Can You Check Your Case’s Status with USCIS?
February 14th, 2024
Checking for important updates can be very frustrating when you have a case with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. However, there are multiple ways of checking your case’s status.
What is a USCIS Receipt Number, and How Do I Find It?
Your receipt number is a unique 13-character identifier that USCIS provides for each application or petition it receives. The receipt number consists of three letters followed by 10 numbers. For example, the letters can be EAC, WAC, LIN, SRC, NBC, MSC,IOE or others.
You will be able to find the receipt number on a notice of action that you have received from USCIS. Make sure, though, that you omit the dashes (“-”) when entering a receipt number online. Include any other characters, such as asterisks (“*”), if they are listed in the receipt number on your Notice of Action.
How Can I Check My Case’s Status with USCIS?
Individuals with a USCIS case can verify their case status online from their computer or smartphone, going directly to the USCIS Case Status Online Tool page and entering the receipt number of the application they wish to track, which is the unique 13-character identifier assigned by USCIS to the receipt notice sent to you upon receipt of your application
You may also create an account with USCIS at their website, uscis.gov. Once you have created an account, you will be able to check your case status by signing into your account.
Your USCIS account will essentially act as a dashboard for referencing the status and progress of your case. It will also show you any actions taken on your case and any next steps you might need to take.
How to Create a USCIS Account
To create an online account with USCIS, start by visiting uscis.gov. Once there, you go to “Sign In,” and “Create Account” which should be located on the upper right-hand side of the screen. After that, you will receive several prompts that you will need to answer.
You will need to register as the applicant/petitioner, then provide your identification information. Following that, you will need to answer security questions and register your receipt number.
Once you have clicked to “Accept” the terms of your registration, make sure that you receive an email confirming that your account was created. Keep your password and login information in a safe place where you can access it, and be sure never to share that info (except with your attorneys, if needed).
Other Methods to Check Your Case’s Status with USCIS
While checking your case online will be the most convenient way to check your case’s status, you may also check the status of your case by calling them on the phone.
Contacting USCIS by Phone
Most cases’ status can be checked by calling USCIS at their customer service number at 1 (800) 375-5283. Keep in mind, though, that you will be required to enter your case receipt number on your phone. When you check your case with this method, USCIS customer service will only provide you with information available via their website. USCIS customer service agents are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern time but are closed on federal holidays.
In all cases, remember that the customer service person you speak with is not a USCIS official and does not have any more information than what you can see online. Refrain from asking for legal advice as the customer service representatives are generally not qualified to give you legal advice. You should never request legal advice from anyone other than your immigration lawyer.
Our Immigration Lawyers Can Help
If you or a loved one is thinking of filing an immigration petition, our experienced immigration lawyers can help you devise the best strategy for your immigration path, well as prepare, file, and manage your immigration case so that you can leave the complexities and nuances of the process to us. For a case review or consultation, contact FitzGerald Law Company at (617) 303-2600 or fill out our online appointment request.