A lawyer for the people.

If you are anything like me, then we both want the same thing, results and now! It has been a horrible 2023 with wait times with USCIS, and little hope for change in 2024. As an example, I sent a I-130 in January 2023, and wait times posted were expected 6-9 months wait for processing and decision. Now the USCIS system says 18-24 months! It is a frustrating feeling for my clients and making the text to them that they will not get a decision as soon as we thought is not an easy thing to do. My clients always ask me well just call them right? Or let’s request them to expedite. No, it is not like that. USCIS has no operators to speak to. In fact an automated computer speaks to you and gives you the same information you will get online using the case status online system on www.uscis.gov . You are also not allowed to submit an inquiry on your case if it is not outside the expected window time. So when they say 18 months you are stuck waiting 18 months before you can even send a request for more information. What else can I do? Well you can always contact your congressman office. Congressman have direct communication with USCIS officials and can possibly get more answers. Unfortunatly they too will get the answer that says, “wait 18 months then call back”. So what do we do? Use the case status online, and when the time frame is completed submit an inquiry. Use congressman when your case is outside the window time frame expected. Pay attention to mail and email. If you move you will lose important contact from USCIS and that can delay processing Be patient. It is a broken system your attorney or you have no control over. Wishing you all a happy new year of health, prosperity and PATIENCE.