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Why Is My Immigration Case Taking So Long?

Why Is My Immigration Case Taking So Long?

From 2017 to 2023, the processing time for a family-based Adjustment of Status (I-485) increased from 7.8 months to 12.5 months. Overall the average case processing time for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processing time increased from 6.4 months to over 12 months. Everyone who applies for an immigration application is being impacted by the delays in processing times: family-based, employment-based and naturalization cases. 

Why Are Processing Times Longer?

There are many reasons that immigration applications are taking longer to process, including changes in U.S. administrations, budget cuts and the COVID pandemic. While the government is taking steps to speed up processing times, USCIS has a major backlog that needs to be cleared before the processing times can speed up.

FAQs About USCIS Processing Times

  • How long will my case take?
    1. USCIS processing times are available on its website: https:// egov.uscis.gov/processing-times.

    • Sign up for email notification of updates to your pending case through an online account with USCIS
    • You can check out the current status of your case using USCIS Case Status online with your receipt number
  • What can I do to speed up my case?
    1. Make sure your immigration lawyer has your current contact information.
    2. File applications and petitions as early as allowed under the law, especially for cases where premium processing is not available.

    • File a petition or application to safeguard your status in the U.S.
    • Ask USCIS to expedite your case if you qualify or if applicable, to premium process your case;
    • Talk to your congressman’s office for assistance; or
    • File a lawsuit to force USCIS to act on your case.
The American Immigration Lawyers Association published this flyer to help individuals understand the current USCIS processing delays, and why cases are taking so much longer. 
Delays In Immigration

As an immigrant, you have rights, and should be aware of your legal rights and protections.

Learn More: Immigrants Have Legal Rights: Do You Know Your Rights?

Immigrants Have Rights:  Talk To An Immigration Lawyer

The immigration attorneys at Godoy Law Office work with you to evaluate your immigration status and guide you in your journey to becoming a U.S. citizen. If you need help with an immigration issue, please contact our office at 630-345-4164.

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