1. What is a USCIS case status?

A USCIS case status is the current status of an individual’s immigration application or petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It can be checked online through the USCIS website or by calling the USCIS contact center. The case status will provide information such as receipt of the application, whether additional evidence is required, if an interview has been scheduled, and if a decision has been made on the case.

2. How do I check the status of my I-130 petition?

To check the status of your I-130 petition, you can visit the USCIS website and use their online case status tool. You will need your receipt number, which is found on your Form I-797 Notice of Action, to access the status of your petition. Alternatively, you can call the USCIS customer service line at 1-800-375-5283 and speak with a representative about the status of your petition.

It is important to note that it may take several months for USCIS to process your I-130 petition and provide a decision. If it has been longer than the estimated processing time for your specific case, you may consider contacting USCIS for an update or seeking assistance from an immigration attorney.

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

The specific information needed to check your case status may vary depending on the type of case and the country in which it is being processed. In general, you will likely need:

1. Case or receipt number: This is a unique identifier assigned to your case by the government agency responsible for processing it.

2. Date of birth: You will typically need to provide your full date of birth to confirm your identity and access your case information.

3. Last name: This is another piece of identifying information used to match your case with your records.

4. Country of origin: If you are checking the status of a visa or immigration case, you may need to specify your country of origin.

5. Type of case: Some online portals may require you to select the type of case you have, such as visa, green card, work permit, or citizenship application.

6. Personal identification number (PIN): If you created an account or submitted an application online, you may have been assigned a PIN that allows you to access your case information.

7. Contact information: Depending on the system, you may also be asked for email address, phone number, or mailing address associated with your case.

It’s important to follow the instructions provided by the government agency carefully and provide all required information accurately to ensure that you can access up-to-date information about your case status.

4. Can I check the status of my case online?

Yes, you can check the status of your case online through the website of the court or government agency handling your case. You may need to create an account and sign in to access your case information. Alternatively, you can also call or visit the office handling your case for updates on its status.

5. How long does it take for USCIS to update the case status?

USCIS typically updates the case status within 7-10 business days after a change is made to the case. However, this timeline may vary depending on the complexity of the case and processing times at USCIS. It is best to regularly check the case status online for any updates or to contact USCIS for more specific information about your case.

6. What does each possible USCIS case status mean?

1. Acceptance: This means that USCIS has received your application and has begun reviewing it.
2. Initial Review: This means that your application is being processed and reviewed by an immigration officer.
3. Request for Evidence (RFE): This means that USCIS needs more information or evidence to make a decision on your case.
4. Response to RFE Received: This means that USCIS has received your response to the RFE and is reviewing it.
5. Decision: This means that USCIS has made a decision on your case, either approving or denying it.
6. Post-Decision Activity: This can mean various things depending on the case, such as a notice of approval being sent, further background checks being conducted, or additional documentation required before finalizing the decision.
7. Notice Explaining USCIS’ Actions were Mailed: This means that USCIS has mailed you a notice explaining their decision and providing any next steps if applicable.
8. Case Approved/Case Denied: These are self-explanatory – they indicate whether your case was approved or denied by USCIS.
9. Request for Premium Processing Services was mailed: This means that you have applied for premium processing (expedited processing) of your case and the request has been sent to the appropriate office for processing.


10. Card/document production ordered: If you applied for a card or document such as a green card or work permit, this means that USCIS has approved your application and is in the process of producing the physical card/document.
11. Fingerprint fee received: This indicates that USCIS has received payment for biometric services if required for your case.
12. Biometrics Appointment scheduled: If biometric services are required for your case, this will indicate when and where you should go to complete them.
13. Case Rejected/Error Notice Generated: This means that there was an error with your application and it could not be processed. USCIS will usually provide details on how to correct the error and resubmit your application.
14. Case Transferred: This means that another USCIS office will now handle your case, often due to a change in jurisdiction or workload balancing.
15. Case In Suspense: This can mean different things depending on the case, but generally indicates that there is an unresolved issue or pending action from either USCIS or the applicant.

7. Will USCIS contact me if there is an update on my case?

Yes, USCIS will typically contact you via mail if there is an update on your case. This could include any requests for additional evidence, decisions on your application, or notifications of interviews or appointments. It is important to make sure that USCIS has your current mailing address on file to ensure that you receive any updates on your case. You can also check the status of your case online through the USCIS Case Status Online tool.

8. Can I request an expedited review of my I-130 petition?

Yes, you can request an expedited review of your I-130 petition in certain circumstances. The USCIS may approve an expedited review if there is a valid reason such as the petitioner or beneficiary’s serious illness or injury, or a financial loss to either party if the petition is not approved quickly. You must provide evidence and documentation supporting your request for an expedited review.

9. What happens after USCIS updates the case status to “Case Was Approved”?

After USCIS updates the case status to “Case Was Approved,” the applicant will receive an approval notice in the mail. This approval notice will contain information about the next steps, such as when and how to receive their permanent residency card or travel document (if applicable). The applicant may also be required to attend an interview or provide additional documentation before receiving their official green card. Once the green card is received, the applicant can then start living and working in the United States as a permanent resident.

10. How can I get more information about my pending I-130 petition?

You can check the status of your I-130 petition by contacting USCIS via phone or email. You can also create an account on the USCIS website and track the progress of your case online. If you have an attorney representing you, they can also provide updates and information about your case. Additionally, USCIS has a Case Status Online tool that allows you to receive automatic updates and notifications about your case status via text message or email.

11. Can I track the processing time for my specific USCIS office or service center?

Yes, USCIS posts current processing times for different types of applications and petitions on their website. You can search for the specific form you submitted and the corresponding processing time for your local office or service center. It is important to note that the processing times are only estimates and may vary depending on various factors such as the complexity of your case, any requests for additional evidence, or a higher caseload at your local office or service center.

12. Is it normal to see multiple updates or changes in the case status during processing?

Yes, it is normal to see multiple updates or changes in the case status during processing. This is because processing times can vary and there may be necessary steps or procedures that need to be completed in order for the case to move through the system. It is important to continue monitoring the status of your case and following any instructions or requests from the relevant agency or department.

13. My case has been transferred to another USCIS office, what does this mean?

If your case has been transferred to another USCIS office, it means that the original office where it was received does not have jurisdiction over your case. This may be due to various reasons such as workload balancing or geographical considerations. Your case will now be handled by the new USCIS office and you should continue to wait for updates on the status of your case from that office.

14. Will changing employers affect the status of my pending I-130 petition?

No, changing employers should not affect the status of your pending I-130 petition, as it is a separate process from employment. Your current employer has no influence on your family-based immigration application. However, if there are any changes in your personal circumstances (such as a change of address or marital status), you should notify USCIS to ensure that all communications and updates regarding your petition are sent to the correct address.

15.What documents should be included with a Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative?

1. Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status: This can include a copy of the petitioner’s birth certificate, passport, Certificate of Naturalization/Citizenship, or green card.

2. Proof of relationship with the beneficiary: For spouses, a marriage certificate is required. For parents, a birth certificate showing parental relationship is necessary. For children, a birth certificate displaying parent-child relationship is needed.

3. Evidence of petitioning relative’s ability to financially support the beneficiary: The petitioner must provide proof of income such as pay stubs, bank statements, and/or employment verification letter.

4. If the petitioner is unable to meet financial requirements, they must provide an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) from a joint sponsor who meets the minimum income requirements.

5. Copy of Divorce Decree(s): If either the petitioner or beneficiary were previously married and are now divorced, documentation must be provided for all previous marriages.

6. Valid identification documents for both parties: This includes copies of government-issued IDs such as passports or driver’s licenses.

7. Completed Form G-325A for both the beneficiary and petitioner: This provides biographical information about each person involved in the petition.

8. Other relevant supporting documents: This may include evidence that proves a bona fide marriage if applying for a spouse (e.g., joint bank account statements, photos together), or proof that the parent-child relationship is legitimate (e.g., birth certificates).

9. Filing Fees: The current fee for filing Form I-130 is $535 and can be paid by check or money order to “U.S.Department of Homeland Security.”

10.Personal statement/letter explaining reasons for filing the petition: This can help clarify any discrepancies or provide additional information that may not have been requested on other forms.

11.Passport-style photographs: Both the petitioner and beneficiary should provide two identical color photos taken within 30 days of filing.

12.Evidence of legal name changes: If the petitioner or beneficiary has changed their name, documentation must be provided (e.g., marriage certificate, court order).

13.Translations: If any documents are not in English, a certified translation should be provided.

14.Spouse’s criminal record: If the beneficiary is applying for a spouse visa, they must submit a copy of their police certificate from each country where they have lived for more than six months since the age of 16.

15.Other supporting documents as necessary: Depending on your specific circumstances (e.g., previous immigration violations), additional evidence may be required. It is always best to consult an immigration attorney for guidance.

16. What should I do if my address changes while my petition is pending?

You must inform USCIS of your change of address within 10 days of moving by completing a Change of Address form (Form AR-11) online or by mail. You should also submit a Change of Address request to the USCIS office handling your petition, as well as any other offices that are handling any other related requests or applications. Failure to notify USCIS of a change in address could result in delays or complications with your case.

17. Can I make changes or corrections to a submitted Form I-130?

Yes, you can make changes or corrections to a submitted Form I-130 by writing a letter to the USCIS explaining the needed changes or corrections. You should include your name, date of birth, and the receipt number (if known), along with a detailed explanation of the changes or corrections needed. You must also provide evidence to support the requested changes or corrections. The USCIS will review your request and determine whether it can be approved without requiring you to submit a new Form I-130. If the changes are minor, they may be able to make the necessary updates without further action from you. However, if significant changes are needed, they may ask you to submit a new Form I-130 with the appropriate corrections.

18.Can someone else check the status of my visa or green card application for me?

No, you are the only one who can check the status of your own visa or green card application. You can use the tracking number provided to you by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to check the status of your application online or by calling their customer service hotline. It is important to keep this information confidential and not share it with anyone else for security reasons.

19.Will receiving public assistance affect the outcome of my immigration petition?

It is possible that receiving public assistance could affect the outcome of certain immigration petitions. For example, if you are applying for a marriage-based visa and your US citizen spouse is sponsoring you, receiving public assistance may indicate that you are likely to become a “public charge” (someone who is primarily dependent on government assistance) and therefore may make your petition more difficult to approve.

In general, immigration officials will consider an applicant’s ability to support themselves and their dependents financially when making decisions on immigration petitions. If an individual is deemed likely to become a public charge, it may be considered a negative factor in the decision-making process.

However, receiving public assistance does not automatically disqualify someone from being eligible for an immigration benefit. Each case is assessed individually, taking into account all relevant factors and evidence presented by the applicant. It is important to disclose any public assistance received on your immigration application and to provide explanations or evidence as necessary to support your case.

If you are concerned about how receiving public assistance may affect your specific immigration petition, it is best to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for guidance.

20.Can having a criminal record impact the approval of an immigration petition filed on behalf of a family member?

Yes, having a criminal record can potentially impact the approval of an immigration petition filed on behalf of a family member. In general, individuals with certain types of criminal convictions may be deemed inadmissible to the United States and therefore unable to enter the country or apply for permanent residency. However, this will depend on the specific circumstances of the conviction and whether it falls under one of the grounds for inadmissibility, such as crimes involving moral turpitude or drug offenses.

If an individual is found to be inadmissible based on their criminal record, they may still have options available to them, such as a waiver of inadmissibility. It is important for anyone with a criminal record who is seeking to file an immigration petition on behalf of a family member to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for guidance and assistance.