How Can You Check the Status of a Green Card Application?

January 13, 2026

Waiting for a decision on your green card application can be one of the most stressful parts of the immigration journey. The uncertainty of the timeline often leads to anxiety for many applicants. At Zaveri Law Firm P.C., we understand that you are eager to begin your new life in the United States, and staying informed about your case is essential for your peace of mind. Knowing how to track your progress can help alleviate some of this stress.

Here are the primary ways to check the status of your green card application:

• Use the USCIS Online Case Status Tool: Enter your receipt number on the official USCIS website for immediate updates.
• Create a USCIS Online Account: Sign up for an account to view your case history and receive automatic notifications.
• Submit an e-Request: Use this tool if your case is taking longer than the posted processing times.
• Contact the USCIS Contact Center: Call for assistance if you have specific questions or cannot access online tools.

Using the USCIS Online Case Status Tool

The most direct way to check your status is through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. To use this tool, you will need your receipt number. This is a unique 13-character identifier that USCIS assigns to each application. You can find this number on the Notice of Action (Form I-797) that you received after filing your application.

Once you have your receipt number (which typically begins with three letters like EAC, WAC, LIN, or SRC), simply enter it into the “Check Case Status” field on the USCIS homepage. The system will display the last action taken on your file and the current step in the process.

Creating a USCIS Online Account

For a more comprehensive view, we recommend creating a personal account on the USCIS website. This allows you to manage your case more effectively than simply checking the status as a guest user. With an account, you can:

• View your entire case history and next steps.
• Receive email or text message notifications whenever there is an update.
• View personalized case completion time estimates.

This proactive approach ensures you never miss a critical update, such as a scheduled biometrics appointment or an interview notice.

Handling Delays and Challenges

Even with these tools, applicants often encounter delays. It is important to compare your timeline with the USCIS Check Case Processing Times page. This page lists how long specific forms are taking at different field offices or service centers.

If your case is pending longer than the posted processing time, you may submit an “Outside of Normal Processing Time” e-Request through the USCIS website. This prompts the agency to look into your file.

Sometimes, the status might not change for months, or you might see a status like “Request for Evidence (RFE) Sent.” If you see this, it means USCIS needs more information before they can proceed. Responding to an RFE correctly and promptly is crucial; a mistake here can lead to a denial.

We Are Here to Guide You

Navigating government websites and understanding legal terminology can be overwhelming. If you are having trouble interpreting your case status or if your application seems stuck in an administrative backlog, Zaveri Law Firm P.C. is here to help. We can communicate with USCIS on your behalf, ensuring that your case is moving forward and that your rights are protected. Contact us today for the personalized support you deserve.