Guides on USCIS, NVC, Visa Bulletin, CSPA and family categories for the global community.
USCIS transferring a file to another office or processing center does not mean there is a problem with the file. This is a situation that often makes applicants worried, but it needs to be understood properly before drawing conclusions.
The status “Case Is Being Actively Reviewed By USCIS” often makes the applicant expect that the application will soon have results. So what is USCIS actually doing and does this status mean the application is about to be Approved?
“Case Was Received” is one of the first statuses applicants typically see on USCIS. But has the application actually been approved and what steps will happen next?
USCIS updates the status “Case Was Updated To Show Fingerprints Were Taken”. This is a sign that the profile has completed the biometric step, but it does not mean that the profile has been approved.
“Case Was Rejected” and “Case Was Denied” are two completely different states. Rejected records are often not accepted by USCIS into the review process and the cause needs to be determined for proper handling.
USCIS updating “Case Was Approved” is an important milestone, but not every Approved application means the applicant has received the card or documents immediately.
USCIS sends a "Request for Initial Evidence Was Sent" notice, which many people confuse with an RFE. These two states have important differences and how to handle them also needs to be properly understood.
USCIS updates the status "Request for Evidence Was Sent". This is when applicants need to pay special attention because USCIS is asking for additional evidence before being able to continue deciding on the application.
USCIS updates "Case Was Denied" status, making applicants worried. Is the end of the case for a rejected application or is it still possible to request reconsideration, appeal or take other legal steps?
USCIS updates the status “Interview Was Scheduled”. This is an important milestone in the application review process. What should you do immediately after receiving this notice?
Many people see the status “Fingerprint Fee Was Received” on USCIS and think they have a fingerprint scheduled. In fact, this is just the step to confirm that USCIS has received the biometric fee.
The "Case Remains Pending" status makes many people worried because the application lasts for many months. Is this a sign that the application is stuck or is USCIS still processing?
USCIS updates the status "Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction". Is the file being transferred to another office a sign of abnormality or just a normal processing process?
Many people see USCIS update the status “Card Was Produced” and think that the Green Card has been sent to their home. In fact, this is just the step to complete card printing.
USCIS updates the status “Expedite Request Received” after an applicant requests expedited processing. Does this mean the application will be processed faster or just confirmation of receipt of the request?
USCIS announced that the mail was returned by the post office because it could not be delivered. Does this affect the application and what should be done to avoid delays?
After the application had a decision, USCIS suddenly updated the status "Case Was Reopened". Does this mean there is a problem with the file or is it just a normal processing step?
When USCIS displays the status "Case Closed", many people do not know whether the application is complete or there are still steps to be taken. Correctly understanding the meaning of this state will help avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
After the application is approved by USCIS, many people see the status "Case Was Sent To The Department of State". Is this a sign that the file has been transferred to NVC and what is the next step?
The USCIS application has been changed to "Case Was Approved" but for many days, the Approval Notice has not been received. Is this something to worry about or is it just due to the time it takes to process paper mail?
