Back to Blog
Document ServicesLos AngelesUpdated: January 1, 20268 min read

USCIS Case Status Inquiry in Los Angeles: Track Your Immigration Case

Understanding case status updates and expedite requests

SoCal Immigration Services
Reviewed by: Maria Santos, DOJ Accredited Representative

Quick Answer

Waiting for a USCIS decision can be stressful, especially when processing times are long. For Los Angeles area immigrants, we help track case status, understand processing updates, and navigate options when cases are delayed.

Reviewed for accuracy by

Maria Santos

DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience

Waiting for a USCIS decision can be stressful, especially when processing times are long. For Los Angeles area immigrants, we help track case status, understand processing updates, and navigate options when cases are delayed.

How to Check Your USCIS Case Status

There are several ways to check the status of your immigration case:
  • USCIS Online Account: Create an account at my.uscis.gov
  • Case Status Online: Check at egov.uscis.gov/casestatus
  • USCIS Contact Center: Call 1-800-375-5283
  • InfoPass Appointment: Schedule in-person inquiry (limited availability)
  • Case Inquiry (e-Request): Submit online inquiry for delayed cases

Understanding Case Status Messages

Status MessageWhat It Means
Case Was ReceivedUSCIS has your application and issued receipt
Case Is Being Actively ReviewedOfficer is working on your case
Request for Evidence SentUSCIS needs more documents from you
Case Was ApprovedYour application was granted
Interview ScheduledYou'll receive interview notice
Card Is Being ProducedGreen card or EAD in production
Case Was DeniedApplication was rejected

Current Processing Times

USCIS publishes processing times for each form and service center. Processing times vary significantly:

• I-130 Family Petition: 12-24+ months
• I-485 Adjustment of Status: 12-36 months
• I-765 EAD: 3-12 months
• N-400 Citizenship: 8-14 months
• I-751 Remove Conditions: 12-24 months

These times change frequently. Check the USCIS processing times page for current estimates.

When Can You Inquire About Your Case?

You can submit a case inquiry when your case is outside normal processing times. To check:
  1. 1
    Check Processing Times

    Visit uscis.gov/processingtimes for your form and service center

  2. 2
    Calculate Your Wait

    Compare your receipt date to posted processing times

  3. 3
    Submit Inquiry

    If outside processing time, submit e-Request or call USCIS

  4. 4
    Receive Response

    USCIS will respond with case update or explanation

Expedite Requests

USCIS may expedite cases in certain situations:
  • Severe financial loss to company or person
  • Emergency situation (medical, humanitarian)
  • Nonprofit organization requesting based on cultural/social interests
  • U.S. government interests (DOD, DHS, etc.)
  • USCIS error causing delay
  • Compelling interest to USCIS

How to Request an Expedite

To request expedited processing:
  • Call USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283)
  • Explain your emergency situation clearly
  • Have documentation ready to support your request
  • Get a service request number for tracking
  • Be prepared to submit evidence by mail or online

Common Reasons for Delays

  • Background check pending (FBI, CIA, etc.)
  • Request for Evidence (RFE) not yet responded to
  • High application volumes at service center
  • Security or fraud concerns requiring additional review
  • Missing documents or incomplete application
  • Name check delays (common with Arabic names)
  • Administrative processing for certain nationalities

When to Seek Help

Consider professional assistance if:

• Your case has been pending much longer than processing times
• You received an RFE and need help responding
• You haven't received any status updates in months
• You're facing an emergency requiring expedited processing
• You believe there's an error in your case

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q:Why is my case taking so long?

A: Common reasons include background check delays, high volumes, additional review for security, or missing information. Cases involving Arabic names sometimes take longer for name check processing.

Q:Can I expedite my case for job loss?

A: Severe financial loss may qualify for expedite, but you'll need documentation proving imminent loss (termination letter, bills, financial statements).

Q:What if USCIS lost my case?

A: This is rare but possible. Contact USCIS with your receipt number. If documents are lost, you may need to refile with proof of original filing.

Q:How long does an expedite request take?

A: USCIS typically responds to expedite requests within 5-10 business days, though processing the actual case may take longer if approved.

Q:Can I check someone else's case status?

A: You can check online with the receipt number, but making inquiries requires authorization from the applicant (attorney/representative filing).

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about immigration services in Los Angeles and does not constitute legal advice. SoCal Immigration Services is a document preparation company, not a law firm. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed immigration attorney.
Published: January 1, 2026Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Need Help With Your Case in Los Angeles?

Our team helps clients track cases, respond to RFEs, and navigate the USCIS system when cases are delayed.

Serving Los Angeles and all of Southern California

Related Articles

Customer Support

How can we help you today?