The best part if you’ve ever made an immigration application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), perhaps you have heard about my progress. This is an application tool that was developed to make the entire process of applying with USCIS easier, clearer, and less stressful by giving you the most current status of your application. myProgress (previously “personalized processing times”) helps you track your case’s status so you know exactly what to expect.
What is myProgress
It is a feature in the online account portal at USCIS (myUSCIS) to track your immigration application or petition. It gives you customized notifications based on the form type you’ve submitted and USCIS’s previous statistics. You’ll see estimated processing times from the time your case gets approved through the moment USCIS receives it, until the moment they ultimately decide.
Disclaimer: The estimated Processing Time provided by myProgress is an estimate only and is not a guarantee. Processing times will depend on a lot of things and also may change based on your case type and USCIS workload. It does give you a better idea of where your case is at, and how long you’ll be waiting.
What Are the Various Types MyProgress Fits In?
myProgress is available for certain forms you submit using your online account with USCIS. If you’ve submitted one of the following forms, you can use my progress to see where your application is:
- Application for Adjustment of Status Form I-485: Dependent status Family-based (Family).
- I-485 (Application for Adjustment of Status): SIV for Afghan nationals Special Immigrant Visa (SIV).
- Application Form I-130 (Form I-130) Alien Relative Petition (Excluding Spouse)
- Formulary I-821 (Request for Temporary Protected Status)
- Form I-765 (Request for Employment Authorization)
- I-131 (Application for Travel Document)
- Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
- Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card Form I-90(Replace Permanent Resident Card)
You can see how your application is going through your online account if you have one of these forms.
How to Access myProgress
MyProgress is only available if you sign up for a USCIS online account or sign in to one that you already have. You can connect your application once you’re logged in by entering your receipt number from when you filed. If you submitted an application via online application submission or connected a paper-submitted application to your account, you can access myProgress by clicking on your application.
Open the progress tab and some handy tools appear such as:
- Time Left to Decision: This tells you the remaining time to a decision on your case.
- Milestone Checkmarks: You’ll see checkmarks for each important application step like:
- Verification that USCIS received your application.
- Information about preprocessing and adjudication activities on your case.
- The call of the day for your application after it’s taken.
These are all features that will keep you updated on how your case is going and make it clear what to expect next.
Why Use myProgress?
The biggest advantage of progress is that it’s more transparent throughout the immigration journey. You don’t need to call USCIS or wait for information to arrive in the mail — you can see the status of your case from your USCIS online account. Not only does this save you time but also it makes uncertainty less of a problem when planning.
MyProgress also avoids unnecessarily asking questions about your case. The tool sends you updates every few minutes so you don’t have to phone USCIS or worry about getting behind schedule since you can monitor the status of your application.
What You Should Know About Processing Time
MyProgress tells you how long your application could be processed but you have to be aware that times can vary. Each case is different and USCIS workload, security clearances, and other circumstances all impact when you receive a decision.
If you’re looking for a more abstract estimation of your case timeline, Law and Visas can tell you what to expect from the common processing times and each step of the immigration process. We tailor-make our immigration services to keep you informed and well-equipped as you progress through your case.
How Secure Is USCIS myProgress?
USCIS myProgress is a digital tool designed to enhance the user experience for applicants tracking their immigration cases. Security is a priority for USCIS, especially given the sensitive nature of personal information involved in immigration processes. Understanding the security measures in place, how to protect your account, and tips for safeguarding your information is essential for all users.
Security Measures Implemented by USCIS
- Data Encryption: USCIS employs encryption protocols to protect personal information transmitted through myProgress. This ensures that data exchanged between users and the USCIS servers remains confidential and secure.
- User Authentication: To access myProgress, users must create a USCIS online account, which requires a secure login process. This typically includes a username and password, helping to prevent unauthorized access.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): USCIS encourages users to enable two-factor authentication on their accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification (such as a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.
Protecting Your Online Account
- Strong Passwords: Create a strong, unique password for your USCIS online account. Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or common words.
- Regularly Update Credentials: Change your password regularly and avoid reusing passwords from other accounts to minimize risks associated with potential data breaches.
- Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account for any unauthorized activity or changes that you did not initiate.
Tips for Safeguarding Your Information
- Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing your USCIS account over public Wi-Fi networks, as these can be less secure and more susceptible to hacking.
- Phishing Awareness: Be vigilant against phishing attempts that may try to trick you into revealing your login credentials. Always verify the authenticity of emails or messages claiming to be from USCIS before clicking on links or providing personal information.
- Secure Your Devices: Ensure that the devices you use to access myProgress are secure and have updated antivirus software installed.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with USCIS myProgress
While myProgress is designed to streamline the immigration tracking process, users may encounter common issues that can be resolved with some troubleshooting steps.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Login Problems: If you are having trouble logging into your account, ensure that you are using the correct username and password. If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password” feature to reset it.
- Missing Case Information: If your case information is not appearing in myProgress, ensure that you have linked your application correctly using the receipt number. If problems persist, consider contacting USCIS customer service for assistance.
- Technical Glitches: Occasionally, technical issues may arise within the myProgress system. If you experience these issues, try clearing your browser cache or accessing the site from a different browser or device.
Contacting USCIS Customer Service
If troubleshooting does not resolve your issue:
- Reach out to USCIS customer service at 1-800-375-5283 for assistance.
- Be prepared to provide your receipt number and personal details to verify your identity during the call.
Escalating Problems
If your issue remains unresolved after contacting customer service:
- Request Escalation: Politely ask the representative if they can escalate your issue to a supervisor or another department that may provide further assistance.
- Document Your Interactions: Keep records of any communications with USCIS, including dates, times, and names of representatives you spoke with.
How to Contact USCIS About Your Case If MyProgress Isn’t Providing Answers
If myProgress does not provide sufficient information about your case status or if you have specific questions:
Contact Methods Available
- Phone Support: Call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 for general inquiries about your case status or specific questions related to your application.
- Online Support: Use the online inquiry form available on the USCIS website for less urgent matters or if you prefer written communication.
- In-Person Visits: For complex issues requiring direct interaction, consider scheduling an appointment at your local USCIS office through InfoPass.
Information to Have on Hand
When contacting USCIS about your case:
- Your receipt number
- Personal identification details (name, date of birth)
- Specific questions or issues you want to address
- Any relevant documentation related to your case
Is USCIS myProgress Available for All Applicants or Just Certain Groups?
Understanding who can use myProgress is essential for applicants navigating their immigration processes.
Availability of myProgress
- Eligible Forms: As of now, myProgress is available for several forms, including:
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
- Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status)
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
- Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document)
- Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
- Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card)
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- Current Limitations: Initially, myProgress was rolled out primarily for family-based applicants and Afghan special immigrant cases but has since expanded its functionality.
Future Plans for Expansion
USCIS may continue to expand the availability of myProgress based on user feedback and policy changes in immigration processes. Keeping an eye on announcements from USCIS will help applicants stay informed about any changes in eligibility or functionality.
How MyProgress Helps Applicants Prepare for Interviews or Other Key Milestones
myProgress serves as a valuable tool in helping applicants track important milestones throughout their immigration journey.
Tracking Important Steps
- Milestone Notifications: Users can see when significant steps in their application process are completed—such as confirmation of receipt, biometric appointments, and final decisions—allowing them to stay informed about their progress.
- Interview Preparation: By tracking when interviews are scheduled and what documents are required, applicants can better prepare themselves ahead of time.
Reducing Confusion
Having a clear view of application progress helps reduce confusion regarding what steps need to be taken next and improves communication with USCIS by providing up-to-date information directly accessible through myProgress.
Is USCIS myProgress Free to Use?
One of the significant benefits of using myProgress is that it is completely free for eligible applicants.
No Additional Fees
Applicants can utilize myProgress without incurring additional fees or charges associated with its use. This accessibility makes it easier for individuals to navigate complex immigration processes without financial barriers.
Complementary Tools and Services
While myProgress itself is free, other tools and services provided by USCIS may have associated costs (such as filing fees). Applicants should review all related services carefully when planning their immigration journey.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the U.S. straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for an L-1 Visa or an F-1 Visa we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.