It's easier than ever to stay up to date on the status of your immigration process to the United States. The USCIS case status check is one of the most convenient and reliable methods. We don’t recommend using other tools, of which there are many available online, but none provides the same reliability as the USCIS.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of checking your immigration case status online, as well as other options for staying informed, such as calling the USCIS case status line. Keep in mind that other tools online provide general, public information, some even using USCIS APIs to display updated information. However, none of these can be used to find out information about your specific case, and may only be useful to calculate estimates about the overall process. We encourage you to do your research, but also to be wary of any information published on other, non-official websites or forums. Without further ado, let’s get right into it!
USCIS Case Status Check
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides an easy-to-use online portal for checking the status of your case. To use this service, go to the USCIS website and select the "Case Status Online" option. In this section, enter your USCIS receipt number and click "Check Status" to receive real-time updates on the status of your specific application.

How to Find Your Case Number
To check your online case status with USCIS, you must enter your 13-character case number. This number, also known as the immigration receipt number. You can find it on all USCIS notices. It usually starts with three letters (for example, EAC, WAC, LIN, SRC, or IOE) and is followed by ten digits. If you can't find this number, look through any correspondence you've received from USCIS or directly contact their customer service to get more assistance.
Check USCIS Case Status by Phone
If you'd rather check the status of your case over the phone, contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. To verify your identity, be prepared to provide your USCIS case number and other relevant information. While this method is less convenient than the online tool, it is an option for those who do not have access to the internet or prefer a more personal touch. There’s also a second contact number for people with communication difficulties or disabilities: 1-800-767-1833.
Importance of Staying Informed
Checking the status of your immigration case regularly is critical for several reasons.
- It keeps you informed of any updates, deadlines, or additional documentation requirements.
- It gives you peace of mind by allowing you to track the progress of your application and make any necessary changes.
- It can help you prepare for any interviews or appointments regarding your case.
- And finally, for many, it can be reassuring to keep updated due to misleading information publicly available everywhere else. After all, the source of the most reliable information is the USCIS directly.
We know that staying updated with your immigration process is vital. For many, it’s a life-altering process, so getting information about your specific case can be reassuring during such a stressful time.
FAQs about checking immigration case status online
1. How long does it take for USCIS to update my case status online?
The USCIS usually updates case status information on a regular basis, but there may be some delays due to a variety of factors. It is recommended that you check your case status on a regular basis for the most up-to-date information.
2. Can I check the status of my case if I lost my USCIS case number?
If you've misplaced your USCIS case number, you can get help from the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. After verifying your identity, they may be able to provide you with your case number.
3. How often should I check my immigration case status?
While there is no set frequency for checking your case status, it is a good idea to do so regularly, especially if you anticipate updates, deadlines, or additional documentation requirements. This can help you stay informed and make necessary changes on time.
4. Why is my case status not changing or showing the same status for a long time?
Some cases may take longer to process due to a variety of factors such as the case's complexity, the volume of applications handled by USCIS, or any additional security checks required. If the status of your case has not changed for an extended period of time, you can contact USCIS for more information.
5. Can I check the status of a family member's or friend's case online?
Yes, you can check the status of someone else's case if you have their USCIS case number. You must, however, obtain their permission before accessing their case status, as unauthorized access to someone's personal information is a violation of their privacy rights.
6. Will I receive any notifications when there is an update on my case?
For any significant changes or actions required in your case, USCIS usually sends updates via mail. However, it is still recommended that you check your case status online or by phone on a regular basis to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information.
7. Is the online case status information secure and private?
Yes, the online USCIS case status check is safe and confidential. To protect your personal information, the system employs encryption, and you must enter your unique USCIS case number to access your case status, ensuring that only authorized individuals can view your case details.
8. How do I interpret different case status messages?
Understanding USCIS case status messages is crucial. Common messages include:
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Case Received: Your application has been received and is being processed.
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Case Approved: Your application has been approved, and you will receive further instructions.
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Request for Evidence (RFE): USCIS needs more information or documents to proceed with your case. Follow the instructions provided carefully and respond promptly.
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Case Rejected: There was an issue with your application (e.g., missing information or incorrect fees). You will need to correct the issue and resubmit.
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Interview Scheduled: An interview has been scheduled; details will be provided in the notice.
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Decision Mailed: A final decision has been made, and you will receive it by mail.
9. What should I do if I receive a "Request for Evidence (RFE)"?
An RFE means that USCIS needs additional information or documentation to process your application. Carefully review the RFE notice, gather the requested information, and submit it by the specified deadline. Prompt and accurate responses can help avoid delays in your case processing.
Stay Informed and In Control of Your Immigration Journey
Keeping track of your immigration case status has never been easier thanks to the official USCIS online portal and phone services. Regularly checking your case updates ensures you stay informed of important deadlines, requests, and decisions, helping you respond promptly and avoid unnecessary delays.
Remember, the most reliable information always comes directly from USCIS. Use their official tools to monitor your specific case securely and confidently throughout the process. Staying proactive and well-informed is a key part of successfully navigating your immigration journey.