FAQ United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this category.

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The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency that administers lawful immigration to the United States. The USCIS evaluates a person’s eligibility for citizenship, naturalization, immigration based on familial status, permanent residency status, Visa extensions, and humanitarian aid. The USCIS also plays a major role in evaluating eligibility for asylum and work Visas.

The USCIS number is an Alien Registration Number (also known as “A-Number” or “Alien Number”). It is a seven to nine digit number that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services gives to most immigrants who apply to live in the United States. The USCIS requires you to provide your A-Number on most of your immigration documents.You will find your A-Number on your Permanent Resident Green Card, Employment Authorization Document, and Immigrant Visa.

You can check your USCIS case status by calling 1-800-375-5283 or by visiting USCIS Case Online. It will ask you for a 13-character receipt number, also known as a USCIS case number, which is present on all documentation that the USCIS sends about your application. Your USCIS case number is not the same as your A-Number.

First, use a subject line that notes the full title of your petition (for example, “RE: I-130, Petition for Alien Relative”). Second, introduce yourself and provide your own current citizenship/immigration status. Then, start your letter with a pleasant greeting and write your letter in a narrative format to support the overall purpose. In addition, you should note the documents that you are including in the package.

A biometrics appointment is an official security procedure that verifies the identity of the applicant, and assesses their criminal background and any previous immigration violations. If you are required to provide biometrics, you will receive a USCIS biometrics appointment notice, Form I-797C, Notice of Action. The notice will include the date, time, and location of your appointment. At your appointment, officials will take your fingerprints, along with your photograph. The USCIS will also require you to provide your signature

The USCIS allows you to check case processing times on their website. You cannot inquire about processing times via email. When you go to the USCIS website, you will see two boxes: one where you select the form that you need to fill out, and another for the field office or service center. After selecting the appropriate form, the website will provide options for the location. After that, you will click on “Get processing time.”