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My USCIS case is outside normal processing time. What do I do?

Updated · Not legal advice

Check the official processing times page for your form and office: if today is past the "receipt date for a case inquiry" shown for your receipt date, submit a case inquiry through USCIS e-Request or the USCIS Contact Center. If that does not resolve it, you can ask the CIS Ombudsman for case assistance or contact your member of Congress.

Escalation ladder
StepWhenHow
1. Case inquiryPast the case inquiry dateUSCIS e-Request or Contact Center (800-375-5283)
2. CIS OmbudsmanAfter trying USCIS customer serviceCase assistance request on dhs.gov
3. Congressional officeAny time, usually after step 1Your U.S. Representative's or Senator's caseworker

Before you escalate

  • Make sure your address is current with USCIS.
  • Check that you answered any request for evidence.
  • Note your receipt date, form, office and the exact case inquiry date shown.

Quick answers

How do I submit a case inquiry outside normal processing times?
Use USCIS e-Request (egov.uscis.gov/e-request) and choose the option for cases outside normal processing times, or call the USCIS Contact Center.
Should I contact my congressman if my USCIS case is stuck?
You can. Congressional caseworkers can send an inquiry to USCIS. Most people try a USCIS case inquiry first.
My I-485 has been pending 2 years; how do I check if that is normal?
Look up I-485 for your office on the processing times page and compare your receipt date with the case inquiry date. For employment cases, also check whether your priority date is current.

What to do next

Add your receipt number and get an email the day your status changes.

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Sources

Checked: November 12, 2026

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