The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for processing immigration applications in the country. However, the current backlog caused by COVID-19 and the previous administration’s policies has made the immigration process lengthy and frustrating for applicants.
USCIS is handling an unprecedented volume of forms while dealing with limited resources and funding, making the process even more challenging for those seeking immigration benefits.
As USCIS actively reviews cases, applicants must exercise patience and understand the procedures involved in having their case reviewed. In this article, we will explore the USCIS overview and funding, processing time and backlog, and procedures after fingerprinting.
By understanding these factors, applicants can better navigate the process and expedite their case as much as possible in 2022.
USCIS Overview and Funding
In light of the current context of USCIS case review requiring patience in 2022, it is important to note that USCIS is primarily funded through processing fees and is responsible for internal aspects of the immigration and naturalization system, including work authorization and asylum, while not issuing visas.
This means that USCIS relies heavily on the fees paid by applicants to sustain its operations, and the length of time it takes to process cases is largely affected by the amount of funding it receives.
As such, USCIS has been known to prioritize cases that may yield immediate benefits and delay processing of cases that may not have a significant impact on its operations.
Despite the challenges posed by funding constraints, USCIS is committed to ensuring that it adjudicates cases with the utmost care and accuracy.
The agency is aware that even minor errors or oversights can have far-reaching consequences for both applicants and the US immigration system as a whole.
Therefore, it is essential for applicants to be patient while waiting for a decision on their applications and to regularly check the status of their cases online or contact USCIS customer service for updates.
Processing Time and Backlog
The processing time for immigration applications can vary significantly depending on the backlog and prioritization of USCIS. In recent years, USCIS has experienced a significant backlog of cases due to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in immigration policies. As a result, the processing time for some applications may take several months or even years.
USCIS prioritizes forms that may yield immediate benefits and has little value in quickly processing forms if the next step is years away. However, if the application status does not change in 120 days, the applicant can call the office and request expedited processing.
While it is essential to remain patient while waiting for a decision on an application, individuals can also regularly check the status online and contact USCIS customer service to inquire about the progress of their application.
Procedures after Fingerprinting
After fingerprinting, procedures are conducted to assist USCIS in determining an applicant’s eligibility for a green card, which may include scheduling an interview, approving the application, requesting additional evidence, or denying the application. Depending on the complexity of the case, USCIS may schedule an interview to further evaluate the applicant’s eligibility. The interview is an opportunity for USCIS to ask questions and clarify any doubts about the application. The interviewer may ask about the applicant’s family history, employment, and education, among other things. USCIS may also approve the application after fingerprinting if there are no issues with the case. In some instances, USCIS may request additional evidence to support the applicant’s case or deny the application if they find that the applicant is not eligible for a green card.
To help understand the procedures after fingerprinting, the following table provides an overview of the possible outcomes and actions that USCIS may take:
| Outcome | Action |
|---|---|
| Schedule an interview | USCIS may schedule an interview to further evaluate the applicant’s eligibility. |
| Approve the application | If there are no issues with the case, USCIS may approve the application after fingerprinting. |
| Request additional evidence | In some instances, USCIS may request additional evidence to support the applicant’s case. |
| Deny the application | USCIS may deny the application if they find that the applicant is not eligible for a green card. |
| No action taken | In some cases, USCIS may take no action after fingerprinting, and the applicant must wait for updates on their case status. |
Overall, after fingerprinting, the procedures that USCIS undertakes can significantly impact an applicant’s eligibility for a green card. It is essential to remain patient and follow up with USCIS regularly to ensure that the application process is moving forward.