Why Is Your USCIS Application Taking So Long?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) had over 8.5 million pending immigration cases in 2023. Yes, million. That’s not just a backlog, it’s a bottleneck of hopes, dreams, and lives on hold.

If you're reading this, you're likely feeling that frustration yourself. You submitted your application. You followed the instructions. And now? You wait. Sometimes for months. Sometimes for years. With no real clarity on what’s going on behind the curtain.

But what causes these delays?

1. Background Checks

USCIS conducts thorough background checks on every applicant. These checks are essential to national security but can be a bottleneck. If your name matches someone in a government database, or if there are discrepancies in your records, your application could be flagged for additional scrutiny. This isn’t just about criminal history; even minor errors, like an address mismatch, can lead to delays. Double-check your application before submission to minimize errors.

2. High Case Volume

USCIS processes millions of applications annually, and demand often outpaces capacity. Certain times of the year, like after a policy change or during visa lotteries, can see a surge in applications. These high-volume periods stretch USCIS resources thin, increasing wait times for everyone. It’s a system struggling to keep up with demand, and applicants—like you—bear the brunt of it.

3. Requests for Evidence (RFE): When More Information Is Needed

An RFE isn’t a rejection, it’s USCIS asking for additional details to make a decision on your case. While it’s an opportunity to strengthen your application, responding to an RFE can add weeks or months to your timeline. The key here? Be proactive. Submit a complete and well-documented application from the start. If you do receive an RFE, respond promptly and thoroughly.

4. Policy Changes and Staffing Issues

Immigration policies can shift with new administrations, creating confusion and additional hurdles. Staffing shortages at USCIS, exacerbated by budget constraints and pandemic-related disruptions, have also played a significant role in processing delays. While these factors are beyond your control, staying informed about policy updates can help you navigate the system more effectively.

5. Errors and Omissions: Avoiding Common Mistakes

Mistakes on your application, no matter how small, can lead to delays or even denials. Typos, missing signatures, or incomplete forms can all trigger processing hiccups. Triple-check your paperwork, or better yet, work with an immigration attorney to ensure your application is error-free.

How to Minimize Delays

While some factors are out of your hands, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of delays:

• Be thorough and accurate: Double-check every detail before submitting your application.

• Respond quickly to RFEs: Delays in responding can significantly extend your processing time.

• Stay informed: Keep up with USCIS updates and policy changes that might affect your case.

• Seek professional help: An experienced immigration attorney can guide you through the complexities, ensuring your application is as strong as possible.

We’re Here to Help

At Tran Flores Law, we understand how important your immigration goals are. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you navigate the process and maximize your chances of success. By working with us, you’ll have a trusted partner who can address your concerns, advocate for your case, and guide you every step of the way.

Call us at 📞 (512) 894-9984 to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll tackle the challenges and get you closer to achieving your immigration goals.