Waiting for an immigration decision can feel overwhelming. Once you file a form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the only way to know what is happening is by checking your USCIS case status. This page explains how to check your case correctly, what each status message means, and what to do next.
How to Check Your USCIS Case Status Online
USCIS assigns a receipt number to almost every application or petition. You use this number to check your USCIS case status online.
Find Your Receipt Number
USCIS prints your receipt number on the Form I-797, Notice of Action, otherwise known as your receipt notice. USCIS mails or posts this notice shortly after it accepts your filing.
A USCIS receipt number:
- Has 13 characters
- Starts with three letters (such as EAC, WAC, LIN, SRC, IOE, or MSC)
- Is followed by ten numbers
USCIS uses this number to track your case through each step of the process. For more on the notice and number, visit on detailed post on the USCIS receipt number →
When USCIS Updates Case Status
USCIS updates case status when your file moves to a new stage. Updates do not happen daily. In many cases, weeks or months pass between changes. Checking often does not make USCIS act faster, but checking periodically helps you respond quickly if USCIS requests something.
Check Your USCIS Case Status Below
Use the online tool below to check your USCIS case status by receipt number. This tool connects directly to USCIS case status data.
CitizenPath’s case status checker uses USCIS data through an application programming interface (API). You may also check your USCIS case status directly on the USCIS website. CitizenPath does not store your receipt number and does not have access to your case file or any additional details beyond the status information displayed to you. Only USCIS has access to your full case details and personally identifiable information.
What Common USCIS Case Status Messages Mean
USCIS uses standardized messages. Below are some of the most common case status updates and what they usually indicate.
Case Was Received
USCIS accepted your application and created a case file. This means your filing passed initial intake checks. USCIS will review your case later. At this stage, there is usually nothing you need to do.
Biometrics Appointment Scheduled
USCIS has scheduled a biometrics appointment for you to provide biometrics, such as fingerprints, a photo, and a signature. USCIS will mail or post a notice with the appointment date, time, and location. You should attend as scheduled.
Case Is Actively Being Reviewed
USCIS has assigned your case to an officer. This does not mean a decision is coming immediately. USCIS may review your case multiple times before approval or denial. In many cases, you may see the message for multiple months.
Request for Evidence Was Sent
USCIS needs more information to make a decision. USCIS mails or uploads a Request for Evidence notice explaining exactly what it needs and the deadline to respond. You must respond on time, or USCIS may deny the case.
Case Was Transferred/Case Was Received at Local Office
USCIS has sent your case to a local field office for further review. This transfer often happens before an interview or final decision. It does not mean there is a problem with your application.
Case Is Ready to Be Scheduled for An Interview
USCIS has completed initial review of your case and determined that an interview is required. Your case is now waiting for an available interview appointment at a local office. No action is required until USCIS schedules it.
Interview Was Scheduled
USCIS has scheduled your interview and will send you a notice with the date, time, and location. The notice may also list documents you should bring. Attend the interview as instructed to avoid delays or denial.
Case Was Sent to the Department of State
This status commonly appears for I-130 and I-129F petitions. After USCIS completes processing, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center, which prepares it for interview processing at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad under the U.S. Department of State.
Case Was Approved
USCIS approved your application or petition. Approval does not always mean you receive a document immediately. USCIS may need additional steps, such as card production or consular processing.
Case Was Denied
USCIS decided not to approve the case. They will generally mail a denial notice. The denial notice explains the reason and whether you can appeal or refile. USCIS instructions control your next options.
What to Do After You Check Your USCIS Case Status
Your next step depends on what USCIS shows.
- No update: Continue waiting and monitor your status periodically
- RFE issued: Respond exactly as USCIS instructs and meet the deadline
- Approved: Follow any next-step instructions in the notice
- Denied: Review the denial notice carefully before taking action
USCIS requires applicants to keep their address current. If you move, update your address as soon as possible to avoid missing notices.
What If Your USCIS Case Status Has Not Changed?
Long periods without updates are common. USCIS handles millions of cases, and many wait in line for review.
USCIS advises applicants to:
- Check official USCIS processing times before assuming a problem
- Avoid submitting duplicate inquiries
- Contact USCIS only after the case is outside normal processing time
A case status that stays the same for months does not automatically mean something is wrong.
Apps to Track Your Case Status at USCIS
You can find several apps for your phone or tablet to track the status of a USCIS case.
The app's designer says that they "track and analyze your US visa and immigration cases with algorithms and a million users have been already using our app!"
The app's creator claims it is "The ultimate app for tracking USCIS Citizenship and Immigration cases for the U.S.A. Quick access to Visa Bulletins and push notifications."
The app stores your case receipt number so that you can easily refresh the USCIS case status with the single swipe. You won't have to visit the USCIS website.
This list of apps is not a recommendation or endorsement, and none are affiliated with an official government agency. Please carefully research the apps before downloading to ensure that you’re comfortable sharing your USCIS case information with the organization providing the service. Some apps may also charge fees.
USCIS Case Status Frequently Asked Questions
About CitizenPath
CitizenPath provides simple, affordable, step-by-step guidance through USCIS immigration applications. Individuals, attorneys and non-profits use the service on desktop or mobile device to prepare immigration forms accurately, avoiding costly delays. CitizenPath allows users to try the service for free and provides a 100% money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve the application or petition. We provide support for the Adjustment of Status (Form I-485), Citizenship Application (Form N-400), and several other immigration services.
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