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Anyone wishing to immigrate to the United States must go through a process of applying for permits and visas, which is handled by USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services).
It is therefore very important to be familiar with how it works and its processing times to avoid future problems with the U.S. government.
What is USCIS?
The acronym USCIS stands for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This office is part of the Department of Homeland Security and is responsible for providing all services related to citizenship, immigration, humanitarian programs, and much more.
USCIS is responsible for carrying out the entire processing of immigrant visa applications for various reasons and categories, and it makes eligibility decisions for each candidate based on all recorded data and interviews with immigration officers.
In addition, it handles the initial steps in the processes for the adoption of foreign children by U.S. citizens.
How does USCIS work?
USCIS, through its **website** and contact channels, **provides all the information** necessary to understand the different ways to legally immigrate to the United States.
On its website, you will also find all the **forms required to apply** for visas or a change of status for permanent residency.
It operates through a USCIS online account, where they receive forms and payments from applicants, and provide detailed information on all the steps to follow to successfully complete every stage of the process.
Once all information has been processed, the user can schedule an appointment with immigration officers to register their biometric data and then conduct a brief interview, which will complete all stages of the visa application or change of status process.
Through this portal, USCIS also offers users the ability to access their immigration file information, USCIS policies, and verify eligibility for employment in the United States.
What is the typical USCIS processing time?
The USCIS processing times depend on the type of application submitted. There are categories or reasons for application that take priority over others, such as family or spousal reasons. And, depending on the degree of relationship, processing times also vary.
However, this agency has shown through a recent publication on its website that it has worked to reduce processing times for almost all high-volume forms compared to the previous fiscal year (2023).
Some of these times are:
- 2.7 months delay for Form I-129 for nonimmigrant workers,
- 3.6 months for EAD (Employment Authorization Document) for adjustment of status applicants,
- 4.4 months for Advance Parole documents,
- 5.2 months for naturalization.
For other very common procedures, such as a U.S. citizen's application for a foreign relative or spouse, the processing time is usually 15 months, while for a foreign fiancé(e) application it can be 10 months.
Before submitting any application, remember to consult with an attorney specializing in immigration procedures and rights regarding the different options available to you.
What is the USCIS account number?
The USCIS account number is a number assigned to every person who wishes to carry out a procedure through their online portal. This number allows USCIS to send the user notifications and instructions regarding their process efficiently via their website.
This number is obtained by creating an online user account on the Service's website or by submitting a document through a lockbox or secure location. The steps to follow are:
- Create your account on the page, Complete a questionnaire with all your information as accurately as possible, Submit the application.
Once completed, you will be able to access your profile and locate your account number in the action notification letter section.
How can I check my case with USCIS?
To check your case with USCIS and verify your status, you can enter the Case Status Online system at www.uscis.gov/es, register your receipt number, and check how your process is progressing.
The receipt number consists of 13 alphanumeric characters and can be found within the application that was submitted or in the notifications that USCIS will send to your account.
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