Green Card Processing Time in Texas

What is the current Green Card processing time in Texas?

As of April 2021, the current processing time for Green Card applications in Texas is 4.5 to 9 months.

Are there delays in Green Card processing times in Texas?

Yes, there have been delays in Green Card processing times in Texas. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has seen an increase in cases due to the high volume of applications and due to the coronavirus pandemic. As of September 2020, the average processing time for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is 5 months in Texas.

How can I check the status of my Green Card application in Texas?

You can check the status of your Green Card application online. Go to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website, and enter your receipt number in the “Case Status” section. You can also call USCIS Customer Service at 800-375-5283.

Is there a way to expedite Green Card processing in Texas?

Unfortunately, there is no way to expedite the processing of a green card in Texas. The processing time for green cards is determined by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). All applications are prioritized according to USCIS guidelines, and the processing time can vary depending on the current workload and resources available. However, if you have an urgent need to travel outside of the United States, you may be able to request an expedited interview or priority processing from USCIS.

What factors affect Green Card processing times in Texas?

1. Number of Applicants: The number of applicants filing for a green card in Texas is one of the biggest factors that determine processing times. The more people filing for a green card, the longer it will take to process each application.

2. Application Type: Certain types of green card applications may take longer than others to process due to their complexity. For example, an employment-based green card application typically takes longer than a family-based green card.

3. USCIS Processing Center: Depending on where you file your application, processing times can vary significantly. For example, applications filed at the USCIS Field Office in Dallas generally take longer than those filed at the USCIS Field Office in Houston.

4. Additional Documents Needed: If you are required to submit additional documents to support your application, it may take longer for your application to be processed.

5. Length of Time for Background Checks: Most green card applications require a security background check from the Department of Homeland Security and FBI to ensure applicants do not pose a risk. These checks can take several weeks or months to complete, leading to more lengthy processing times.

Can I contact USCIS to inquire about Green Card processing in Texas?

Yes, you can contact USCIS to inquire about Green Card processing in Texas. To contact USCIS, please call their National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. You can also contact the Texas Service Center directly at 1-800-375-5283.

Are there specific issues causing delays in Green Card processing in Texas?

Yes. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processing times for permanent residence applications vary from office to office, and can be affected by a variety of factors. Delays in processing Green Card applications at the Texas Service Center are often caused by changes in policy or procedure, high levels of incoming applications, and resource constraints. USCIS reviews all applications based on a “first-in, first-out” basis, even if an application from Texas is received earlier than one from another state. Additionally, delays may occur due to a backlog of background checks, security clearances, medical examinations, and other required documents.

How long does it take to get a decision on a Green Card in Texas?

It depends on several factors including the type of Green Card application and the specific applicant’s individual circumstances. Generally, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) estimates that it can take anywhere from between 5 months to 10 years for a decision on a Green Card application in Texas.

What is the average processing time for family-sponsored Green Cards in Texas?

The average processing time for family-sponsored Green Cards in Texas is typically around 11 to 14 months. However, processing times can vary significantly depending on the volume of applications being processed and the specific circumstances of the individual case.

Is premium processing available for employment-based Green Cards in Texas?

No, premium processing is not available for employment-based Green Cards in Texas. Premium processing is only available for certain types of visa petitions, such as H-1B and L-1 petitions.

Are there USCIS service centers in Texas processing Green Card applications?

Yes, the USCIS has two service centers in Texas that process green card applications. They are located in Dallas and Houston.

Can I request an update on my Green Card application in Texas?

Yes, you can request an update on your Green Card application. To do so, you must file a USCIS Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance, with your application. This form allows you to receive email and/or text message updates on your Green Card application status.

What is the USCIS customer service number for Green Card inquiries in Texas?

The USCIS customer service number for Green Card inquiries in Texas is 800-375-5283.

Can I visit a USCIS office to inquire about my Green Card status in Texas?

Yes, you can visit a local USCIS office to inquire about the status of your Green Card application. You can find a list of all USCIS offices in Texas here: https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/find-usclis-office/field-offices/texas

What is the impact of COVID-19 on Green Card processing times in Texas?

The impact of COVID-19 on Green Card processing times in Texas varies, depending on the type of Green Card being applied for and the particular state office. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has recommended that applicants continue to file their applications, but warns that processing times may be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As of April 2021, some field offices in Texas have resumed in-person services, while others are still operating on limited appointment schedules. USCIS has implemented additional safety protocols to protect its employees and applicants. It is therefore recommended that individuals seeking to apply for a Green Card in Texas contact the local USCIS office in advance to inquire about current processing times and to make any necessary appointments.

Are there any local USCIS initiatives to reduce Green Card processing times in Texas?

Currently, USCIS does not have any specific programs in place to reduce Green Card processing times in Texas. However, USCIS has implemented several initiatives to expedite certain types of immigration cases, such as those involving family members of U.S. citizens, as well as those related to certain employment-based petitions. Additionally, USCIS has begun offering Premium Processing for certain types of Green Card applications. For more information about Premium Processing and other USCIS initiatives, please visit the USCIS website.

How to address delays in Green Card processing due to RFEs in Texas?

1. Contact Your Lawyer: If you have an attorney representing you on your Green Card application, the first step is always to contact them. Your attorney should be able to provide specific advice based on your individual circumstances and can answer questions related to the processing of your Green Card.

2. Contact USCIS: You can also contact USCIS directly for information about the progress of your Green Card application. Be sure to provide your Alien Registration Number, or A-number, in any correspondence with USCIS so they can provide you with the most up-to-date information.

3. Respond to RFEs Promptly: Delays in processing are often caused by requests for evidence, or RFEs, from USCIS. Make sure to respond to RFEs promptly and provide all necessary documents requested by USCIS to avoid further delays in your Green Card application.

4. Follow Up With USCIS: If there have been delays in processing your Green Card application, you can follow up with USCIS for an update on the status of your application. You can contact a USCIS customer service representative at 1-800-375-5283 or use the online Request Status tool at uscis.gov.

What is the USCIS online tool for checking Green Card processing times in Texas?

The USCIS online tool for checking Green Card processing times in Texas is called the “Texas Service Center Processing Time Report.”

Are there any legislative changes affecting Green Card processing in Texas?

There are no current legislative changes affecting Green Card processing in Texas. However, the current administration is in the process of implementing a number of immigration reforms that could affect Green Card processing in Texas. These reforms include changes to the immigration court system and a proposal to increase fees for certain immigration applications. It is important to stay informed about changes to immigration law, as they may affect the processing of your Green Card application.

Is there a USCIS helpline specifically for Green Card processing issues in Texas?

No, USCIS does not have a helpline specifically for Green Card processing issues in Texas. The USCIS Contact Center provides general information about immigration benefits, forms, processing times, and other services for customers in all states. If you have specific questions regarding processing times or other specific information, contact the USCIS field office with jurisdiction over your case.