Approved but no Case Number, how long does NVC have to wait?

Many people receive a "Case Approved" notice from USCIS but then wait many weeks and still have not received a Case Number from NVC. This is a fairly common situation for settlement sponsorship applications.

What is Case Number NVC?

Case Number is the file code issued by NVC after USCIS transfers the file to the US Department of State. This code is used to:

• Log in to CEAC
• Submit DS-260
• Follow up records at NVC
• Receive interview schedule

How long do you usually have to wait?

After USCIS approval, the application usually goes through the following steps:

• USCIS closes the file
• Transfer documents to NVC
• NVC receives
• Create Case Number
• Send email notification

Time may vary depending on time and volume of documents.

Why do slow applications have a Case Number?

Some common causes:

• USCIS has not yet transferred the documents
• Documents are in the process of internal transportation
• NVC is processing a large amount of documents
• Contact information needs to be updated

How to check progress

You should prepare:

• Receipt Number of USCIS
• Approval Notice (I-797)
• Full name and date of birth of the guaranteed person

When contacting NVC, ask:

• Has the application been received yet?
• Have you created a Case Number yet?
• Is there any additional information needed?

What to do while waiting?

• Prepare civil documents
• Check passport validity
• Collect birth and marriage certificates
• Follow Visa Bulletin if you are in the priority category

When should I contact NVC?

If you have waited a significant period of time after USCIS approval and still have not received an email from NVC, you should proactively contact to check the status of your application.

Conclusion

Approved records but no NVC Case Number does not mean there is a problem. In most cases, documents are still in the process of being transferred between USCIS and NVC. Preparing documents while waiting will help you process faster when receiving the Case Number.