Starting an immigration process can raise many questions, especially when it comes to understanding what happens after you submit an application to USCIS. Knowing the important documents, processing times, and available resources can help you stay informed and prepared throughout the process.

The importance of your receipt notification

After you submit an application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you will receive a notification known as Form I-797C, Notice of ActionThis document contains essential information about your case, including:

• Your case receipt number.
• The type of form submitted.
• The date USCIS received the application.
• The office in charge of processing the procedure.

It is important to keep this document and any other correspondence related to your case in a safe place. Maintaining organized copies will allow you to quickly access the information when needed.

What is the receipt number?

The receipt number is a unique 13-character code that USCIS assigns to each case for identification purposes. It generally begins with letters such as IOE, MSC, LIN, SRC, WAC or EAC, followed by numbers.

Example: IOE0912345678

This number will allow you to check the status of your case online and get updated information about the process.

How to check the status of your case

USCIS offers an online tool that allows you to check the status of a case at any time. To use it, visit:

https://egov.uscis.gov/

You only need to enter your receipt number exactly as it appears on the notification, without hyphens or spaces.

Among the updates you can see are:

• Confirmation that USCIS received your application.
• Scheduling a biometric appointment.
• Requests for additional evidence (RFE).
• Interview scheduling.
• Approval or denial decisions.
• Submission of final documents.

Even if you check the status online, it is essential to continue checking your postal mail, as USCIS sends official notifications by physical mail.

How to check processing times

Each immigration procedure has different waiting times depending on the type of form and the office processing the case.

USCIS publishes approximate processing times at: https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times

To find the correct information, you will need to select the appropriate form and the office indicated on your receipt.

It's important to remember that these times are only estimates. Some cases may take longer due to the volume of requests, security checks, additional reviews, or requests for evidence.

When can an “Inquiry” be made?

Un Inquiry It is a formal inquiry that can be sent to USCIS when a case has exceeded the normal processing time.

Before submitting an inquiry, it is recommended to:

• Check current processing times.
• Confirm which office is handling the case.
• Check if USCIS has requested additional information.

The fact that a case is taking longer than expected does not necessarily mean there is a problem. Some procedures require additional reviews that can extend the waiting time.

General stages of an immigration case

Although each procedure is different, most cases follow a similar sequence:

1. Submission of forms, payments and supporting documents.
2. USCIS receives the case and issues the receipt number.
3. Biometric appointment, when applicable.
4. Request for Evidence (RFE), if USCIS needs additional information.
5. Interview with USCIS, in cases where required.
6. Final decision on the case.

If the application is approved, USCIS will mail the corresponding document, such as a Green Card, work permit, certificate, or other official document.

Stay informed

Staying informed about the status of your case, keeping organized copies of your documents, and knowing processing times can help you navigate the immigration process with greater confidence. If you have questions or need assistance, contact IACO – Immigration and American Citizenship Organization. Our team can help you evaluate your case, gather the necessary documentation, and guide you through the entire process. For more information, call us at 973-472-4648 ext. 1001 or write to us at [email protected] info@iacoimmigration.orgor book a virtual consultation.