Why Is My Immigration Case Taking so Long?

Waiting for an immigration case to process can feel like an eternity. Whether you’re applying for a green card, citizenship, or a visa, delays are common — and frustrating. The reality is that processing times vary based on several factors, including case type, workload at service centers, additional reviews, and government backlogs.

In this guide, we’ll break down the main reasons behind these delays, how to track your case, and what you can do if your case is pending for an unusually long time.

Common Reasons Why Your Immigration Case Might Be Taking so Long

There isn’t a single reason for immigration case delays. Rather, a mix of factors can cause prolonged wait times. Let’s go through some of the most likely reasons your immigration application might be stuck.

USCIS Backlogs and High Application Volumes

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes millions of applications every year. A high number of applicants means longer processing times, especially for popular visa categories like family-based green cards and work visas.

For example, immediate relatives (spouses, parents, and unmarried children of U.S. citizens) have shorter wait times than family preference category applicants, who may wait years or even decades for visa availability.

Variable Processing Times

Your processing time will depend on which USCIS office or service center handles your case. Some centers have larger workloads than others, which can result in differing processing speeds.

You can enter your case number on the USCIS website to check the estimated average processing times at your assigned service center.

Additional Review and Background Checks

Certain applications require additional review, such as green card or citizenship applications that trigger background checks. USCIS works with the FBI and immigration authorities to conduct thorough screenings, especially if:

• You’ve traveled frequently to countries of concern.
• There are discrepancies in your immigration application or supporting documents.
• Your name matches someone on a government watchlist.

These security screenings can potentially add months or even years to the immigration process.

Errors or Missing Documents in Your Application

Even small mistakes, such as incorrect form type, missing signatures, or incomplete documents, can lead to delays or outright rejections. If USCIS needs clarification, it will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), which pauses processing until you submit the required information.

Policy Changes and Immigration Law Updates

Changes in immigration laws can also impact your case. For instance, new government policies may increase scrutiny of certain immigrants. Similarly, shifts in priority (such as fast-tracking asylum cases) can slow down other immigration services, and court rulings may affect how USCIS processes specific cases.

Limited Visa Availability in Preference Categories

If your petition falls under a family preference category (like sponsoring a sibling or married child), you may have to wait years for a visa number to become available. Only a limited number of visas are issued in these categories each year, and priority is given to immediate relatives.

Check USCIS’s Visa Bulletin regularly to see where your petition stands in the backlog.

Lost Files or System Issues

While rare, USCIS sometimes loses documents or misplaces applications. If your case has been delayed beyond normal processing times, it might be worth contacting an immigration lawyer to help escalate your inquiry.

How to Check Your USCIS Case Status

If your immigration case is taking longer than expected, the first step you should take is to track your application. Here’s how:

Use Your Receipt Number

When petitioners submit an application, USCIS provides a notice with a receipt number. You can enter this number into the agency’s Case Status Tracker to view updates.

Check the USCIS Processing Times Page

USCIS regularly updates estimated processing times for different immigration applications. You can compare your case against the posted average processing times to determine whether your case is outside the normal range.

Contact USCIS Directly

If your case has exceeded normal wait times, you have the following options:

• Call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283.
• Submit an online inquiry if your case is outside normal processing times.
• Request assistance through your local USCIS office by scheduling an Infopass appointment.

Be aware, however, that getting in touch with USCIS officials won’t necessarily guarantee that your case will proceed any faster.

What to Do If Your Immigration Case Is Delayed

There are practical steps you can take if you believe your immigration case is taking longer than it should. Here’s how to take action:

Request Case Updates from USCIS

If your petition is pending beyond normal processing times, you can file a Case Inquiry through the USCIS website or by calling the agency’s contact center.

File an Expedited Request (If Eligible)

In some cases, you may be able to request premium processing (available for certain work visas) or expedited processing if you:

• Have an emergency or urgent humanitarian reason (e.g., a sick family member in the U.S.).
• Can prove severe financial loss due to delays.

Clear, demonstrable errors on the part of USCIS officials can also be grounds for expedited processing.

Contact an Immigration Lawyer

If you’ve waited many years and still have no resolution, an immigration attorney may be able to help. Your lawyer can:

• Identify issues that might be causing delays.
• Help resolve Requests for Evidence or Notices of Intent to Deny.
• File a Mandamus lawsuit against immigration authorities to force action.

You’ve been patient long enough. Let our capable immigration lawyers help you navigate the complex system and achieve meaningful results.