How long until my immigration application is approved? It’s the question every applicant wants to know the answer to. We get it! You are undergoing a process that has the potential to change your life for the better. It’s exciting, thrilling, and nerve-wracking all at the same time. For some, the uncertainty of waiting is more stressful than the application process itself. With this article and the resources included, we hope to relieve some of your nerves! Here’s what you need to know.
To put it bluntly, wait times may be the great unknown in your immigration case. USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) is notorious for lengthy processing times depending on the type of immigration benefit sought. Processing times may also differ across the various USCIS processing centers. The immigration agency publishes average processing times for each of its processing centers, but these wait times are only estimates. Additionally, different factors in each case may impact how long USCIS takes to review your case.
To review USCIS processing times for your immigration application, visit the USCIS Processing Times page. To accurately check your application wait time, you must select your application type and assigned service center. Your service center is listed on your USCIS receipt notice, Form 797-C. Note that USCIS will not respond to case inquiries unless your case falls outside the listed USCIS processing times. Your processing time is determined based on your filing date (USCIS receipt date), which is also indicated on your USCIS receipt notice.
Below, we are listing average processing times for the most common immigration petitions or applications. Please use caution, as wait times are continuously updated and may vary across USCIS field centers.
- Family-based Green Card: From 12 to 18 months
- Employment-based Green Card: From 10 to 26 months
- VAWA Petition: From 22 to 30 months
- Fiancé(e) Visa: From 9 to 18 months
- Work permit (initial or renewal) – From 4 months up to 14 months
- Citizenship – From 7 months to 12 months
Under any circumstances, we always remind clients and their loved ones that patience is key during the immigration process. Believe us, we are just as anxious and excited to hear about your case status update as you are. If you can’t find the information you are looking for online, don’t hesitate to call us so we can help you review USCIS wait times for your case accurately.
Because of the complexities of immigration law and unique circumstances of your case, a free immigration consultation with the Milovic Law Firm will start you on the right path. Whether you are in Phoenix Arizona, across the U.S. or outside of the country, we can help make your American dream a reality.
