Q : If I filed before the new fee change and my application is rejected, do I need to pay the new higher fee?

Yes, unless USCIS rejected your application in error. If you think your application was rejected in error, please resubmit your original application, your original check or money order, the cover letter that was included with your returned application, and an explanation of the reason why you believe the rejection was in error. The resubmission should be sent to the address indicated on the rejection notice and marked "Attention: CRU."

Last updated: 01/16/2008

Q : How is USCIS addressing these delays?

USCIS has realigned resources to eliminate the receipt delay as quickly as possible so it can focus on processing applications. This effort includes increasing the number of contract employees and employing significant overtime and shift work. USCIS also has temporarily detailed staff to centers that have been affected the most by the large influx of cases.

USCIS also is extending the use of the Chicago Lockbox to receipt I-130 applications. USCIS is also hiring an additional 1,500 employees to address the processing of these cases.

Q : When can I expect USCIS to process my case?

USCIS processes applications in the order they are received by application type. Due to the significant increase in the number of applications filed, processing times have been affected. As a result, average processing times for certain application types filed after June 1, 2007, may become longer. For example:

• Naturalization applications may take approximately 16-18 months to process;
• Family-based adjustment of status applications may take 10-12 months; and
• Immigrant petitions for relatives and workers may take 9-10 months.

Application processing times are accessible from the USCIS.gov homepage. Processing times are an estimate of how long it will take to complete your case. Each case is different, and some cases may take longer to process than others. You can use your receipt (I-797) to check the status of your case using Case Status Online. Please note that USCIS will only process requests for case status information if it is beyond posted processing times. We encourage you to check processing times, which are updated monthly, before inquiring about your case.

Last updated: 01/16/2008

Q : What caused USCIS' application receipt and processing delays?

USCIS received a significant increase in filings from customers who sought to take advantage of the lower fees that were in effect prior to the agency's planned July 30, 2007, fee increase and because of an influx of applications associated with visa availability in the July 2007 Visa Bulletin. This resulted in a magnitude of applications and fees that exceeded USCIS' ability to timely issue receipts, deposit application fees and process applications within the agency's planned timeframes.

Last updated: 01/16/2008

Contact

You can get in touch with me at:

lheeanne@gmail.com