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Why Is My Immigration Case Taking So Long?
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The immigration process in the United States is a notoriously long and arduous road. However, although you can expect some wait times during your case, there are instances in which those wait times may be excessively long. The good news is that the long wait times may not necessarily be your fault, nor the fault of your immigration lawyer, who does not have much more control over the speed of your case than you do. Below are some of the reasons your case may be experiencing delays.
The System is Backed Up
Immigration authorities in the United States seemingly always have more applications than they can handle in a reasonable amount of time. This backlog is often the subject of not only news stories, but also congressional inquiries. Other than the employment-related petitioners that have paid additional fees for premium processes, the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) generally processes applications on a first-come, first-serve basis. In regards to specific family visa cases, the USCIS sometimes takes longer to make a decision on I-130 petitions.
You are Still on a Waiting List
Certain visas and green card applications have waiting times built right into the process. For example, individuals who are placed in the third preference category of family-based visas must wait approximately ten years before their priority date is set, and a green card and visa number is available. Unfortunately, there is little you can do about these wait times.
Your File is Lost
Many people imagine huge government buildings with their small immigration file lost somewhere in it. This may sound like paranoia, but it is not. The truth is that this happens sometimes. It is always recommended that you make a copy of your entire application prior to submitting it, and do not send original documents if the USCIS will accept a copy of the same documentation. You may be able to track your application in the event that it became lost, but this is not possible if you have not yet been assigned a case number.
You Have Not Notified the Government of a Change of Address
It is often not realistic to expect immigrants to remain at the same location while they wait for a decision on their immigration case. If you move and do not inform the USCIS, it could hurt your immigration case. In regards to wait times, if you have moved and not notified the USCIS, important documents may be sent to the wrong address, which could hold up your case indefinitely if the situation is not corrected as soon as possible.
Our Illinois Immigration Lawyers can Prevent Unnecessary Delays
It is true that Chicago immigration lawyers usually have little control over the time your case will take. However, at Kriezelman, Burton & Associates, we have the necessary experience to ensure your case is filed accurately and in a timely manner, and will not make any of the mistakes that can often hold up a case. If you are going through the immigration process, call us or contact us online to schedule a meeting with one of our skilled attorneys.
What Our Clients Say
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I highly recommend Brittni Rivera. We are very grateful to her and the entire team at Kriezelman Burton & Associates. Your dedication, responsiveness, and compassion made an enormous difference during an incredibly difficult time. Serving as the liaison between Brittni Rivera and our friend in ICE detention, I saw firsthand how tirelessly she worked guiding us through the process, answering every question, and never losing sight of the humanity at…
Andrea C. Ochoa is truly the best of the best. ❤️ Our family went through one of the most difficult and frightening experiences of our lives when Feruz was detained by ICE. We felt lost, scared, and unsure of what would happen next. From the very beginning, Andrea brought us not only her professionalism and deep legal knowledge, but also something even more important — hope. She guided us through…
Thank you Matthew for all your help with my case. Highly recommend
In the final stages of our employment based green card, Maya Flores was very helpful. She guided us through the details, made a mock up interview and then went with us to the actual appointment. We were able to see her expertise because she made some clarifications to the officer. Very good service, 5 well deserved stars.
Los mejores abogados !!
Estoy muy complacida con este bufete son muy bueno en lo que hacen,gracias a Maya flores por su trabajo desde el primer dĂa de mi proceso estuvo pendiente y nos dio un tiempo estimado
We had the chance to work with Maya Flores during the final stage of our employment-based green card process, and we are so thankful we did. Even though our case was already far along when she stepped in, she took full ownership right away. She carefully reviewed everything, prepared the documentation, suggested the right immigration forms, and made sure we felt ready. She was with us during the interview and…
I highly recommend Attorney Mathew Kriezelman and Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC. I had an outstanding experience working with their office. I petitioned for my parents, and the firm guided them through the entire adjustment of status process. From the very beginning, Attorney Mathew Kriezelman and Paralegal Silvia Dimayuga were professional, knowledgeable, and exceptionally supportive. They clearly explained each step, ensured all documentation was properly prepared, and promptly answered every…
Navigating the immigration system is incredibly stressful, but Justin Burton made the process seamless. They were patient with all my questions and explained every step of the legal process in a way I could easily understand. Their attention to detail is unmatched, and their staff is professional and kind. Highly recommended!
I cannot thank Justin Burton enough for their incredible work on my case. From our very first consultation, I felt a sense of relief knowing I was in expert hands. They were meticulous with the paperwork, always kept me updated, and ultimately helped me achieve a successful outcome. If you are looking for an immigration lawyer who truly cares about their clients, look no further.
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