June 13, 2024
CATEGORY: Immigration
It’s no secret that USCIS processing takes time, and delays are common. We understand playing the waiting game is frustrating, but you should know there are some steps you can take to overcome delays and streamline the process.
Understanding the factors contributing to USCIS delays is crucial for effectively mitigating them. Some of the most significant factors are:
According to USCIS reports, the agency adjudicated nearly 41,000 immigration benefit requests and processed 3,800 applications to sponsor relatives or spouses daily in FY 2023. A higher-than-average application volume can overwhelm USCIS resources and lead to processing backlogs. Errors or omissions in applications may require additional review and take longer.
USCIS provides a backlog report to keep applicants up to date on processing status. As of January 2024, USCIS reports just under 300,000 eligible applicants still pending the scheduling of an interview.
USCIS rigorously reviews applicants, conducting thorough security and background checks. Certain cases, especially those involving national security concerns or individuals with complex backgrounds, might require additional review and investigations. This can significantly lengthen the processing timeframe.
New immigration policies can require USCIS to adjust how they conduct case reviews and complete other processing steps, causing delays while the agency adjusts to the changes.
You might feel powerless to do anything to fight USCIS delays, but you can seek resolution by filing a complaint.
Filing a complaint may be appropriate if:
If you’ve determined your best option is to file a USCIS complaint, follow these steps:
You’ll need some information when submitting your complaint, such as:
If your issue is complex or you believe your rights were violated, consider working with an immigration attorney. American Immigration Law Group’s team of experienced attorneys understands the frustration and challenges of navigating the immigration system. We can assist with filing and following up on a complaint.
Before escalating the complaint, contact the local USCIS or field office responsible for your case and explain the issue. They may get some movement on your case with no complaint necessary.
USCIS has a few routes for accepting feedback and complaints:
After filing a complaint, monitor your case status online or contact USCIS for updates. You can contact USCIS Customer Service to inquire about the progress of your complaint and any actions taken.
Regardless of your filing method, you’ll typically receive an initial acknowledgment message confirming receipt of your complaint, including a reference number. Your complaint will then be assigned to a case officer for review. The officer will review your case and may contact you with questions.
After your case is reviewed, there are a few possible outcomes:
The entire process, from submitting the complaint to receiving a response, can vary significantly depending on the case complexity and backlog.
While filing a complaint or pursuing legal action may not be necessary in every case, it may be justified if you’ve experienced unreasonable delays with no updates or communication from USCIS. You shouldn’t be left wondering about the status of your case when your future is hanging in the balance.
If you’re facing USCIS delays, American Immigration Law Group can help. Our attorneys can assess your situation and help decide the best course of action.
Call 314-416-8000 today or contact us to learn more about our services.