times for your specific case.

5. What documents do I need to submit with my immigration application?
The required documents will vary depending on the type of immigration benefit you are applying for. It’s important to carefully review the instructions and requirements listed on the USCIS website or in the application forms themselves. In general, you will need to provide proof of identity and legal status, evidence of meeting eligibility requirements, and supporting documents such as marriage certificates or employment records if applicable.

6. Can I travel outside of the United States while my immigration case is pending?
Depending on your immigration status and type of case, there may be restrictions on traveling internationally while your case is pending. If you have an open application or petition with USCIS, it’s important to consult an attorney or contact USCIS directly before making any travel plans.

7. What happens after my immigration interview?
After your interview with USCIS, the officer will review all documentation and information provided during the interview process and make a decision on your case. If additional evidence is needed for further review, they may request it from you at this time. You will then receive written notification of their decision in the mail.

8. Can I change my address while my case is pending?
Yes, you are required to notify USCIS of any address changes within 10 days of moving. You can update your address by filing a change of address form (Form AR-11) online or by mail.

9. How can I check the status of my application if I don’t have internet access?
If you do not have internet access, you can call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 and speak with a customer service representative to inquire about your case status.

10. What should I do if my immigration application is denied?
If your application is denied, you may be able to file an appeal or a motion to reopen or reconsider the decision. It’s important to consult with an immigration attorney for guidance on the best course of action for your specific situation.

4. Is there a fee to check my USCIS case status online?

No, there is no fee to check your USCIS case status online. It is a free service provided by USCIS to applicants and petitioners.

5. Can I receive email notifications when there is an update on my case status?

It depends on the policies of the specific agency handling your case. Some agencies may offer email notifications for updates on case status, while others may not. You can check with the agency directly to inquire about their notification options. If email notification is not available, you can also regularly check the agency’s website or contact them directly for updates on your case.

6. How often is the USCIS case status updated online?

There is no set frequency for USCIS case status updates. Case statuses can be updated anytime there is a change in the status of the case, such as when it has been received, processed, or approved. It is recommended to check the USCIS case status online periodically for any updates.

7. Can I check the status of someone else’s case using the online system?

No, the online case tracking system is only available for individuals to check their own case status.

8. How long does it take for the USCIS case status to change after a decision has been made on my application/petition?

The USCIS case status may change immediately after a decision has been made on your application/petition, but it can also take several days for the case status to be updated. This is because the USCIS case status is dependent on the processing time of your specific application and the accuracy of information provided. In some cases, it may take up to two weeks for the case status to be updated. If you have not received an update on your case status after this time period, you can contact USCIS directly for more information.

9. What should I do if the USCIS Case Status Check system shows that my application/petition was denied or rejected?

If your application/petition was denied or rejected by USCIS, you need to carefully review the reason for the denial or rejection in the notification you received. If there is a way to address and correct any errors or deficiencies in your application, you may be able to file an appeal or a motion to reopen or reconsider. However, if your application was denied due to eligibility requirements that cannot be corrected, such as being out of status at the time of filing, your only option may be to reapply in the future when you meet all the necessary qualifications.
It is recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney if your case has been denied or rejected by USCIS. They can help you assess your options and guide you through the next steps. You may also request a review of your case through USCIS’s Customer Service line at 1-800-375-5283 or by scheduling an appointment at a local USCIS field office.

10. Can I submit additional evidence or documents through the USCIS Case Status Check system?

No, the USCIS Case Status Check system is for accessing information about your case only. To submit additional evidence or documents, you must follow the instructions provided by USCIS in a notice or request for evidence (RFE). This may involve mailing in physical copies of the documents or submitting them through an online portal such as myUSCIS. It is important to carefully follow the instructions provided by USCIS and to submit any requested evidence within the specified timeframe.

11. What types of cases can be checked using the online system?

The types of cases that can be checked using the online system will likely vary depending on the specific court or government agency that offers the service. Generally, these may include traffic violations, criminal cases, civil lawsuits, family court cases, small claims court cases, and other legal matters. You may need to provide a case number or personal information such as your name and date of birth to access a specific case record.

12. Can I request expedited processing through the Case Status Check system?

No, expedited processing requests cannot be made through the Case Status Check system. Expedited processing is only granted in certain circumstances and must be requested by the applicant in writing to USCIS. More information on expedited processing can be found on USCIS’s website.

13. What happens if there is a technical error while checking my case status online?

If there is a technical error while checking your case status online, try refreshing the page or trying again at a later time. If the issue persists, you can contact the appropriate agency or department for assistance.

14. Who should I contact if there is incorrect information shown on my case status?

You should contact your lawyer or the immigration office handling your case. They will be able to help you correct any incorrect information shown on your case status.

15. Will all types of immigration petitions and applications have an online case status?

No, not all types of immigration petitions and applications will have an online case status. USCIS is continuously expanding its online services to more types of cases, but for some cases, it may still be necessary to reach out to USCIS directly for updates on the status of the case. Examples of cases that currently do not have online case status include asylum applications and certain types of humanitarian applications.

16.Can I use a mobile device to check my USCIS case status online?

Yes, you can use a mobile device to check your USCIS case status online. USCIS has a mobile app that allows users to track their case status, receive updates and notifications, and access helpful resources. You can also access the online case status tracking system through any internet browser on your mobile device.

17.What happens if the website is down or experiencing technical difficulties while checking my case status?

If the website is down or experiencing technical difficulties, you may not be able to check your case status at that time. In this case, you should try again later or contact the appropriate government agency for assistance. It is also possible that temporary service disruptions may occur due to maintenance or other unforeseen factors.

18.How long does it take for USCIS to receive and process applications/petitions before updating their case statuses?

The processing time for applications and petitions can vary depending on the specific type of application or petition, the service center or office handling the case, and other factors such as backlogs or incomplete submissions. Generally, USCIS aims to process most applications within a certain timeframe, which can range from a few weeks to several months. Applicants can check current processing times for their specific type of application/petition on the USCIS website. Once an application is received by USCIS, it typically takes 1-2 weeks for the case status to be updated online.

19.Is there a way to receive paper copies of any updates on my case instead of checking online?

Yes, you can request paper copies of updates on your case by contacting the court where your case is being heard. You will need to provide your case number and other identifying information. There may be a fee for this service.

20.Can I track multiple cases under one account in the Case Status Check system?

Yes, you can track multiple cases under one account in the Case Status Check system. You can input the receipt numbers or case numbers for each case and track their status simultaneously. This feature is useful for individuals who have filed multiple immigration applications and want to keep track of all their cases in one place.