Latest USCIS Processing Times – FY 2025

USCIS Processing Times in 2025: Snapshot

Despite the slowdown in processing times for some applications, USCIS continues to maintain relatively quick processing, especially for applications that were delayed during the pandemic. Below is a quick reference guide to the median processing times for key immigration forms as of December 2024:

Important Updates:

• December 12, 2024: Wait times for receipt notices processed by USCIS Lockbox have returned to normal, with cases that do not require additional review processed within 3 business days and those needing extra review processed within 15 days.
• Fiancé Visa Processing: Wait time for the fiancé visa petition (Form I-129F) has decreased significantly, offering an expedited path for individuals seeking to bring their fiancés to the U.S.
• Citizenship Applications: The N-400, which allows individuals to apply for U.S. citizenship, now has the fastest processing time since 2016.

Understanding USCIS and DOL Processing Times

Processing times for USCIS applications depend on several factors, including the type of application, the specific agency involved, the location of processing, and the preference category (for employment-based petitions). Here are some key elements that can affect your processing times:

• Type of Application: Each immigration form has a unique processing timeline. For example, Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) generally takes much longer for green card holders (35 months) compared to U.S. citizens (14.3 months).
• Agency Involved: While USCIS handles most immigration forms, the Department of Labor (DOL) is responsible for processing PERM Labor Certifications (Form ETA-9089), which often take longer.
• Location of Processing: Some USCIS service centers may process cases faster than others, depending on workload and staffing.
• Premium Processing: Certain employment-based petitions, such as Form I-140 and I-129, are eligible for premium processing, which expedites the review process for an additional fee.

How to Check USCIS Processing Times?

To get an estimate of your application’s processing time, follow these steps:

1. Locate Your USCIS Field Office: Use your zip code to find out which office is handling your case.
2. Use the USCIS Processing Time Tool: Once you know the office handling your application, you can use the Case Processing Time tool on the USCIS website to view the expected processing time for your specific case.
3. Understand the Time Range: The time range displayed includes both the median processing time (which represents the time it took for half of similar cases to be processed) and the time it took for 93% of similar cases.
4. Check for Premium Processing: For eligible employment-based petitions, check if premium processing is available for a quicker decision.
5. Check for PERM Processing Times: For employment-based green cards, check the Department of Labor’s website for the latest PERM processing times.

Checking Your Case Status

To stay updated on your application’s progress, you can check your case status online. Here’s how:

1. Find Your Receipt Number: This is the unique number you received when USCIS acknowledged your application.
2. Visit the USCIS Case Status Page: Enter your receipt number on the USCIS website, and check the status of your application.
3. Complete the Captcha: This step helps ensure the security of your inquiry.

Family-Based Green Cards

For individuals applying for family-based green cards, the I-130 petition is the first step. Processing times for family relationships such as spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens vary:

• CR1 / IR1 (Spouse of U.S. Citizen): Processing time for this category is around 14.3 months if applying from outside the U.S., or 9.3 months if applying from within the U.S.
• F2A (Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident): Processing time for F2A is 35 months.

Employment-Based Immigration

Employment-based immigration is more complex, as it often requires multiple steps. The I-140 petition is for permanent positions, while the I-129 is for temporary workers. Premium processing can help speed up the process.

• I-140 (Immigrant Worker): Processing time for regular I-140 petitions is 7.6 months, while premium processing speeds it up to 0.6 months.
• I-129 (Nonimmigrant Worker): Regular processing takes 3.5 months, while premium processing takes just 12 days.

K-1 Fiancé Visas

The processing time for the fiancé visa petition (Form I-129F) is currently between 4 and 7 months. Additional time is required for consular processing, which is necessary for the final approval and issuance of the K-1 visa.

Naturalization (U.S. Citizenship)

The N-400 application, which allows individuals to apply for U.S. citizenship, has seen significant improvements in processing times. The current median processing time is 5.5 months.

Tracking and Following Up on Delays

If your application is taking longer than expected, you can follow these steps:

1. Check USCIS Processing Times: Compare your case against the normal processing window to determine if it’s delayed.
2. Track Your Case: You can track your case online for updates on its status.
3. File a Case Inquiry: If your application is outside the expected processing time, you can file a Case Inquiry using the e-form available on the USCIS website.

Navigating the USCIS processing times can be complex, but understanding the latest timelines and how to track your case can help you manage expectations. While some application types have experienced slower processing times in 2025, many common immigration forms are still processed relatively quickly, with faster options like premium processing available for certain employment-based petitions.

FAQs

1. What are USCIS processing times?

USCIS processing times refer to the estimated time it takes for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to process various immigration applications and petitions.

2. How can I check my USCIS processing time?

Check your USCIS processing time by visiting the USCIS website and using their “Check Case Processing Times” tool. You’ll need your form type, form category, and the office processing your case.

3. Why are USCIS processing times important?

Processing times are important because they give applicants an idea of how long they might have to wait for a decision on their immigration application or petition.

4. What factors affect USCIS processing times?

Several factors can affect processing times, including the volume of applications received, staffing levels, policy changes, and the complexity of individual cases.

5. How often are USCIS processing times updated?

USCIS updates processing times on their website monthly, using the latest available data.

6. What should I do if my case is outside normal processing times?

If your case is outside normal processing times, you can submit an inquiry to USCIS to check the status of your application or petition.

7. Can processing times vary by USCIS office?

Yes, processing times can vary by USCIS office due to differences in workload, staffing, and other factors.

8. How do I find my USCIS receipt number?

USCIS receipt number can be found on the receipt notice you received after submitting your application or petition. It is also available in your USCIS online account if you filed online.

9. What is the difference between processing times and case status?

Processing times provide an estimate of how long it takes to process a specific form, while case status gives information about the current status of your individual application or petition.

10. Can I expedite my USCIS processing time?

In certain circumstances, you may be able to request expedited processing for your application or petition. USCIS provides guidelines on their website for requesting expedited processing.

11. What is the historical average processing time?

Historical average processing time is the median time it has taken USCIS to process specific forms over a given period, typically reported by fiscal year.

12. How do I read my USCIS receipt notice?

USCIS receipt notice includes important information such as your receipt number, the date your application was received, and the office processing your case. It also provides instructions on how to check your case status.

13. What should I do if I lose my USCIS receipt notice?

If you lose your receipt notice, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center for assistance. They can provide you with your receipt number and other relevant information.

14. How do I know if my case is within normal processing times?

You can compare your receipt date with the processing times listed on the USCIS website for your specific form and office to determine if your case is within normal processing times.

15. What happens if my case is delayed?

If your case is delayed, USCIS may request additional information or documentation. You can also submit an inquiry if your case is outside normal processing times.

16. Are there any tools to help me track my USCIS case?

Yes, USCIS provides several tools on their website, including the “Check Case Status” tool and the “Check Case Processing Times” tool, to help you track your case.

17. Can I contact USCIS for updates on my case?

Yes, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center for updates on your case. Be sure to have your receipt number and other relevant information ready when you call.

18. How do policy changes affect USCIS processing times?

Policy changes can impact processing times by altering the procedures and requirements for processing applications and petitions. These changes can lead to delays or adjustments in processing times.

19. What is the USCIS Contact Center?

The USCIS Contact Center is a resource for applicants and petitioners to get information and assistance with their immigration cases. They can provide updates on case status, answer questions, and help with lost receipt notices.

20. How can I provide feedback on USCIS processing times?

USCIS welcomes feedback on their processing times and other services. You can provide feedback through their website or by contacting the USCIS Contact Center.