Waiting to hear back about your immigration case can be stressful—but thankfully, there are easy ways to check your status online without having to call or visit an office. Whether you applied for a green card, work permit, visa, or other benefit, staying informed can help you feel more in control of your case. Here’s how you can do it step-by-step.
Use the USCIS Online Case Status Tool
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides a free tool to track your case.
To use it, all you need is your 13-character receipt number, which can be found on the official notice USCIS sent you after receiving your application (the I-797 form).
Enter Your Receipt Number
Make sure you enter the number exactly as shown—no spaces, but do include all letters and numbers. For example, MSC1234567890. After entering it, click “Check Status” and you’ll see the most recent update from USCIS.
Read the Case Status Description
Once you check your case, the system will show you a status like:
- Case Received
- Request for Evidence (RFE) Sent
- Interview Scheduled
- Case Approved
- Card Mailed
Be sure to read the entire message for details and any instructions. If USCIS needs additional documents or action from you, they will say so here.
Sign Up for Case Updates
If you want real-time updates, you can create a USCIS online account to receive text and email notifications whenever there is a change in your case.
When to Call or Get Legal Help
If your case has been pending longer than normal processing times, or the status hasn’t changed in months, it may be time to speak with an immigration attorney to explore your options or request case assistance.
Staying informed is key. Need help understanding your immigration status or the next step in your process? Our office is here to help. Contact us for a consultation today.