If you recently applied for a U.S. visa, green card, or other immigration benefits, chances are your application went to a USCIS lockbox. : A lockbox is a facility that US. ), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), to pay applications and sign documents. USCIS has four lockboxes in the United States which are; Chicago, Elgin (Illinois), Phoenix, and Lewisville (Texas).
In this guide, we’ll tell you when and how to get in touch with a USCIS lockbox if you have any issues while applying. The USCIS Ombudsman’s Office, a separate office that works to adjudicate cases before USCIS, has provided some helpful hints to help applicants out in such cases.
When Do You Need to Call a USCIS Lockbox?
You might have to find a USCIS lockbox if you have:
- If your application was rejected.
- Contact the lockbox if you were rejected by USCIS and you don’t know why. It may be because files missing, forms are not filled out, or you forgot to pay.
- You sent your application 30 business days or more ago (whether by the U.S. Postal Service, FedEx, or another carrier) and USCIS didn’t accept your credit card or cash your filing fee check or money order, you’ll need to contact the lockbox. This can be a delay or processing bug.
- If you didn’t get your receipt notice.
- You can also contact them If you still haven’t received your payment.
- When USCIS gets your application, you’ll get a receipt message to let them know that they received it. If you haven’t received your receipt notice 30 days after payment and you haven’t received it, you will have to call Lockbox and request a status update.
How Not to Contact a USCIS Lockbox.
You don’t have to talk to the lockbox if you already have a receipt number for your application. Instead, you should:
- Go to USCIS Tools and Resources to request your case online.
- Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 if you need help with your application.
Steps On How to Call a USCIS Lockbox
If you need to email a USCIS lockbox, email is the way to go. What you should send to them and how to contact them: Here’s how to email them:
Mail Address: You can email lockboxsupport@uscis.dhs.gov to the USCIS lockbox.
Send an email with the following info:
- Form number (Form I-485, for instance).
- Receipt Number (If you have one).
- Name of sponsor or applicant – The name of the individual who is seeking a green card or other visa.
- Address of sponsor/applicant – Enter the correct address.
- Proof of delivery – If you’re inquiring about something you sent, show proof of delivery.
- Payment Details – List how you paid and proof that USCIS got your payment.
NOTE: Never send your alien registration number or Social Security Number (SSN) with your email – for security purposes.
Also, when you call a USCIS lockbox, It can get you out of trouble with your visa or green card application if your payment or receipt notice is not processed on time or has a glitch. Be sure to adhere to the rules below so your inquiry is specific and detailed for USCIS to process your request efficiently.
To get additional information about immigration, or to know when to make mistakes, Law and Visas is there with resources and advice at every stage.
Know when and how to call a USCIS lockbox, so you’re aware of your application status and don’t have to waste time waiting for your visa or green card.
How to Avoid Common Mistakes When Filing with USCIS Lockbox
Filing with the USCIS Lockbox can be a daunting process for many applicants. However, avoiding common mistakes can significantly streamline your immigration application and enhance your chances of approval. Below are key strategies to ensure your submission is accurate and complete.
Completing Forms Correctly
Before mailing your application, it is essential to ensure that all forms are filled out correctly. Common errors include:
- Incorrect Addresses: Always verify that you are sending your application to the correct Lockbox facility. Each form has specific mailing addresses based on the type of application. Refer to the USCIS website for the most current address information.
- Missing Signatures: Many forms require a handwritten signature in designated areas. Forms submitted without signatures or with signatures in incorrect places will be rejected4. Double-check that all necessary signatures are included before sending.
- Incomplete Documentation: Ensure that you have included all required supporting documents. Missing documents can lead to delays or rejections. Use a checklist based on the instructions for your specific form to confirm completeness.
Payment Methods and Filing Fees
Handling payment methods and filing fees correctly is crucial:
- Correct Fees: One of the most common reasons for rejection is submitting incorrect fees. Use the USCIS Fee Calculator to determine the correct amount required for your application.
- Payment Methods: Acceptable payment methods include checks, money orders, or credit card authorizations (Form G-1450). Ensure that payments are made out correctly and include any necessary forms as outlined in the filing instructions.
Double-Checking Your Application
Before sending your application, it’s vital to double-check everything:
- Review All Forms: Go through each form to ensure there are no missing pages or sections. This includes verifying that you have used the most current version of each form, as outdated forms may be rejected.
- Keep Copies: Make copies of your entire application package, including all forms and supporting documents. This will help if you need to reference what was submitted or if issues arise later on.
Understanding Lockbox Processing Issues
The USCIS Lockbox plays a critical role in processing applications:
- Impact on Processing Times: The Lockbox is responsible for initial document intake and fee processing. Errors in submission can lead to significant delays, as applications may be returned for corrections or additional information.
- Lost Applications: If your application is lost or not processed correctly by the Lockbox, contact Lockbox Support at lockboxsupport@uscis.dhs.gov. Provide identifying information such as your form number and receipt number to facilitate their investigation.
Tracking Your Submission
Once your application is with the Lockbox, tracking its status is essential:
- Average Processing Times: Familiarize yourself with average processing times for different applications submitted to the Lockbox. This information can help set realistic expectations regarding when you might receive updates.
- Using Online Tools: Utilize USCIS online tools like the Case Status tool and USCIS online accounts to check your application status without needing to call customer service. This can save time and provide immediate updates.
Alternatives to USCIS Lockbox Call
If you need updates on your application, consider these alternatives:
- USCIS e-Request: For specific inquiries about issues with your application (such as delays), use the USCIS e-Request tool. This allows you to submit inquiries electronically, which can be more efficient than waiting on hold for a representative.
What Happens After Submission?
Understanding what occurs after your application reaches the Lockbox can help manage expectations:
- Document Processing: Once received, documents are evaluated against acceptance criteria. Accepted applications are forwarded to appropriate USCIS service centers for further processing.
- Transitioning Cases: After processing at the Lockbox, cases transition to service centers or local offices for adjudication. This flow impacts overall timelines; understanding this process can help applicants gauge when they might expect further communication from USCIS.
Differences Between Lockbox Processing and Local USCIS Offices
Lockbox facilities focus solely on the intake and preliminary processing of applications. They do not make decisions on cases; instead, they verify that submissions meet acceptance criteria, such as correct fees and complete documentation. In contrast, local USCIS offices handle the adjudication of cases, conducting interviews and making final decisions based on eligibility.
Lockbox vs. Service Centers
Understanding the distinction between Lockboxes and service centers is essential. Lockboxes primarily manage the intake phase—scanning documents, processing payments, and issuing receipt notices within typically 48 hours of receipt. Once a case is accepted, it is sent to a service center for further processing, where adjudicators review the application, conduct interviews if necessary, and ultimately decide on the case.
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 a K-1 Visa or an L-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.
