To speed up your immigration process, you must submit a decision-ready immigration application that is 100% accurate. You can request expedited processing if you meet specific USCIS expedite criteria. For certain forms, paying for premium processing is the fastest route. If delays become unreasonable, let an experienced immigration lawyer file a lawsuit in federal court to force a decision.
The U.S. immigration system is backlogged and confusing. A single missing signature can result in months of additional processing time.
Every day of delay is a day you can’t work or feel secure with your family member. The uncertainty creates massive stress. You watch as other immigrant visa applicants receive approvals while your immigration case sits at a service center like the Nebraska Service Center or the Vermont Service Center.
Fortunately, you can eliminate common bottlenecks by being proactive. By staying organized and knowing when to contact immigration lawyers from reputable firms like Hacking Immigration Law, LLC, you can speed up your immigration process.
The fastest way to finish is to start correctly. Many applicants rush to mail their forms, thinking that getting a receipt date is the most important thing. However, a messy application is a slow application.
To ensure success, you must:
Check for completeness. Ensure every single box is filled out. If a question doesn't apply, write "N/A" rather than leaving it blank.
Organize your evidence. Use exhibits and a cover letter. If an officer can find your birth certificate or marriage license in five seconds, they are more likely to process the file quickly.
Certified translations. If your documents are not in English, provide certified translations immediately. Don't wait for them to ask.
Whenever possible, file your forms online through the USCIS portal to enjoy these benefits:
Instant receipt. You get your receipt number immediately.
No mail delays. You don't have to worry about the post office losing your check or your application.
Direct communication. You can upload additional evidence directly to your account if you realize you missed something.
You can ask the government to warrant expedited treatment for your benefit request. USCIS reviews these on a case-by-case basis. To succeed, you must show that you meet the USCIS expedite criteria.
Common reasons to request expedited processing include:
If a person or company will suffer severe financial loss without expedited treatment.
This includes a medical emergency or the need to obtain medical treatment quickly.
When federal agencies or national interest concerns require the applicant's presence.
This often applies to healthcare workers or those providing critical public benefits.
To start, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center or your local USCIS office. You will need to provide a written request and a strong cover letter explaining your situation.
Important Note:
For those outside the United States, your immigrant visa case is handled by the National Visa Center (NVC). If you are facing a backlog, you can submit an expedite request directly to the NVC. If you are a refugee, you may deal with a Resettlement Support Center. An expedite request for an immigrant visa is often granted for humanitarian reasons or when a Child Status Protection Act issue is looming.
If your immigration benefits are stalled, you can contact the Immigration Services Ombudsman. This office helps resolve problems with immigration services.
Additionally, contacting your local congressional representative can sometimes help resolve USCIS errors or get an update on a stalled receipt notice.
The most effective way to speed up your immigration process is to hire an immigration attorney. While you are legally allowed to file on your own, the do-it-yourself approach is often the slowest route.
Here is how an experienced immigration lawyer accelerates your journey:
A good immigration lawyer ensures your supporting documents are organized, and your visa application is decision-ready. This prevents the government from issuing a Request for Evidence (RFE), which can pause your case for 60 to 90 days.
Your immigration lawyer knows which visa category moves the fastest for your specific situation. They can help you timely file to avoid missing crucial windows, such as the Priority Date or deadlines under the Child Status Protection Act.
If your case is stuck, an attorney can request expedited processing on your behalf using professional legal arguments that warrant expedited treatment. They can also communicate more effectively with the USCIS Contact Center or the National Visa Center than an individual can.
When delays become extreme, an experienced immigration attorney from Hacking Immigration Law, LLC can take your case to federal court. They can file a Writ of Mandamus, which asks a judge to order USCIS to make a decision. It doesn't guarantee an approval, but it almost always guarantees an answer. This is often the only way to resolve extreme processing delays.
How long does the average immigration process take?
Processing times vary widely by visa type and service center. A marriage-based green card might take 10–18 months, while naturalization might take 8–12 months. Always check the USCIS "Check Case Processing Times" page for the most current data.
Can I pay extra to speed up my application?
For certain employment-based visas (like the I-129 or I-140), you can pay for Premium Processing. This guarantees a response within 15 to 45 days.
Unfortunately, Premium Processing is not currently available for family-based green cards or asylum cases.
What should I do if my case is outside of normal processing times?
First, submit a "Service Inquiry" online through the USCIS website.
Second, contact the office of your local Congressman or Senator; they have staff dedicated to helping constituents with federal agencies.
If those steps fail, it is time to consult with a lawyer about a Mandamus lawsuit.
Does hiring a lawyer actually make the process faster?
Yes. A lawyer ensures your application is perfect the first time. This prevents RFEs and denials. Furthermore, they know how to hold the government accountable when it moves too slowly.
The immigration process is designed to be a maze. If you feel like you are hitting a brick wall, you don't have to fight the system alone. Immigration lawyers specialize in advancing cases. They understand the frustration of the USCIS black hole.
Whether you are a visa applicant trying to reunite with family or a professional seeking employment authorization, they have the tools to demand action. They can help you file your documents on time, assist with humanitarian parole, and ensure your visa application is perfect. Stop waiting and start acting today.
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