This is one of the most common questions people ask during the immigration process. The honest answer is: it depends.
Some family-based green card cases move quickly, while others can take much longer. This can feel stressful, confusing, and sometimes scary. Do not worry too much though, since in most cases, long periods of silence are a normal part of the process.
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Waiting Period Examples
Below, you will find timelines that are based on real experiences shared by applicants. Every case is different, so they cannot help you predict exactly how long your case will take. However, knowing how long others waited may help you feel more at ease about your situation.
Check Official USCIS Processing Times
USCIS publishes estimated processing times for many immigration forms and offices. These estimates can help you understand general wait times for your case type. Keep in mind that these are only estimates.
You can check USCIS processing times here:
USCIS Processing TimesIs Your Case Delayed?
If you think your case may be delayed beyond normal processing times, you can:
- Submit a USCIS service request
- Contact USCIS for an update
- Speak with an immigration attorney if something seems unusual or urgent
In most cases, long wait times do not mean something is wrong with your case. With that being said, there are situations where it may make sense to follow up.
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You may want to take action if:
- Your case is outside the estimated USCIS processing time
- You have not received a receipt notice after filing
- USCIS says they mailed you something, but you never received it
- You received a request for evidence (RFE)
- Your interview was canceled or delayed without a new update
- There appears to be a mistake in your case status or paperwork
Request for Evidence (RFE)
USCIS might send you a request for evidence (RFE) while waiting. This means the officer reviewing your case needs more information before they can make a decision.
USCIS may ask for:
- Missing documents
- Updated financial information
- Proof of a real relationship or marriage
- Birth certificates, passports, or translations
- Medical exam records
- Additional forms or signatures
Read the notice carefully. The letter will explain what USCIS is asking for, which documents you need to send, and the deadline to respond.
It is important to:
- Respond before the deadline
- Include all requested documents if possible
- Send copies unless the notice asks for originals
- Keep copies of everything you submit for your records
After USCIS receives your response, your case will continue moving forward, but it will probably still take time before you receive another update.
Do Not Ignore an RFE
If you do not respond by the deadline, USCIS may deny your application.
If you are confused about what the RFE is asking for or are unsure how to respond, it may help to speak with an immigration attorney or accredited representative.
In response to the question "How to know if USCIS is satisfied with my RFE response?"
"If they deny your case, they were not satisfied. That's the only feedback you will get. They don't tell send you anything explicitly saying they are satisfied."
Read the ThreadGot an RFE?
Receiving an RFE can feel stressful, but don't panic. It can happen to anyone.
Waiting for an immigration case to move forward can take a long time. Many applicants describe the waiting period as one of the most difficult parts of the process because there is often very little they can do to speed things up.
You may not be able to control the timeline, but there are things you can do to stay prepared and make the waiting period feel more manageable.
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Focus on What You Can Control
Many applicants find themselves checking their case status multiple times a day. While it is natural to want updates, constantly monitoring your case can sometimes increase anxiety without providing new information.
Instead, try focusing on things that are within your control, such as:
Work or School Goals
Family and Friends
Hobbies and Interests
Financial Planning
Learning About Life in the U.S.
"Meditation. [If you] are the type of person who obsesses and or embraces intrusive thoughts no matter how non productive, I recommend reading up about meditation, grounding techniques, deflecting intrusive thoughts."
Read the Thread"I just started a mindfulness app called waking up...sent the application like 2 weeks ago and also doing it through consular processing. Definitely feeling that anxiety and the idea of how long I will I have to wait is really taxing. I recently started using this app and the way consciousness is framed is helping me little by little try and not pay so much attention to my intrusive thoughts. If not the app I also tried some YouTube mindfulness meditations by channels like daily calm and great meditation. This is what I've been trying for now to deal with it."
Read the ThreadConnect with Others
Many people find comfort in talking with others who are going through the same process. Immigration forums, community groups, and support networks can help you understand what to expect and remind you that you are not going through this alone.
r/USCIS on Reddit is a great place to start if you are looking for an online community. The stories you see in the sidebar on the right are from this forum. You can visit their page here:
r/USCIS Page