Receipt Notice Delays for Cases Filed at USCIS Lockboxes

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a statement this week, acknowledging delays in issuing receipt notices for cases filed at USCIS lockbox facilities. The USCIS attributes these delays to a significant increase in recent filings, along with a reduced processing capacity caused by the ongoing pandemic.

Suggestions to Reduce Delays

The USCIS recommends that stakeholders file cases online, for forms that can be filed in this manner. Unfortunately, only a small handful of forms are available to file online. The USCIS also suggests attaching a form G-1145 to the front of any application being submitted to a lockbox, which allows the applicant to request an eMail and/or text message from the USCIS confirming acceptance of the application.

Conclusion

The USCIS aims to have receipt notices issued to applicants and petitioners within 30 days of a case being filed. Given the spike in filings and reduced capacity to process cases during the pandemic, however, stakeholders should anticipate delays and plan accordingly.

Copyright © 2020, MURTHY LAW FIRM. All Rights Reserved