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USCIS Case Inquiry

How to Resolve USCIS Case Delays Quickly?

If your immigration case is taking longer than expected, the USCIS Case Inquiry process can help you get updates or address potential issues with your application. The USCIS e-Request tool is designed to help individuals track down missing notices, delayed documents, or correct errors. In this guide, we’ll outline when to use a case inquiry or service request and the steps involved for different types of cases.

When Should You File a USCIS Case Inquiry?

Case Inquiry

A Case Inquiry is available for certain cases of specific cases, such as those that have overrun the normal processing time or where documents are missing. Before making a case inquiry, it is a prerequisite that you first check if your case is within the normal processing time. USCIS has an estimated time for processing in regard to most applications, and only where your case falls outside these limits can you submit an inquiry.

Information Needed for a USCIS Case Inquiry

To submit any type of USCIS Case Inquiry, you’ll need to provide the following information:

  • Receipt Number

  • A-Number (if applicable)

  • Date Filed

  • Type of Application or Petition Filed

  • Email Address

Common Situations Where a Case Inquiry is Needed:

1. No Receipt Notice After 30 Days

One of the first signs that something might be amiss is if you haven't received a receipt notice within 30 days of mailing your USCIS application.To avoid unnecessary delays, it's recommended to always send your documents via priority mail with a USPS tracking number. This allows you to confirm application delivery confirmation at the USCIS service center handling your case.
 

If your tracking number shows that the package was delivered weeks ago, but you still haven’t received the official receipt notice, it’s time to contact USCIS phone contact. Remember, without the receipt number, you won’t be able to check your case status online or submit an inquiry. In some cases, reaching out to a congressional liaison or the local field office may help expedite the process if delays persist.

2. Case Exceeds USCIS Normal Processing Times

USCIS provides posted processing times for each type of application, which are regularly updated. If your case has gone beyond these normal processing times, you should submit an online inquiry through USCIS’s case inquiry tools. It’s important to frequently check the current processing times since they can change, and knowing the receipt date for a case inquiry at the specific service center handling your case can help determine if it’s time to follow up.
 

If you don’t receive a response within 30 days of your case inquiry, you should escalate the request by calling USCIS directly. Keep in mind that you cannot submit a duplicate request within 30 days of your initial inquiry, so be sure to wait for a response before taking further action.

3. Online Case Status Shows Activity, But No Mail for 30 Days

Another situation where you should consider following up is when your USCIS online case status shows that an action was taken (e.g., a notice sent, interview scheduled, or card produced), but you haven't received anything in the mail within 30 days.
 

Sometimes, important documents are sent to outdated addresses or returned as undeliverable. In such cases, contact USCIS via phone or their e-request tool to resolve the issue before any critical documents are lost or destroyed.

4. No Decision or Notice 45 Days After Your Interview

After attending a USCIS interview, it’s common for there to be a waiting period before you receive a decision. Typically, this takes 30-60 days, but if it has been more than 45 days since your interview and you haven't received any communication, it’s time to follow up with the field office where the interview took place.
 

Field offices in large cities may take longer due to case volume, but if the wait seems excessive, you or your immigration attorney can contact the interviewing officer directly via email or in person to request an update.

How to Submit a Service Request for Other Issues?

In addition to case inquiries, USCIS offers Service Requests to address other issues such as errors on your documents, or requests for special accommodations. Here are some common service requests:

Service Request

A Service Request can be submitted for other types of issues, such as disability accommodations, typographic errors, or missing cards/documents.

  • Typographic Errors
    If you receive a document from USCIS with a typographical error (e.g., misspelled name or incorrect date), you can file a Typographic Error Request. USCIS will correct errors they made without charge, but if the error is due to changes on your part, such as a legal name change, a different process is required.

  • Disability Accommodations
    For those who need help attending a USCIS appointment due to a disability, you can request Disability Accommodations. You’ll need to file this request each time you require accommodations for appointments such as interviews, biometric screenings, or oath ceremonies.

Steps for Filing a USCIS Case Inquiry or Service Request

  1. Check Processing Times: Verify that your case is outside of the USCIS normal processing times by visiting their official website.
     

  2. Use the My Case Status Tool: This tool will help you track updates on your case and confirm whether documents or notices have been sent.
     

  3. Submit Your Inquiry: Depending on the issue (e.g., non-delivery of notices or delays in receiving cards), use the USCIS e-Request tool to submit your inquiry or service request.
     

  4. Follow Up: If you don’t receive a response within 30 days, contact USCIS directly to escalate your inquiry.

Filing a USCIS Case Inquiry or Service Request is an essential step to ensure your immigration case progresses smoothly. Whether you're dealing with processing delays, missing documents, or errors in your case, knowing when and how to file can make a significant difference. Be proactive by regularly checking your case status, staying informed about USCIS processing times, and using the My Case Status Tool to track updates.
 

For more detailed steps and further assistance, visit the official USCIS e-Request page and take control of your immigration journey today!

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