If you’re waiting for your green card, you may be wondering how to check its status. Whether you’re applying from inside or outside the U.S., there are several ways to track your application. This guide will help you understand the process and provide tips for staying updated.
Ways to Check Your Green Card Status:
- Online
- By Mail
- By Email
- In Person
- By Phone
The method you choose depends on whether you apply from inside or outside the United States. If you applied using Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) from within the U.S., or Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application) from abroad, you can track your status at different stages.
How to Check Green Card Status Online
Checking your green card status online is the quickest way and is recommended by USCIS. Here’s how:
For Applicants Inside the U.S.:
- Find your “Receipt Number” (usually located in your Form I-797C Notice of Action).
- Visit the USCIS Case Status Online tool.
- Enter your Receipt Number and click “Check Status.”
For Applicants Outside the U.S.:
- Find your “Immigrant Visa Case Number.”
- Go to the NVC CEAC Website (Consular Electronic Application Center).
- Select “IMMIGRANT VISA (IV)” and enter your Case Number.
- Enter the verification code to prove you’re not a bot and click “Submit.”
Where to Find Your Tracking Numbers
Receipt Numbers:
When you submit your application to USCIS, you’ll get a unique Receipt Number, usually in the format of 3 letters and 10 numbers, such as ABC1234567891. You’ll find this number in the USCIS Form I-797C notification.
Case Numbers:
If you’re applying from outside the U.S., the National Visa Center (NVC) gives you a Case Number after USCIS approves your Form I-130 or I-140 petition. It also follows the 3-letter and 10-number format, e.g., XYZ1234567891. This number appears in the NVC notification.
How to Check Green Card Status by Mail
You can receive updates by mail if you sign up for a Case Status Online account and register for USPS Informed Delivery. This service tracks your mail and provides updates on packages, including your green card.
- Update Your Address:
If you’ve moved since applying, update your address to ensure you receive all notices on time.- For U.S. applicants: Update online through USCIS.
- For international applicants: Notify the NVC by email or phone.
What to Do if USPS Says My Green Card Was Delivered but I Didn’t Get It?
If USPS tracking shows your green card was delivered but you didn’t receive it, contact your local post office immediately.
How to Check Green Card Status by Email
- For Applicants Inside the U.S.:
USCIS doesn’t offer email inquiries for status updates. You must use the online system or phone service. - For Applicants Outside the U.S.:
If you’re applying from abroad, you can contact the NVC by submitting an inquiry using their online form. They’ll respond by email.
Check Green Card Status in Person
- For Applicants Inside the U.S.:
You can no longer schedule in-person visits via InfoPass. To check your case in person, you must call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283, and if needed, schedule an appointment based on your situation. - For Applicants Outside the U.S.:
In-person inquiries are not available, but you may be able to get more information from the U.S. embassy or consulate depending on your location.
How to Check Green Card Status by Phone
- For Applicants Inside the U.S.:
Call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 (TTY for the hearing impaired: 1-800-767-1833). Be ready to provide your Receipt Number and other details. - For Applicants Outside the U.S.:
Call the NVC at +1-603-334-0700. Expect long wait times.
How to Get Electronic Updates
Stay updated on your green card status with electronic notifications:
For Applicants Inside the U.S.:
- Submit Form G-1145 to get a one-time email/text when USCIS receives your form.
- Create a USCIS Online Account to get continuous updates.
For Applicants Outside the U.S.:
- Complete Form DS-261 to designate an agent for updates.
- Check your application status anytime via the NVC CEAC system.
How to Check on a Delayed Green Card Application
If your green card application is delayed beyond the normal processing time, here’s what to do:
For Applicants Inside the U.S.:
Visit the USCIS website, select “Case outside normal processing time,” and submit the form with your details.
For Applicants Outside the U.S.:
Make sure you’ve submitted all required documents to the NVC. If you haven’t received updates, contact NVC by phone or through their online form.
The green card process can be complex, and it’s important to keep track of your status at every stage. If you need help with your green card application, consider reaching out to an immigration professional to guide you through the process.
How to Track Your Green Card Status
Tracking your Green Card status is crucial for staying informed about the progress of your application. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides several tools and methods to help applicants monitor their cases effectively.
Using the USCIS Website
USCIS Case Status Online Tool
The USCIS Case Status Online tool allows you to check your application status using your unique receipt number. This number is a 13-character identifier found on Form I-797, Notice of Action, which you receive after submitting your application. It typically consists of three letters followed by ten numbers (e.g., EAC1234567890) .
Step-by-Step Guide to Track Your Green Card Status
- Visit the USCIS Case Status Online page.
- Enter your receipt number, omitting any dashes.
- Click “Check Status” to view the latest updates on your case.
Importance of the Receipt Notice
The receipt notice is essential as it confirms that USCIS has received your application. It contains vital information, including:
- Receipt Number: Used to track your case.
- Processing Time: Indicates how long it may take to process your application.
- Next Steps: Information on what to expect next in the process.
Using the USCIS Account
Creating a USCIS online account enhances your tracking experience. This account allows you to:
- Receive notifications for status updates.
- View case details, including progress and any requests for evidence.
Checking Processing Times
To understand how long your specific Green Card type might take, use the USCIS Processing Times tool. This tool provides average processing times based on service centers, helping you gauge when you might expect updates.
Sign Up for Case Status Alerts
You can set up email or text alerts through your USCIS account. These notifications inform you about significant changes in your case, such as interview scheduling or decisions made.
Checking Biometrics Appointment
To check if your biometrics appointment is scheduled:
- Log into your USCIS account or use the Case Status Online tool.
If you haven’t received notice of your appointment, consider contacting USCIS directly for assistance.
Other Methods to Track Your Green Card Status
- National Visa Center (NVC): If applying from outside the U.S., track your status through the NVC using their Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).
- USCIS Customer Service: Call the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 with your receipt number ready for assistance.
- Immigrant Visa Tracking System (IVTS): For those applying through consular processing, use IVTS to monitor your immigrant visa case.
- Contacting Service Centers: Reach out directly to specific USCIS service centers if you suspect delays or issues with your application.
What to Do If Your Green Card Application is Delayed
Common reasons for delays include missing documents or background checks. If you believe your application is delayed:
- Follow up with USCIS using their inquiry tools.
- Check if it’s outside normal processing times and contact them for further assistance.
Understanding Your Green Card Application Status Updates
When tracking your Green Card application, you will encounter various status messages on the USCIS website. Each message indicates a specific phase in the processing of your application.
Common Status Messages
- Case Received: This status means that USCIS has received your application. Typically, you can expect this phase to last a few weeks while your application is logged into their system.
- Case Approved: If you see this message, congratulations! Your application has been approved, and you will receive further instructions regarding your Green Card. This phase usually follows the receipt of your application by several months, depending on the processing times.
- Interview Scheduled: This status indicates that USCIS has scheduled an interview for you. The wait time for an interview can vary widely but often ranges from a few months to over a year after your application is submitted.
- Request for Evidence (RFE) Sent: An RFE is issued when USCIS needs additional information to process your application. Responding promptly is crucial; typically, you have 30 to 90 days to provide the requested evidence.
- Decision Was Made: This message means that USCIS has made a decision on your case, but it may take additional time to receive the official notification.
Handling Requests for Evidence (RFE)
An RFE is issued when USCIS requires more documentation to support your application. Common requests include proof of relationship for marriage-based Green Cards or additional financial documentation. To respond effectively:
- Review the RFE carefully and gather the requested documents.
- Submit your response within the specified timeframe.
- After submitting, you can track the status of your green card using your receipt number.
After the Interview
Once you’ve completed your interview, you will typically receive a decision shortly thereafter, although it may take several weeks for official notification. You can continue to check your status online using your receipt number.
Knowing When Your Green Card Has Been Approved
When your Green Card is approved, USCIS will notify you by mail. The delivery process usually involves mailing the physical card to the address on file, which can be tracked through USPS if you signed up for Informed Delivery. If there are issues with receiving your Green Card, such as delays or non-delivery, contact USCIS immediately for assistance.
What to Do If Your Green Card Application is Denied
Common reasons for denial include incomplete applications or failure to meet eligibility requirements. If denied:
- Review the denial notice carefully to understand the reasons.
- You may appeal the decision or reapply if eligible.
- Check if there are options to reopen the case based on new evidence or circumstances.
Timeframes and Expectations
Processing times vary significantly based on the type of Green Card (family-based, employment-based, etc.). Generally:
- Family-based applications might take 12 months or longer.
- Employment-based applications can vary widely based on visa availability and service center backlogs.
Managing expectations is essential; factors like service center workloads and individual case complexities can impact processing times.
Alternative Ways to Check Status for Dependents
To track dependent applications (e.g., spouse or children), use their individual receipt numbers on the USCIS website. If their applications face delays, follow similar steps as outlined above for inquiries and updates.
When to Contact USCIS
Contact USCIS if:
- You notice incorrect status updates.
- Your application is delayed beyond normal processing times.
- You are missing important documents related to your case.
By following these steps, you’ll have a clear view of your green card status and be ready for the next steps in your 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 United States straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a B-2 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.
