USCIS case was transferred to another office; does it mean delays?

Not always. It may speed things up or slow them down depending on the new office's workload.

Can I ask for my case to be transferred back?

Generally no. Jurisdiction is decided by USCIS.

USCIS case status message

What does "Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction" mean on USCIS case status?

Updated November 12, 2026 · Not legal advice

USCIS moved your case to a different office, which now handles it. Transfers are routine, often to balance workloads or to send the case to the field office that will interview you, and USCIS mails a transfer notice naming the new office.

At a glance
Status text	Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction
Seen on	Commonly I-485, I-130, I-765, N-400, I-751.
Timing	Depends on the new office. Look it up on the official processing times tool.
Usually next	Case Is Being Actively Reviewed By USCIS, Interview Was Scheduled

What it means

Your receipt number stays the same.
The new office's processing times now apply to your case.
A transfer is not a negative sign.

What to do

Read the transfer notice for the new office.
Use the new office when you check processing times.
Send any future mail about the case to the address USCIS gives you.

Check the exact wording and USCIS's explanation for your case on USCIS Case Status Online. The explanation USCIS shows under the status varies by form.

What to do next: stop refreshing

Add your receipt number and we'll email you the moment the status changes from "Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction".

Quick answers

USCIS case was transferred to another office; does it mean delays?: Not always. It may speed things up or slow them down depending on the new office's workload.
Can I ask for my case to be transferred back?: Generally no. Jurisdiction is decided by USCIS.

Sources

Checked: November 12, 2026

All USCIS case status messages