1. What is the USCIS Case Status tool and how can I use it?
The USCIS Case Status Online tool is a free, self-service online tool that allows you to check the status of your pending immigration application or petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This tool can be used by anyone with an approved immigration application or petition, including applicants, petitioners, attorneys, and accredited representatives.2. How do I access the USCIS Case Status tool?
To access the USCIS Case Status tool, you will need your unique 13-character receipt number. This receipt number can be found on any notices you have received from USCIS regarding your case. It will typically start with three letters (such as EAC, WAC, LIN) followed by 10 digits.
3. Can I use the USCIS Case Status tool for all types of cases?
The USCIS Case Status tool can only be used for certain types of applications and petitions, such as adjustment of status, citizenship and naturalization, employment authorization, and family-based nonimmigrant petitions. It cannot be used for all types of cases, such as asylum or refugee applications.
4. How often is the information on the USCIS Case Status tool updated?
USCIS updates the information on the case status tool once a day. However, in some cases it may take longer for updates to appear due to processing delays or other factors.
5. Is the information on the USCIS Case Status tool accurate?
The information shown on the USCIS Case Status tool is based on real-time data from USCIS databases and is generally considered accurate. However, if there are any changes in your case that have not been updated yet or if there are any system errors or glitches, there may be inconsistencies in the provided information.
6. Can I speak to someone about my case status instead of using the online tool?
Yes, you can contact USCIS customer service at 1-800-375-5283 to ask about your case status. You will need to provide your receipt number and other identifying information to receive assistance.
7. What should I do if my case status is not updated or if there are errors in the information shown?
If you notice that your case status is not updated or there are errors in the information shown, you may contact USCIS customer service for assistance. You may also request an appointment at a USCIS field office through their online system or make an inquiry using their e-Request tool.
8. Can I check the status of my case if I don’t have a receipt number?
Unfortunately, you cannot use the USCIS Case Status tool without a receipt number. If you have misplaced or lost your receipt number, you can request a duplicate by contacting USCIS customer service.
9. Is there a fee for using the USCIS Case Status tool?
No, there is no fee for using the USCIS Case Status tool. It is a free online self-service tool provided by USCIS.
10. Can I use the USCIS Case Status tool if my case has been denied?
No, once a case has been denied and the decision has been made final, it will no longer show up on the USCIS Case Status tool. Only pending cases and cases that have been approved or denied within the last 60 days will appear on the tool.
2. How do I create a MyUSCIS account to check my case status?
To create a MyUSCIS account, follow these steps:
1. Go to the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.
2. In the top right corner of the website, click on “Check My Case Status” under the “Tools” section.
3. On the next page, click on “Create a USCIS Online Account.”
4. Choose whether you would like to use your email address or a social media account (Google, Yahoo, or a myspace account) to create your MyUSCIS account.
5. Fill out the required information, including your name, email address, and password.
6. Once you have completed all of the required fields, click on “Create Account.”
7. You will then receive an email from USCIS with a link to activate your account. Click on this link to complete the activation process.
8. Once your account is activated, you will need to log in using your username and password.
9. Once logged in, you can check your case status by clicking on “My Cases” at the top of the page and entering your receipt number or other case information.
10. You can also sign up for automatic case updates via email or text message by clicking on “Case Updates” under the “My Cases” tab and following the prompts.
Note: If you already have an account with USCIS through E-Verify, you do not need to create a separate MyUSCIS account; simply log in using your existing E-Verify credentials.
3. Can I check the status of my case without a MyUSCIS account?
Yes, you can check the status of your case without a MyUSCIS account by using the USCIS case status online feature. You will need to enter your receipt number, which can be found on any notices that you have received from USCIS. You can also call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 and speak with a customer service representative for updates on your case status.
4. What information will I need to check the status of my case?
To check the status of your case, you will need to provide specific information related to your case. This may include your case number, full name, date of birth, and/or the type of case involved. You may also need to provide any recent updates or changes in information related to your case.If you are checking the status of a legal or court case, you may also need to provide the name of the court or specific department handling your case. Additionally, for immigration cases, you may be required to provide your alien registration number (A number) and any relevant receipt numbers.
It is best to have all relevant information on hand when checking the status of a case to ensure accurate results. You can typically obtain this information from any previous correspondence or documents related to your case.
5. Can I track multiple cases on one MyUSCIS account?
Yes, you can track multiple cases on one MyUSCIS account. Once you have created an account and added your first case, you can click on “Add Another Case” from the “My Cases” page to add additional cases for tracking. You can continue to add as many cases as needed to your account.
6. How often is the status updated on the USCIS Case Status tool?
The status on the USCIS Case Status tool is updated every 24 hours. If there are any changes in the case status, it will be reflected on the tool within this time frame. It is recommended to check the status once a day for any updates.
7. What does the different case status mean on the USCIS website?
The different case status on the USCIS website indicate the current stage and progress of a specific immigration application or petition. Here is a brief explanation of the commonly used case statuses:
1) Received: This means that USCIS has received your application, petition, or other document.
2) Under review: This indicates that your case is currently being reviewed by USCIS officers.
3) Request for Evidence (RFE): An RFE status indicates that USCIS requires additional information or documents to make a decision on your case.
4) Decision notice sent: This means that USCIS has made a decision on your case and will be sending the decision through mail.
5) Case denied: If your application or petition is denied, this status will be reflected along with information on how to appeal the decision.
6) Approved: If your application or petition is approved, this status will be reflected along with information on next steps.
7) Interview scheduled: This signifies that an interview has been scheduled for you by USCIS to further process your application or petition.
8) Biometrics appointment scheduled: If you are required to provide biometric data (fingerprints, photo, signature), this status will indicate when and where you need to go for the appointment.
9) Case pending at NVC (National Visa Center): If you have filed an immigration petition for a family member outside of the United States, this status indicates that the case is currently at the NVC and awaiting further processing.
10) Case transfer notice sent: In some cases, after initial processing at one center, USCIS may transfer your case to another center for further processing. This status indicates that transfer notice has been sent to both parties involved in the process.
8. Can I request a change in my case status or expedite processing through MyUSCIS?
No, MyUSCIS does not offer the ability to request a change in case status or expedite processing. These requests must be made through other means, such as contacting USCIS directly or submitting a request for expedited processing with supporting documentation.
9. Will the USCIS Case Status tool show me any updates in my case, such as requests for additional evidence or an approval/denial notice?
Yes, the USCIS Case Status tool will show any updates in your case. This includes requests for additional evidence, biometrics appointment notices, and final decisions, such as approval or denial notices. It is important to regularly check your case status online for any updates.
10. Can I receive notifications when there is an update to my case status on MyUSCIS?
Unfortunately, there is currently no option for receiving automated notifications when there is an update to your case status on MyUSCIS. However, you can check your case status regularly by logging in to your account and viewing the current status. USCIS also sends out physical notices through mail when there is an update or decision on your case.
11. Are there any fees associated with using USCIS Case Status or creating a MyUSCIS account?
No, there are no fees associated with using USCIS Case Status or creating a MyUSCIS account. These are free services provided by USCIS to help individuals track the status of their cases and manage their immigration applications.
12. How can I find out why my application has been denied or delayed?
The specific reason for a denial or delay may vary depending on the application and the agency responsible for processing it. It is best to contact the relevant agency directly to inquire about the status of your application and to ask for an explanation of any denials or delays. You may also be able to submit a request for reconsideration or an appeal if you believe there has been a mistake in the decision.
13. Will my attorney be able to access my case status through their MyUSCIS account?
Yes, if your attorney has a valid account with USCIS and is listed as your legal representative in your immigration case, they should be able to access your case status through their MyUSCIS account. Your attorney may also have additional privileges such as being able to file petitions and receive notifications on your behalf.
14. Can I withdraw or cancel my application through MyUSCIS?
If you have not yet submitted your application, you can withdraw it by logging into your account on MyUSCIS and clicking on the “Withdraw” button for that particular application. If you have already submitted your application, you cannot cancel or withdraw it through MyUSCIS. Instead, you will need to contact USCIS directly to request a withdrawal or cancellation.
15.Can I request an extension of stay or change of status through MyUSCIS?
Yes, you can request an extension of stay or change of status through MyUSCIS. MyUSCIS is an online platform that allows users to create an account and submit petition forms and applications electronically. This includes forms for requesting extensions of stay or changes of status such as Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status). However, not all immigration benefits can be requested through MyUSCIS, so it is important to check the specific eligibility requirements before submitting a request.
16.How long does it typically take for USCIS to update their online case information?
The USCIS processing time varies depending on the type of application or petition and other factors such as workload and volume. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for USCIS to update their online case information. You can check the USCIS website for current estimated processing times for your specific case.
17.What should I do if there is no update on my case after a significant amount of time has passed?
If you have not received any updates on your case after a significant amount of time has passed, it is advisable to contact the relevant agency or organization handling your case. You can reach out through their designated communication channels, such as email, phone, or in-person visits. Request an update on your case and inquire about the reason for the delay. It may also be helpful to provide any additional information or documents that may assist with the progress of your case. If necessary, seek legal advice from an attorney specializing in the specific area of law related to your case.
18.How can I report technical issues with accessing or using the USCIS Case Status tool?
If you are experiencing technical issues with accessing or using the USCIS Case Status tool, you can report them by contacting the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. You may also submit a service request through your online account or by completing Form G-1450 and mailing it to the address listed on the form. Be sure to provide details of the issue and any error messages you are receiving to help USCIS troubleshoot and resolve the problem.
19.Are there alternative ways to check my case status besides using MyUSCIS or contacting USCIS directly?
Yes, there are a few alternative ways to check your case status. These include:1. Use the USCIS Case Status Online tool: USCIS maintains an online tool that allows applicants to track the status of their case. This tool requires you to enter your receipt number (also known as your case number) and will provide you with up-to-date information on the status of your case.
2. Contact the USCIS Contact Center: You can also contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 to inquire about the status of your case.
3. Visit a local USCIS office: If you would like to speak with someone in person about your case, you can visit a local USCIS field office and speak with an officer there.
4. Check processing times for your specific form or application: USCIS publishes average processing times for each type of form or application on its website. You can check this page for updates on the current processing times for your form or application.
5. Use Infopass: Infopass is an online appointment scheduling system that allows you to schedule an in-person meeting with a USCIS officer at a local field office.
6. Contact an immigration attorney: If you have hired an immigration attorney to handle your case, they should be able to provide you with updates on the status of your case and answer any questions you may have.
7. Attend a biometrics appointment (if applicable): If you are required to submit biometric information as part of your application process, attending this appointment can also give you some insight into the status of your case.
20.Is it necessary to have a valid receipt number in order to use the USCIS Case Status tool?
Yes, a valid receipt number is required in order to access and use the USCIS Case Status tool. The receipt number is a unique 13-character code assigned to each individual immigration case and serves as an identifier for the case. Without a valid receipt number, the USCIS Case Status tool will not be able to retrieve any information about the case.