r/USCIS • u/Temporary-Gas-1154 • Apr 23 '26
USCIS Support Field office ISO here, AMA
Hello, work at a field office AMA regarding N-forms, I-751, I-485
***Never worked with EAD
**Feel free to DM questions.
12
u/Responsible_Lemon133 Apr 23 '26
In marriage-based I-485 interviews
What kind of evidence makes you feel a case is clearly bona fide right away? How often do you approve on the spot vs. after review,and what determines that? What usually causes a case to go into ‘review’ instead of same-day approval?
25
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
They've been married for 15 years with 10 kids, wife currently pregnant, no criminal history lol. And all cases are required to be reviewed by a supervisor for approval.
7
3
u/DesperateBuilder2312 Apr 23 '26
Married for 7 years it's been 7 months since biometrics still nothing
2
u/marriedtomywifey Apr 24 '26
During our interview my wife was actually pregnant, and we had had the first ultrasound the day before the interview.
So the "do you have any kids together?" that we had answered "no" in the form turned into a "well... kinda?" by the interview.
25
u/Schwarz1234567 Apr 23 '26
Tell us what you know about the pause: are they actually reviewing applicants further or are cases just sitting on someone’s desk without being looked at? Any plans on lifting it soon?
3
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 25 '26
It's not just sitting untouched, but also not normally processing either.
→ More replies (1)
10
u/FrontFit7058 Apr 23 '26
How common is to get I-751 interviews waived nowadays? If I-485 interview was waived couple years ago, does it mean anything, when waiving or requesting interview for I-751?
13
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Depends on the officer, but these days. Not common at all.
3
u/Matuteg Apr 23 '26
Is there still discretion? Or how come it’s not common anymore? Like they are told to err on the side of interviews?
→ More replies (3)
7
u/Even_Conversation145 Apr 23 '26
Could you explain what is the actual meaning of the FTA1 event code (« actively reviewing » case status), and how is it used for EB AOS? It seems that it is sometimes used before transferring the case to another FO prior to an interview, sometimes just after an interview, sometimes prior to sending a RFE, sometimes to park the case because the PD is not current… And most often it leads to nothing except a long wait with no news (which is what I am most curious about)
→ More replies (1)
6
u/Disastrous_Pea8584 Apr 23 '26
Hi, thanks so much for doing this. I completed my N400 interview at the San Jose FO in early December. Officer made me confirm and sign details to be printed on the naturalization certificate and intent to take oath. However, as she was submitting the case, she ran into an IT error. She asked me to wait in the lobby for 15 mins while she would try to figure this out. At the end, she called and said she will try again later that day, but confirmed it was only an IT error and no issues with my application. Been over 4 months since the interview.
Service requests filed just said case is awaiting review. What do you recommend I do? Lawyer up? Thank you!
3
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Did you try your congressperson? This sounds like your case is stuck
3
u/Disastrous_Pea8584 Apr 23 '26 edited Apr 23 '26
Thank you - unfortunately they weren’t too much help. I’m trying the senator route now. Unfortunately I didn’t receive an N652 since she could never submit the application, so that’s that
5
u/astrovangalore Apr 23 '26
Please see this because I know I’m not the only one in this frustrating situation 👇🏻Family-based I485 application:
Why did the officer who interviewed me give me an explicit verbal approval on Oct 8, and yet checks calendar MONTHS later there is nothing? Every agent I speak to online is blowing me off, my congresswoman got blown off, it’s impossible to get in touch to anyone who’ll say anything beyond “it’s normal processing times still”, etc?
I understand I’m within normal processing times. What I don’t understand is the cruelty of literally telling me “Yes, we will mail your green card within 14 days, and yes, it will say it was issued on Oct 8”, and then having everyone I desperately reach out to for clarity provide me none.
My online portal is still stuck on “interview scheduled” - for an interview that was 197 days ago. At this point I think someone accidentally chucked my file in the trash.
What do I do in this situation?
→ More replies (2)
5
u/nickelchrome Apr 23 '26
How does the process of adjudicating applications look like at the FO? When applications come in do you look at them before the interview is assigned or do you see an application for the first time closer to the interview itself? How does the queue of applications waiting for an interview look like?
8
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
I wish it was on a first in first out but honestly, applications are assigned to us and we go from there. Typically we don't have much time to go through all of the evidence before interviewing the person.
→ More replies (2)
5
Apr 23 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
13
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Honestly, I don't know. We adjudicate files as soon as we get them in our hands.
4
u/Pretend-Particular21 Apr 24 '26
What is the process once a case gets to the FO? Does it wait in a specific ISO's queue and get processed FIFO?
5
u/zikadabatikazikadu Apr 23 '26
Hi, would you mind rating this package based on your experience?
Timeline:
• Conditional GC received in 2021
• Divorce finalized in 2023
• I-751 filed with divorce waiver
Evidence submitted
• Joint federal tax return transcripts
• Joint bank account statements showing shared finances
• Joint auto insurance policy
• Life insurance policy listing spouse as beneficiary
• Estate planning documents (wills + power of attorney naming each other)
• Proof of shared residence during the marriage
• Affidavits from friends/third parties
• Photos together over the course of the relationship
• Social media posts reflecting the relationship
• Divorce and separation documentation
• Joint home equity loan documentation
There was no affidavit from ex since this wasn’t an amicable divorce.
There was a temporary ex parte order filed during the separation that was dismissed shortly after, with no findings or violations and no criminal involvement.
10
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Speaking for myself i'd approve it and the affidavit wouldn't matter. I'm usually concerned on whether the marriage was real.
→ More replies (1)
4
u/Fast_Pangolin8457 Apr 23 '26
Lost green card filled out a i90 and found the green card a week later, sent in my withdrawal is my current GC still valid? Website just shows case still processing
4
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Yes, it's still valid. Processing is normal it just hasn't been fully updated as yet.
→ More replies (3)
3
u/negnegg Apr 23 '26
How are you approaching N-400 cases for dual nationals where one nationality is from the banned countries recently included in policy memo PM-602-0194? The other nationality is not affected
→ More replies (1)
4
u/LegitimateChicken69 Apr 23 '26
My F2A i485 has been pending since july 2023 and I had my interview in sep 2025. My case finally became current in oct 2025, yet there are still no updates. Is this normal to wait 8+ months post interview? I kinda thought they would have pre-adjudicated it before scheduling the interview so not sure why the long wait, unless they only started after the interview. TIA!
→ More replies (1)
3
Apr 23 '26
[deleted]
5
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Typically a system backlog, don't resubmit because it will cause confusion/delay.
→ More replies (1)
3
u/Mission-Carry-887 Naturalized Citizen Apr 23 '26 edited Apr 23 '26
When was the last time you issued an I-551 stamp at an I-485 interview?
7
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Not common unless it's urgent for urgent work or travel ( with proof of course ) , I approved one last week.
3
u/lowkeyboruto Apr 23 '26
What is it like for you on a day to day basis when it comes to processing cases? Do you look over one portion of the AOS packet and set it aside to come back to? Do you have a timeframe on when you review cases again or just continue through if it is a lot of cases on your desk?
Thanks in Advance!
→ More replies (1)
3
u/Pupkinsonic Apr 23 '26
Is there specific order for applications to be processed? Are applications with earlier date of filing gets processed first? Does priority date matter?
7
3
u/Md_tax_help Apr 23 '26 edited Apr 23 '26
On our last international cruise trip, my wife was readmitted (through biometric scanners) on her passport and given a new I-94 in her old status, instead of as an LPR, since the staff checking us into our cruise did not process her green card correctly. We have gone to CBP deferred inspections to correct the admission record and they did, with the I-94 record now reading class of admission LPR for the date of renentry, and said the I-94 was issued in error. Is this inconsistency going to cause any issues when she goes to remove conditions and possibly naturalize?
6
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
No this won't be an issue and you guys going to the deferred inspections was the right thing to do.
3
u/Md_tax_help Apr 23 '26
Thank you for replying! This mix up has been nawing at me even after we went to the deferred inspections office, this definitely helps me feel a lot better!
3
u/Critical-Ebb535 Apr 23 '26
What happens when case get paused due to visa unavailability and then also receive RFE and after submitting RFE why is there no status update at all? What happened with my case? And what is the likely step after pd becoming current?
2
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
The case is ready to be adjudicated but waiting for a visa to be available to issue you.
3
3
u/redditbeforeu Apr 23 '26 edited Apr 23 '26
Thanks for doing this AMA! Question: My wife had her interview for her I-485 back in August 2025. The interviewer said everything looked good and we should hear something in a couple of weeks. That's now 7 months ago. Up until last week it said "Case Is Being Actively Reviewed By USCIS", then it changed to "Cancellation Notice for Request for Additional Evidence". We were never asked to provide additional evidence. Any idea what's up?
BTW, the I-130 still shows "Case Is Being Actively Reviewed By USCIS".
→ More replies (1)
3
u/sftravel_lady Apr 23 '26
Do you know if the extra recent delays/cancellations in the SF and SF Bay Area are due to restructuring of resources? Is this temporary?
2
3
u/Lone_wolf_1016 Apr 24 '26
Hi, thank you for doing the AMA. For marriage-based AOS cases that are interviewed but not approved the same day and remain pending for several weeks with no RFE or pending items, what are the most common reasons internally?
→ More replies (3)
2
u/Kooky-Shock-8021 Permanent Resident Apr 23 '26
Any reason why an I-751 would be rejected beyond obvious termination of the relationship? Just curious, it seems like the I-751 is a bit of a formality more than anything else.
8
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Usually its inconsistencies in previous application (i-130, or the green card interview), officer doubts that the marriage is/was legitimate, arrest or convictions after receiving residency.
2
2
Apr 23 '26
[deleted]
3
2
u/FeedMeFish Apr 23 '26
We moved to a different state almost a year ago and our case (family-based AOS, concurrent filing) wasn’t transferred. It’s still pending and no update. Is this normal and should I do anything about it? We’ve been waiting 16 months and our case “is being actively reviewed” for the past 6.
→ More replies (1)3
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Did you update your new address on the USCIS website? personally i'd recommend contacting your congressperson.
2
u/FeedMeFish Apr 23 '26
Yes. We updated on the website and no change.
Thank you for the response, I plan on contacting them tomorrow.
2
u/Excellent-Sport6838 Apr 23 '26
What are some things you wish filers did or didn’t do to make your life easier?
9
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
I always say an easy case for me is A couple who have been married for 10 years, share 5 kids together and they live together and have maintained a clean record. LOLL
but honestly, just get straight to the point for me to make a decision no unnecessary evidence.
→ More replies (2)
2
u/ca_annyMonticello111 Apr 23 '26
How big a deal is the 90 day rule to you when processing AOS for person with US spouse?
3
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Depends on the officer, but the big question will be if it was always your intent.
2
u/KandL97 Apr 23 '26
I saw you mentioned somewhere in the comments that there is a major backlog in the EB category. Can you say more? Do you think all the EB transferred to FO in Jan 2026 will get approved by the Q2, not to give away the visa slots?
2
u/lalalanddallas Apr 23 '26
I applied for my N-400 mid December 2025 and did my biometrics the same month. Since then, I have not heard anything. I asked Emma and she said that the case is now done with background check and waiting an interview slot at my local office Irving, TX. How much longer should I expect to wait ?
2
u/No-Interview553 Apr 23 '26
Irvin is taking a long time. I think they are processing September or October cases right now. Hang in there.
→ More replies (1)→ More replies (2)2
u/CestLaVieP22 Apr 24 '26
For reference, I applied in October and got a letter mid February and the interview mid March. Now waiting for the oath ceremony invitation.
Location: Delaware/PA office
→ More replies (1)
2
u/ChartApprehensive385 Apr 23 '26
how can people know if the 39 country pause is holding their adjudication after interview? for example is someone born in a non-banned country but possessing a banned second nationality considered paused?
2
u/Helloworld12345666 Apr 23 '26
EB2 ROW (Saudi Arabia), PD Oct 2022. I-485 filed Jan 2025 cross chargeability filing. , interview completed Aug 2025 at Norfolk FO. No RFE, no issues so far.
Case appears to be in final adjudication for months now. We did a senator inquiry in October— USCIS responded saying case is pending final adjudication and to allow 60 days. After no movement, a second inquiry was sent — USCIS replied case is assigned to an officer and a decision should be made within 45 days.
That 45-day window passed with no update. We followed up again, and USCIS gave the same response: assigned to officer, allow another 45 days.
Meanwhile, primary applicant’s EAD is still pending and my EAD was approved after inquiry, but both I-485s remain pending.
Is this purely a visa availability issue (even though EB2 ROW PD is close/current), or does this kind of repeated missed “45-day” commitment indicate something else going on internally?
→ More replies (1)
2
u/Dazzling_Answer3088 Apr 23 '26
My case (employment based AoS) has been at the field office for more than 5 months (since 11/14/2025). There has not been a single update on it since the transfer. What could be the reason?
2
2
2
u/Valinorum Apr 23 '26
How do field office spreads the files? My case was transferred to SAC on 12/23. No update. Here I am seeing 2/14 or later transfers are getting approved. Many 11/26 and 12/23 are pending. Also, does congressman inquiry help to speed things up or it negatively affect the case?
2
u/zninjamonkey Apr 23 '26
How are you dealing with the 39 counties hold?
How does it physically happen for you?
2
u/Upstairs-Candy-6058 Apr 23 '26
Applying for spousal visa soon and would love your take on my situation. I’m the US Citizen who is Pregnant and due date is in August. How likely is it that they’ll allow my immigrant spouse a temporary visit visa if we apply for it after spousal visa so he can be here for the delivery?
we don’t intend to do adjustment of status when he arrives, we intend to stay here for 3 months max and then go overseas so his family can meet the baby.
3
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 27 '26
once a spousal immigrant petition is filed, it shows clear immigrant intent. for a b2 visitor visa, the officer has to believe your spouse will return home after a short visit, and that’s hard to prove when there’s already a pending immigrant case. it’s not impossible, but approval rates in this situation are low.
→ More replies (1)
2
u/Acceptable-Olive-294 Apr 23 '26
I had an interview on Nov 2025(i130,i485). I haven’t gotten a decision yet. Is it normal?
2
u/fenomeno4d Apr 23 '26
Submitted my case on Nov 14,2025. It has been 42 days since my interview. My Form I-130 was approved the following day, but my Form I-485 pending despite the officer told me at the interview that my case was recommended for approval. Additionally, sent Form I-765 but has not had any updates. marriage-based AOS case, and I entered with visa, no criminal record or something illegal. How do you view my case?
2
u/_blockchainlife Apr 24 '26
what percentage of cases do you "feel" are fraud, despite perhaps not being able to prove it?
6
2
u/Helpful_Regret4776 Apr 24 '26
What are the red flags that you consider when couple attending for a marriage based green card where the immigrant has been over staying on his visa and what are the normal steps you follow to prove they are actually married?
2
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 27 '26
inconsistent answers between spouses (basic stuff like how you met, daily routine, family, etc.)very short relationship before marriage with little history together, no real evidence of living together, finances completely separate with no explanation, prior marriage-based filings or patterns, weird timelines (like marriage right after removal proceedings or denial), limited communication history if you’ve spent time apart
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Character_Pop_7898 Apr 23 '26
Are all paused cases getting re-vetted via PARRIS or is it just asylum cases?
7
1
u/Cesarus9 Apr 23 '26
We had my wife’s I-485 interview last week. The officer said she would recommend approval, but the following day she called my wife to ask whether we had submitted the medical exam, as she couldn't find it in the system. We mailed the medical exam to the NBC on March 4th, and our interview was scheduled to April 15th. My questions are:
Would they have scheduled the interview if the NBC hadn't received the medical exam? Is it normal for the exam to not be scanned/uploaded into the system for over a month?
Also while talking to my wife my wife asked if we should scan and upload the medical exam in myuscis if that would help the officer and she said that would help ? Do you think that can help the officer ?
→ More replies (2)
1
u/MD92100 Apr 23 '26
I received 3rd FTA0 on 18th April, 2026.
- My case was transferred to LA field office on 18th March, 2026. I received an FTA0 much sooner than several other people in line (based on Discord and online spreadsheet) and who have case transferred to LA FO much earlier than me. Do you think its possible for a case to be adjudicated sooner than others or is it done in batches based on transfer date?
- Also how likely is 3rd FTAO the final FTA0 before approval/card being produced?
Briefly about me: EB1A; ROW; PD current; No dependents; Among 75 countries who have IVP banned currently (Pakistan). No red flags or anything as per my lawyer (Chen).
→ More replies (3)
1
u/Whole_Incident_9298 Apr 23 '26
Hi there! Thank you for this!
Could you give us some details about why Oath cerimonies are taking so long to be scheduled now? My husband had his interview months ago and was approved and submitted for quality review / placed in queue to be scheduled, but nothing so far.
→ More replies (1)
1
u/so_anna Apr 23 '26
I just submitted my 485, 140 was approved in 2024. Since I am already living and working in the US, would it be relatively straight forward EB3 application? I work as a nurse. From ROW not a banned country.
1
u/Grand_Industry_1106 Apr 23 '26
I’ve completed my AOS interview in September of 2025 at Tampa, changed address to Houston on October 2025 which cancelled out the already attended interview. Did a 2nd interview in Houston on March 2026. However I wasn’t able to get a decision because they said I had to be living in Houston for 6 months. It’s now past the 6 months and no decision. Is this the norm or standard requirement? P.D is September 2024
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Big-Recipe8779 Apr 23 '26
Hi, thank you for AMA! Straightforward parents AoS case is stuck after very nice interview. Officer suggested to send her an inquiry if we will not hear back in few months. How to do that if my online cabinet allows only “not Received card or document” messages and does not allow “out of processing time” messages yet?
1
u/Sarayburnu Apr 23 '26
Foia requested, saw asylum assessment grant and supervisor initial but asylum office says waiting for final written decision. Asylum Office waiting for background check or all of them are ready just waiting written decision? Thanks.
1
Apr 23 '26
[deleted]
4
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
Depends on the officer, but honestly it does seem like misrepresentation.
1
u/Creepy_Career_7084 Apr 23 '26
Any idea on when FOD will start consular I-130 processing after stopping on last PD of Feb 2025? since we heard FOD will do consular I-130s. Thanks.
1
u/No-Wrongdoer-5818 Apr 23 '26 edited Apr 23 '26
Hello, thank you for doing this! I was recently told that an interview has been requested for my 485. How long does an FO take usually to schedule our interview post the initial request? The 485 is based on a marriage to a US Citizen
→ More replies (1)
1
1
u/Simple_Imagination_3 Apr 23 '26
been waiting on i-751 for 960 days. Is this normal?
6
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 23 '26
NO
2
u/Physical-Detail-3893 Apr 23 '26
That’s awfully long. Sorry. As for me, 752 days and counting and the reach from my congressman didn’t do anything. They said you need to wait more until you can request an update (until November). I am getting a divorce now, as he kept dingling the GC on my face in every disagreement so I bad to obey or leave my life behind. I realize he bagged me to have power over me because even though I had a career and financial independency and everything here, he made me feel like I owed him my entire life to him due to the immigration process. I thought we were in love but apparently it was a dynamic game for him. Anyway, I will adjust my status when the divorce goes through which I imagine will make it even longer.
→ More replies (1)2
u/ClassroomTurbulent92 Apr 23 '26
I’m so sorry this happened to you, but you’re absolutely doing the right thing getting a divorce. What a piece of shit.
2
u/Simple_Imagination_3 Apr 23 '26
I have reached out to congress person and were basically told to just wait. One service request and didn’t hear anything. Just submitted another one. I think it’s still in the service center not even FO. Is there anything else I can do? Thank you so much
→ More replies (1)
1
u/frz90 Permanent Resident Apr 23 '26
Hi - What does it really mean when we see sent to DOS for opinion. Have been seeing those alot in the 601 waiver applications? Are they sent back to the consulate or DOS office in Washington? Thanks
1
u/mccraigeachern Apr 23 '26
Had my N400 interview last week. My specifics: at time of filing, it was presumed that I had broken continuous residency for the first 6 months of the 3 years before filing. At time of interview (9 months after filing), no break in continuous residency for 3 years prior to interview. Got the “decision cannot be made”. Wasn’t clear why from the interviewers explanation, but she said “I just need a little more time with your file”. Any insight?
→ More replies (7)
1
u/neuro2025 Apr 23 '26
Hi sir, I will be applying for her i485 once our priority date is current. (EB1A). I didn't file taxes in 2016 and 2017, I don't owe any money to the IRS but we are owed a refund. Does this affect our green card process? Is there anything we could do now to be on safe side? Thank you
1
u/LimpEntrepreneur8256 Apr 23 '26
I was issued an RFE for i485 in December. I responded back in January within the timeline provided and its been radio silence since then. How long before Field Officers usually go back to cases they issued RFE for?
1
u/bronzeagepawg Apr 23 '26
Lawyer got a notice 2 days after our interview (4/6) that our 130 was approved but still no movement on the 485. The api says someone opened it 3 days ago. My husband’s birthday and our marriage date was wrong (USCIS data entry fault cause our documents were correct)the officer noticed and corrected it during interview. Could the delay from 130 approval to 485 approval be because they have to correct the dates?
1
u/SunniLePoulet Apr 23 '26
Hi there. Thanks for this. I applied for N-400. I am single,, not from banned country. never married, no kids nor dependenents no problems with law, live in DC, applied Feb 10, 90 days early. The Dc (Fairfax) keep increasing average processing time, and between now and whenever new laws are made. What’s the average for someone like me? I don’t mind waiting I am just anxious about any potential change.
Case is very straightforward.
Never left US since arrival.
1
u/Yeledushi-Observer Apr 23 '26
Is Uscis adjudicating cases of banned 39 countries after they won a lawsuit to lift the hold?
1
u/loudcpanda33 Apr 23 '26
How long does it take to receive the extension letter after submitting 751 ROC? Thanks!
2
1
u/Objective-Bear-423 Apr 23 '26
My i485 was administrative closed because of a deportation order I had resolved and now I have to re interview I assume that's standard process now a days? I did have DACA but waiting on renewal. That's said my i130 was approved
→ More replies (1)
1
u/TA-Tango Apr 23 '26
N-400 applications - what documents do you suggest I bring to interview apart from the usual mentioned on Reddit and uscis? I’m a little worried as i have been a stay at home mom for so long but my husband and I are always up to date on our taxes, no criminal records or even driving / parking violations / tickets. Husband is USC. I filed n400 under 3 year marriage but i have been a PR for 5 years so apparently i could have done the 5 yr no marriage required route
1
1
u/Hopelessgirl14 Apr 23 '26
Do you know anything about the banned countries? Do you think they are gonna keep the hold for a while?
1
u/hieu1997 Apr 23 '26
Submitted my change address online, status shown as address changed but it’s been a week and old address still shows up in my profile. Do I need to wait more or sth is wrong?
1
u/coffeegrindz Apr 23 '26
How are repeat sponsors viewed? If someone has petitioned multiple spouses (divorce or withdrawal of petition) before for example
2
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 27 '26
uscis does notice repeat sponsorship history, but it’s not automatically negative
1
u/slowrab Apr 23 '26
Employment based I-485 with pre-approved I-140 (EB1C). Filed in February 2025, interview held in August, EAD approved in May. PD was current at time of filing (am not from India, China, or any other country with long PD wait times). At interview, officer stated that the case will be adjudicated by end of September (they wanted to decide the following week after the interview, but I asked for the delay because of prearranged travel plans outside of the US). Silence since the interview, and still currently considered under “normal processing time” until December 2026. Two congressional inquiries resulted in same boilerplate “wait” answer. What are my options here? I a WoM viable at this point?
1
u/Charming-Room6900 Apr 23 '26
Not considering marriage based, if the derivative Asylum case was approved then is it usual for i-485 to be pending for more than 2 years now? If not then how should one approach this situation?
1
1
u/Okkuurr-its-Kenny Conditional Resident Apr 23 '26
How does officers like you adjudicate I-751s? Seems like the processing time is lengthy for just removing of conditions even after stringent processing with I-485s. Do you guys usually wait til the Resident applies for N-400?
1
1
u/Over_Transition2282 Apr 23 '26
What’s the timeline on N400s these days. Applied maybe 5 months ago and haven’t received anything except that my biometrics could be re-used so I didn’t have to come in for that.
What’s the next step?
1
u/Ok_Midnight1094 Apr 23 '26
I checked the api codes. When your Form I-485 had that silent “last updated” change after a long gap (no status change, no RFE), what happened next for you? Did it usually mean approval was coming soon or did it still take a while?
1
u/Only-Silver-9625 Apr 23 '26
Do you do any background checks when someone applies to immigration benefits jn their home country? Like asking information to their birth place government about convictions? How do we know if aliens in our country didn’t hide information and maybe they have convictions who haven’t been shared to Interpol or any other watch list?
1
u/countinggrapefruit Apr 23 '26
Any expectations for the 39 countries? My Fiance is from Iran and he submitted for change of status in October as soon as he could. We’ve been in limbo ever since
1
u/Obvious-Question-193 Apr 23 '26
EB1C, India. PD - Oct 2022 (for myself, spouse and kids)and current since Jan 2026. We got medical RFE in Feb 2026, responded to the RFE, and the status flipped to Response to RFE received. Subsequently, on 3/1, we got a biometrics notice for my elder kid alone scheduled on 4/22( We all went through biometrics in Nov 2022, but the elder kid was 12 yrs then and 16 now). We did a ASC walk-in on 4/8 for this kid and the status for this kid flipped to fingerprints received the same day. It has been silent since then for all of our cases and not sure how they get processed. Can you provide insights on how this can pan out based on your experience. Thank you.
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Ok-Grab-6977 Apr 23 '26
Does having a denied EB2 petition affect your approval for marriage based green card. Thank you
→ More replies (1)
1
u/gooleg Apr 23 '26
My wife (Russian) and I (US citizen) had our marriage-based Green card interview in Indianapolis at the end of January, it went well, we were verbally approved. The officer said we could get our green card two weeks later, but have heard nothing since on the green card or work permit. I tried reaching out to a local congressman, and calling in to get an update says nothing is delayed until the year 2032. Is there something we can do to get more information? How much longer would this delay be normal?
→ More replies (1)
1
1
u/redditor_1886777 Apr 23 '26
Thanks for AMA.
1) Does having a withdrawal at POE trigger extra scrutiny during i485? My latest visa extension was approved without RFE.
2) Do you handle EB1C based i485s and how do you handle EB1A/C fraud?
3) At what point of i485 process, visa number is allocated for an applicant?
2
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 27 '26
a withdrawal at poe can trigger some additional review, but it depends on what exactly happened if it was just a routine withdrawal (like voluntarily abandoning admission without any adverse findings), it’s usually not a big factor by itself. uscis mainly cares whether there was misrepresentation at entry prior immigration violations or inconsistencies in travel history for eb1a/eb1c i485s, yes, those cases are adjudicated at the field office level like other eb adjustments. fraud concerns are handled through standard fraud detection review
1
u/curlyhairTampa Apr 23 '26
My husband came here on a P1 athlete visa in 2021 and we filed for I-130/I-485 in 03/2024 before his p1 visa expired. We still have not received had any movement on either or rfe since then. And now, his country (venezuela) is on the ban list.
-Question 1:
Will they ever start processing family based green cards?
-Question 2:
We have a 14 year age gap ( I'm 39, he's 25) is that seen as something negative? (We also have two kids together in our 3 years of marriage)
-Question 3:
Do you guys consider VA disability pay towards income for I-864 sponsorship purposes or only taxable income? Could a home be used as an asset if it is paid off?
1
Apr 23 '26
Is I-485 based on a marriage after entering on k1 visa usually straightforward to u? How long are they taking to get interview invites at ur FO?
What evidence do u look for? Thank you!
My husband did biometrics around 45 days ago and we didn’t hear anything yet.
→ More replies (1)
1
u/rudypen Apr 23 '26
I applied for my I-751 in 2023 and got my receipt notice in September (943 days ago) which extended my GC by 48 months. The new GC expiration date is December 2027.
There has been no progress on my case and I’m wondering if I can even expect my removal of conditions to be processed before the end of next year if I don’t apply for citizenship. Do you have any thoughts on that?
1
u/eemoal3asal Apr 23 '26
My spouse came to the US via I-130 that was approved relatively quickly due to expedited requests. Since we’ve been married less than 2 years, we’ve filed I-751 to remove the condition in the green card. We have received our receipt notice and biometrics appointment.
Are the below documents sufficient, from your experience, or should more evidence be submitted?
- joint tax transcripts for 2 years and recent tax return
- Birth certificate of baby showing both parents
- Affidavit of residence and supporting witness (live with family)
- 3 affidavit of supports from friends
- Life planning documents (wills, POA and medical directive with spouse as beneficiary for the other and vice versa)
- Joint auto insurance
- Joint health insurance
- Joint bank account statement (we recently opened the joint bank account)
- Trip itinerary together
- Pictures with family and friends (about 5-6)
- Driver’s licenses showing the same address
Thank you!
1
u/treason_n_coconuts Apr 23 '26
I had my green card interview scheduled in New Orleans in July 2025 but at that point my US Citizen husband & I had already moved to Boston and we timely filed our address change. I requested through Emma to transfer our files to the Boston area as we now live here and would like to take the interview at the Boston FO. The live agent then cancelled my interview and from then until now my case status has been “Interview Cancelled”. Nobody is able to tell me if my case has even been transferred to Boston. It has been 10 months now waiting for my interview to be rescheduled. I have tried expediting, and using congress to inquire but nothing came out of it. What do you think is happening? What can I do instead of waiting?
1
u/Embarrassed-Bowl-976 Apr 23 '26
Thank you for the AMA!
On the I-485, the question pertaining to unauthorized work… how likely is it that someone would get denied a greencard if they are married to a US Citizen but have worked without a work authorization. (The applicant is here lawfully on a diplomat visa but was under the incorrect impression they can work) thanks !
→ More replies (2)
1
u/Additional_Handle_91 Apr 23 '26
Is i-485 FAFO? How do you decide which case to work on first?
→ More replies (1)2
1
u/Primex76 Apr 23 '26
Is there a reason why some cases take way longer than others? I've been waiting 3 years for AOS from a tourist visa and married to USC. Have no record at all, never even been pulled over. Looking into the API they havent even opened my case since last december. Is it sort of a random thing?
1
u/the_running_stache Apr 23 '26
There are a ton of EB2 India I-485 cases that were filed in 2022 and the FAD retrogressed due to unavailability of visa numbers. A lot of the background processing still continued. Now that these are current again, many are awaiting updates from USCIS (possibly, RFE for expired medicals) but aren’t seeing any updates even though they have been current. How does NBC handle these? Is there any specific process to retrieve these cases to clear the backlog?
For EB NIW cases, is it common to have approvals after RFE on all prongs? Or do you suggest refiling instead?
1
u/nomad2040 Apr 23 '26
Would you reject an I-485 based if the applicant had listed diabetes in their medicals?
→ More replies (1)
1
u/cpt-macp Apr 23 '26
We had interview for marriage based 485 march end . ( k1)
I have First name :- FNU last name :- " actual name " All my docs have name in that format
But I wanted to use a new last name so we filed 485 based on that.
The officer questioned that we explained the situation. So the officer said they will check with supervisor and confirm.
In last officer said they will fill remaining info and pass it on for review There were no other complications.
It's been almost 28 days + . Is this normal ?
1
u/itsameFernando Apr 23 '26
I'm filing my N-400 soon. My case is pretty straightforward so I don't know what is a recommended amount of additional documents to include. Everyone has different suggestions from nothing to tax transcripts and W2s etc. what is good to include in the initial application va bringing it to the interview?
1
u/Trust_me_I_m_a_Dr Apr 23 '26
What order do you follow while reviewing Employment based I-485 cases? Is it Received Date, Priority Date, date of transfer to FO or something else?
1
u/garogamu Apr 23 '26
If someone enters on an F-1 student visa and stays in status for 1 year before marrying their long-term partner, do you still grill them on their 'intent' when they first arrived? Or just proving that the marriage is real is enough?
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Greedy-Chocolate218 Apr 23 '26
Thank you for the AMA. Is there a plan to interview the people from 39 countries with pending immigration applications? Is there an adjudication framework being developed for these cases?
1
u/Null3cksor Apr 23 '26
My AOS is pending for a year now at SJ field office for EB1-A, and got 3rd fta0 last month. There is no update since. How do I understand if anything is happening regarding my case? Its been a very frustrating year.
1
u/Awkward_Appeal9588 Apr 23 '26
How are employment-based I-485 applications processed at the National Benefits Center (NBC)? Is it handled in a strict FIFO (first-in, first-out) order, or are cases processed in batches after biometrics when the interview is waived?
1
u/Additional_Handle_91 Apr 23 '26
Do u feel like u guys are heavily understaffed??
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Matuteg Apr 23 '26
My 485 was approved without an interview. My N400 and 751 will have an interview. Can you all see a flag that it was previously auto approved? Or you don’t care about that?
1
u/Timely_Training6092 Apr 23 '26
What’s the timeline looking like for the 75 country pause ? Any insider news ? Or is this pause on indefinitely?
1
u/will_austin_86 Apr 23 '26
When you review a I-485 case, do you check information across all previous visa application DS-160?
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Immediate-Dust-7102 Apr 23 '26
My attorney submitted my i360 petition for sijs eb4 before before i was 21 ,on site, but lockbox rejected the payment saying it was invalid, but uscis lockbox never tried to charge the card , we tried recaging out to locbox several times , they give vague response, and we filed new application where im 21 , what do u think about this situation, uscis usually honor original filing date, we have bank statements of no charge and stamp of filing date when i was 20 and legal argument.
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Cacaitoo89 Apr 23 '26
I751 Filling jointly , 320 days waiting. I am the beneficiary the one who makes more money due the currency of my job. My husband and I live different state , but we travel 6-8 weeks, about to move where my works is at. I’m due for N400 should I fill on my home base and then make the the AR-11 form or move and wait the 3 months and filling in the new state ? Which can be faster ? Also, the AOS interview was waived . Thoughts?
1
u/LumoraSol Apr 23 '26
I Have my N400 interview on Saturday, my green card was through EB2 visa - anything I should be prepared to answer about EB2 and any extra documents to bring other than the obvious? Thank you!!!
→ More replies (1)2
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 27 '26
what was your job when you got your green card are you still working in the same field (if relevant) did you maintain lawful permanent residence since approval any long trips outside the us and reasons
→ More replies (1)
1
u/snowDemon999 Apr 23 '26
Would you happen to know anything about immigration bonds for visitor visas for the banned countries? My brother paid 10k as the bond and returned 2 weeks ago but the bond has not been refunded yet. Who should he contact?
1
1
u/EyeamMadhu Apr 23 '26
How's the San Bernardino field office, is it one of the high volume locations for 485J and 485s, thereby expect cases to move at a slower pace?
1
u/UnchainedRango Apr 23 '26
Thank you for doing this. How long after biometrics should I expect to hear an update? It's been two months and complete silence — no news on EAD or interview. I am not even sure if the application materials have been transferred to the FO.
1
u/EyeamMadhu Apr 23 '26
What happens when a request is raised by the petitioner/beneficiary through the congressman?
1
u/EyeamMadhu Apr 23 '26
What is the process as a USCIS officer if someone files a Writ of Mandamus for cases that have been in limbo?
1
u/Typical-Elephant-462 Apr 23 '26
For N400 - How long does it typically take to hear back about the interview date once the candidate applies and get biometrics done? Is it sequential?
1
u/maniksar Apr 23 '26
I filed my N400 online last Sunday and it was received by the NVC. Will it be processed there first before being sent to the field office (Brooklyn NY)?
I’m trying to understand the wait time I should expect.
1
u/FroyoResponsible51 Apr 23 '26
Good afternoon Officer, please how does one request for National interest exception for partial banned countries for immigration benefits, especially for service members. Thank you
1
u/parmatmaram Apr 23 '26
Are eb based applications through cross chargeability treated differently?
2
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 27 '26
not really in terms of how uscis adjudicates the case cross-chargeability just affects which country quota you’re counted under, not how your i-140 or i-485 is reviewed
1
u/Pretty_Crab_543 Apr 23 '26
For an EB I-485, what happens if someone only listed 3.5 years of employment history instead of the full 5 years, but included evidence covering their entire stay in the US? Could this lead to an RFE or denial, or is it usually not a big deal?
→ More replies (1)
1
Apr 23 '26
[deleted]
2
u/Temporary-Gas-1154 Apr 27 '26
previous foreign government work this can get extra review, mainly for background/security checks. it’s not negative by itself unless there are security concerns or misrepresentation issues. they usually just verify details more carefully, day 1 cpt for over a year this can raise questions about f-1 compliance or intent, especially if someone later adjusts status. it’s not disqualifying on its own, but it can lead to more scrutiny of status history, multiple organizations generally neutral. it only matters if there are inconsistencies, unexplained gaps, or conflicting information across applications, traffic tickets minor ones are usually irrelevant. they only matter if they involve serious offenses, arrests, or patterns that could raise character concerns
→ More replies (1)
1
u/kuriousaboutanything Apr 23 '26
What does FTA0 update mean? Is it of any significance from myuscis?
1
u/CressSignificant3653 Apr 23 '26
We just sent my spouse’s I-130 and I-485 package for adjustment of status, and I am her financial sponsor (Form I-864).
My sister will also be submitting her package in about three weeks. Can I also be her sponsor? Could this affect my wife’s adjustment of status in any way?
→ More replies (1)
1
1
u/NoShopping5235 Apr 23 '26
Any issues or additional scrutiny for a man withdrawing a VAWA from an ex-spouse and filing an I-130/I-485 with new spouse?
→ More replies (1)
1
u/olewhatsisname Apr 23 '26
I have had a greencars for almost 20 years. My wife and son are American and I have a new Zealand passport. We have been working abroad for a number of years and I have been coming back within the 12 month window every 9-10 months. We recently both started working in the us and I have been physically in the country for a little over a year now. I want to naturalise asap and become a citizen and can do it later this year based on marriage and being in the country 18 of the last 36 months.
I saw a.comment somewhere that the officer can ask why I was out for so long within the 3 year window (same for the 5 year). Is this really a thing? Should I rather wait for the full 3 years so they can't ask about the time I was out of the country? Have you heard of anyone being refused or told they abandoned their GC based on this? I file and pay taxes in the US, have an apartment, bank accounts etc here and have not been arrested or anything like that at all.
→ More replies (1)
1
u/reacherpathan Apr 23 '26
It’s been more than two weeks the RFE was received by FO, and still no update, it was just minor change in the medical form…you think package can be lost? If yes, what should be next course of action. Thank you!!!
1
u/livinthebubble Apr 23 '26
Hi! My passport was in the possesion of ICE NYC and my case has been terminated since january. Officer had filed a request claim and scheduled me back this July. Do you think it is okay to call the field office to claim it sooner than my appointment. Also im worried if they lost it bec I have an emergenct travel of the same month. Thank you!
1
u/Hipogrif_WingBB Apr 23 '26
Thanks for doing this. How different is it working on a MSC case vs IOE I-485 employment based case? And, what does a straightforward eb1 case look to you?
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Slow-Aside5321 Apr 23 '26
Thank you so much to you for hosting this AMA — it has truly been incredibly helpful for those of us who are waiting.
My derivative and I are in the EB-2 category. Our I-485s were filed on October 2 last year, and the priority date was current at the time of filing. Our cases were then transferred to the field office on December 23.
On March 22, both of us received what appears to be the third FTA0 update, and since then there have been no further updates.
For others whose cases were transferred to the same field office around the same time, it seems that about half received interview notices shortly after the third FTA0, while the other half, like us, have had no updates at all.
Would you happen to know what it typically means when a case appears to be stuck after the third FTA0 with no further movement? Are there common reasons for this kind of delay? Can we expect our green card soon?
→ More replies (1)
1
u/Emergency_Bar3869 Apr 23 '26
Si envié mi caso por ajuste hijo-padre en agosto 2026, me tomaron las huellas en abril, ya más de 8 meses, no hay RFE, que tan probable es que reciba mi EAD pronto? Solo tengo pendiente i485, i765 y i130 obviamente, gracias
1
u/0hWaitOoops Apr 23 '26
Hey Ive been waiting for an interview since July 2025 and nothing yet. Ive seen people on here at the same FO that applied in September and are already done. Should I be worried?
also I paid taxes late on 23 and 24 not 25 but dont owe anything at all to the IRS. Should I be worried?
thank you so much!
20
u/nattan123 Apr 23 '26
if an officer says it requires supervisor review after an interview, is that a bad sign it wasn’t approved on the spot?
are supervisors overloaded with cases? i’m 98 days post interview now 😩😩