For individuals navigating immigration processes, staying informed about their USCIS case status is crucial. It not only provides insight into the progress of their application but also enables proactive measures. You should check normal processing, do service requests, and consider attorney intervention if delays are extreme.
What does ‘Actively Reviewed’ by USCIS Mean?
The phrase “actively being reviewed” can be misleading. Contrary to what it might imply, it doesn’t necessarily mean your case is being reviewed by an officer at that exact moment. Instead, it’s more of a “holding place” status. Once your case reaches this point, it means that it has been processed through the initial stages and is now awaiting further review, typically by a USCIS officer. However, don’t expect this to indicate that a decision is imminent or that someone is urgently looking at your case.
At this stage, USCIS is typically preparing to assess your case in detail. The officer will go over your forms, supporting evidence, and possibly identify any missing or additional information needed before proceeding. This process can be time-consuming and may take weeks, months, or even longer, depending on your specific case and USCIS’s workload.
What Happens During “Active Review”?
While your case is in “actively being reviewed” status, whether it’s an I-130 petition or you see an H1B actively review update, USCIS is checking the accuracy and completeness of your documents. They may also look for any inconsistencies or issues that could require additional information from you. If anything is missing or unclear, you may receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), which will outline what’s needed to move forward.
It’s important to note that the length of time spent in this stage can vary widely. Depending on the complexity of your case, the type of application, and the volume of applications at your local USCIS office, your case could remain in this status anywhere from a few weeks to several months—or even longer. Some cases stay in “actively being reviewed” for up to a year or more, especially if there are backlogs or delays at USCIS.
What You Can Expect
While it’s natural to feel anxious when your case is in this holding pattern, there’s no need to panic. It doesn’t mean that your case is stuck or that nothing is happening. In fact, it’s just part of the process. The status “actively being reviewed” means your case is being actively considered, but there may still be several more steps before a decision is made.
If your case has been in this status for an extended period, you might consider checking for updates on USCIS’s online portal or contacting them to inquire about the status. In some cases, if you’re outside the normal processing times, USCIS may allow you to request further attention to your case.
Common Confusion Around “Actively Being Reviewed”
Many people report seeing the “actively being reviewed” status and assume that means their case is being worked on right away, but that’s not always the case. As immigration lawyers have pointed out, this is more of a placeholder status. The actual review, where an officer examines your case in depth, typically happens later in the process, often just before the next big step, such as an interview or a decision to approve or deny your application.
It’s also worth noting that the “actively being reviewed” status can sometimes appear even when no one is actually reviewing your case. This is particularly common in cases where USCIS is dealing with a large backlog of applications. The phrase may appear simply because your case has passed through earlier stages and is waiting for the next step in the process.
What are the Stages of a Case Pending with USCIS?
USCIS cases progress through four stages:
- Initial Application and Receipt Notice: Begins with application submission and receipt issuance containing a unique tracking number.
- Pending Status: USCIS conducts background checks, verifies documents, and evaluates eligibility.
- Actively Reviewed Status: Beyond initial stages, possibly involving further steps like requests for evidence or interviews.
- Final Decisions: Eventually leads to approval, denial, or requests for more evidence (RFE).
What Are Normal USCIS Processing Times and How Do I Check?
Normal USCIS processing times vary based on factors like the type of application and current workload. To check processing times:
- Visit the USCIS website’s processing times page: USCIS Processing Times.
- Select the appropriate form and field office from the dropdown menu.
- View the estimated processing times displayed.
How do I Check My USCIS Case Status?
Here’s how you may track your case:
- Online Tracking: Utilize the USCIS website’s online tracking system using your receipt number.
- Contact the USCIS Contact Center: Use the Ask Emma tool or call for updates or inquiries.
- Phone: 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833), Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
- Written Queries or In-Person Appointments: Submit written queries via mail or email or schedule an in-person appointment at your local USCIS office. This used to be called an “infopass appointment” but now you can request this on myuscis
Why is My Case Taking Longer Than Normal to Process at USCIS?
Delays in active review status may occur due to reasons such as incomplete information, background checks, increased workload, administrative errors, policy changes, or external events. Seek assistance from the American Visa Law Group for expert guidance and compliance with immigration laws.
What Should I Do While USCIS is Actively Reviewing My Case?
These are the best practices to ensure optimal processing on your case:
- Maintain organized documentation related to your case.
- Monitor processing time updates from USCIS.
- Follow up appropriately with USCIS by contacting them by phone or online and put in a service request if beyond normal processing time.
- Seek legal assistance from an immigration attorney for expert guidance if delays become excessive.
What If My Case Is Taking Far Longer Than Normal?
If your case is significantly delayed, you may consider seeking a writ of mandamus. This legal action compels USCIS to adjudicate your case promptly. However, it’s crucial to consult with legal experts like the American Visa Law Group to assess the suitability of this option.
Conclusion
Staying informed during the USCIS case review process is essential. Consulting experienced immigration attorneys like the American Visa Law Group ensures the necessary steps are taken for a successful outcome.