What Should You Do When USCIS is Actively Reviewing My Case?
Being an immigrant who is either on the verge of immigration process, I am very familiar with the importance of keeping an eye on my USCIS case. It provides the development and status of an application and allows the applicants to know what is going on and to remain active in this process. This article, I will give my thoughts on the meaning of a case that is actively reviewed by USCIS and how to handle the situations while they run.
What Does 'My Case is Actively Reviewed' Mean?
By saying that a USCIS case is actively being reviewed, it means that an adjudicating official is presently scrutinizing the application. Initially after the submission of the application and receipt notice stage, the case reaches a pending status. The reason for which the knowledge of your case is so important is because:
- The reality of the timeline and the process involved in your case can only be experienced if you know your case status.
- The fact of your participation in the active consideration process is a source of happiness.
- You can immediately deal with any issues that the review process reveals.
The Different Steps of a USCIS Case
While USCIS is reviewing a case, the following are the stages that might be taking place behind the scenes:
Initial application and receipt notice
It all begins with the application submission. Soon after, USCIS sends away the application package and issues a receipt notice to the applicant. It is a piece of paper which is both USCIS' acknowledgment that the application has been filed and a unique receipt number which allowing tracking of the progress of the case. Although the receipt number has been created, USCIS will not send you the GREEN they received the application yet.
Pending status
After the first application and the receipt notice stage, the case enters the pending status. USCIS may conduct the following during this phase:
Background checks
- Verification of supporting documentation
- Evaluation of eligibility
Actively reviewed status
When the case is actively reviewed by USCIS, it is the stage if it lasts for a few more days that the application has gone through the initial stages. While in this status, some of the stages the case could undergo may be:
A request for evidence (RFE)
- An interview
- Further review by a supervisor
Final decisions
After being on the actively reviewed status for a period, it always ends in a decision that Washington takes. Some of the decisions a case can be given include approval, denial or asking for more evidence.
How to Check Your USCIS Case Status
You have multiple choices of monitoring the status of your case:
Online tracking via the USCIS website
Direct to the official website of the USCIS on www.uscis.gov, and trace your case using its internet monitoring system. You will have to show them your receipt number, which can easily be found from your receipt notice.
The USCIS Contact Center
Communicate directly with the USCIS Contact Center to get a hold of an authorized officer who can give you the required information concerning your case and additionally, discuss all the queries or concerns.
Live assistance
If you want to talk to them on the phone then dial their customer service number which is 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833). They work from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday to Friday.
Written queries or in-person appointments
You have three options to reach out to the USCIS agency: you can either send written queries via mail or email or schedule an in-person appointment at your district's USCIS office.
What to Do if Your Case is Actively Reviewed by USCIS
If your case is being actively reviewed by USCIS, there are the following steps you can take in this situation:
Follow up
It has been the status of "actively reviewed" for quite some time and you may want to follow up with USCIS to learn the status of your case. However, do not overdo it and make them be bothered with too many inquiries at once as it is possible. After the check has been done, the passport will be given to the applicant.
Keep documentation on hand
The application process requires you to have a file that contains all the documents you have related to the case. It is a great convenience to have a well-structured folder with all your case documentation in case you have to give more proof or information.
Monitor changes in processing times
Look for updates on the USCIS website regarding the time for the processing of different types of cases. This way you can get an idea of your case's possible timeframe of processing and also notice any significant changes or delays that might affect your case.
Seek legal assistance
If you think your case has been delayed or contains problems, it is recommended that you talk to an immigration lawyer. They are the experts of the field, who are able to provide piece of advice and consultation, offer effective case management, and resolve complicated issues.
Conclusion
The most important thing to do during the USCIS case review process is to stay updated on the process. By knowing what it means when your case is being actively reviewed by USCIS and making the needed changes you will go through the process without stress. In fact, if you need help with your case, seeking the help of a reputable immigration attorney who will guide you through the process will result in the case being settled well.
