Are You Accurately Checking USCIS Case Status and Processing Times in 2025?
Tip From Our Immigration Attorneys
If your case is taking longer than the posted USCIS processing time, and within the past 60 days you have not received a notice from USCIS, responded to a Request for Evidence (RFE), or seen any update to your case online, you may file an inquiry using USCIS’ official e-request tool. You may also consult directly with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link for guidance on the next steps.
The Waiting Game After Filing With USCIS
You’ve submitted your immigration forms, paid the required filing fees, and received your USCIS receipt notice. Now comes the hardest part—waiting. Delays caused by backlogs, staffing shortages, or changes in regulations often make this period stressful. However, tracking your USCIS case status accurately and knowing the typical processing times can help reduce uncertainty and keep you informed about where your case stands.
Monitoring your application is an important step in your immigration journey. Below, our team at Green Card Link explains the most reliable ways to check your USCIS case status and stay updated on processing times in 2025.
How to Check USCIS Case Status
There are several ways to verify your USCIS case status:
- Online using the USCIS case status tool
- By phone, inside or outside the U.S.
- By signing up for automatic case updates
Need assistance? Contact the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link for personalized case support.
Checking Your USCIS Case Status Online
The simplest and most efficient method to check your USCIS case status is online. You only need your USCIS receipt number from Form I-797, Notice of Action.
Steps to check online:
- Go to the USCIS Case Status Online Tool.
- Enter your 13-digit receipt number exactly as it appears (no hyphens).
- Click “Check Status.”
If entered correctly, the tool will display your current case status along with any recent updates. Each update is tied directly to your immigration program, so it’s essential to check regularly.
Tip: Keep your I-797 handy—it not only lists your receipt number but also identifies your service center, which determines processing times.
Checking Your USCIS Case Status by Phone
If online access isn’t available, you can also check by phone using your receipt number.
- Inside the U.S.: Call 1-800-375-5283 (TTY: 1-800-767-1833).
- Outside the U.S.: Call 212-620-3418 or reach out to a USCIS international field office.
The automated system allows you to state your receipt number or enter it via keypad. It will confirm your entry and provide your case status. Keep in mind that connecting with a live agent is very difficult, so for detailed concerns, it’s best to contact immigration attorneys at Green Card Link.
Automatic USCIS Case Status Updates
You can sign up for free automatic email or text updates directly from USCIS. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge fees for this service, as USCIS provides it at no cost.
Automatic updates ensure you never miss an RFE, notice, or approval, helping you stay on track with your immigration process.
How to Check USCIS Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on the form type, service center, and case complexity. The best way to check official timelines is through the USCIS Processing Times page.
Steps to check processing times:
- Select your form (e.g., I-130, I-485, N-400).
- Choose the appropriate category.
- Identify your service center (found in the first three letters of your receipt number).
For example, in 2025:
- The I-130 petition for a U.S. citizen sponsoring a spouse or child under 21 takes about 17 months.
- The I-485 adjustment of status for family-based applicants averages 8–9 months.
- The N-400 naturalization application takes roughly 5–6 months.
Processing times are updated monthly and should always be treated as estimates, not guarantees.
Understanding Your USCIS Receipt Number
Your receipt number provides important details:
- First three letters = Service center (e.g., EAC for Vermont, SRC for Texas, WAC for California).
- Next two digits = Fiscal year your case was received.
- Following three digits = Workday of the year your case was opened.
- Last five digits = Unique case number.
Knowing how to read your receipt number makes it easier to identify which service center is handling your case and track processing times accordingly.
Submitting an Inquiry to USCIS
If your case is delayed beyond posted timelines, you may use the USCIS e-request tool for issues such as:
- Case outside normal processing time
- Missing notices, cards, or documents by mail
When filing an inquiry, you’ll need your receipt number, filing date, and petition type.
How to Read the Visa Bulletin
The Visa Bulletin, published monthly by the U.S. Department of State, provides updates on immigrant visa availability. To use it:
- Visit the Visa Bulletin page.
- Identify your visa category (family-based or employment-based).
- Compare your priority date on Form I-797 with the “Final Action Dates.”
- If your date is current, you may proceed with the next stage of your green card process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which USCIS office is handling my case?
Check the first three letters of your receipt number.
Which service center is the slowest?
Timelines vary, but Nebraska is often among the fastest.
What is the I-130 processing time for parents in 2025?
Currently, about 14–17 months depending on service center.
Can an attorney help speed up my case?
While no attorney can force USCIS to process faster, an experienced immigration
attorney at Green Card Link can ensure your application is properly prepared, filed, and tracked, reducing unnecessary delays.
How Green Card Link Can Help
At Green Card Link, our immigration attorneys guide clients through every step of the immigration process. From filing your application to monitoring USCIS updates, we ensure you have the right information and strategy in place. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing clear communication and hands-on support, giving you confidence throughout your journey.
📞 Schedule a consultation today with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link to discuss your case and receive tailored guidance.