What Happens Immediately After Biometrics?
USCIS transmits your fingerprints to the FBI for background checks. The FBI searches criminal databases and returns results to USCIS. This process typically takes several weeks but can extend longer for common names or complex histories.
Background check completion is a prerequisite for case adjudication. Even if your case is otherwise ready, USCIS cannot approve it until background checks clear. Some applicants experience delays at this stage if results take longer than average.
You will not receive direct notification when background checks complete. The USCIS case status may update to indicate the case is ready for review, or you may simply progress to the next stage without explicit notification.
How Long Do Background Checks Take?
Most background checks complete within one to three months. However, there is significant variation. Some clear in weeks, while others take six months or longer.
Name-based checks can delay processing if your name generates multiple potential matches in FBI databases. Common names, names similar to individuals in the database, and certain national origins may trigger extended review.
If your background check appears stuck, you have limited options. After significant delay, some applicants contact their congressional representative for inquiry assistance. However, there is no guaranteed way to accelerate background checks.
How Does USCIS Decide Whether to Schedule an Interview?
USCIS policy determines whether cases require interviews or can be adjudicated without them. The USCIS Policy Manual provides guidance, but decisions also depend on current agency policy and individual case factors.
Family-based adjustment cases typically require interviews. Marriage-based cases, parent-child cases, and other family petitions generally involve field office interviews to verify the relationship.
Employment-based cases may be interview-waived under certain conditions. USCIS has discretion to waive interviews for employment-based applicants, particularly those with straightforward cases and prior immigration history demonstrating compliance.
What Factors Affect Interview Decisions?
Prior immigration history influences interview likelihood. Applicants with long U.S. presence, prior approved petitions, and clean immigration records are more likely to receive interview waivers.
Case complexity affects interview decisions. Cases with potential issues, unusual circumstances, or concerns identified during review are more likely to require interviews.
Current USCIS policy and field office capacity also matter. Interview waiver policies change over time, and field office backlogs influence how many cases receive waivers.
What Happens in the Adjudication Queue?
After background checks clear, your case enters the adjudication queue. An officer will eventually review your application, supporting evidence, and any relevant records.
Queue position depends on multiple factors including receipt date, case type, and processing priorities. USCIS does not process cases strictly by receipt order—various factors affect which cases are adjudicated when.
During this waiting period, your case status typically remains static. Updates occur when USCIS takes action such as scheduling an interview, requesting evidence, or making a decision.
How Long Is the Adjudication Wait?
Adjudication timing varies enormously. Some cases are decided within months of biometrics. Others wait over a year in the queue.
Check USCIS processing times for estimates specific to your form type and processing office. These estimates are based on how long cases are actually taking, though individual cases can fall outside the estimated range.
Employment-based cases processed by service centers and family-based cases processed by field offices have different processing times. Identify which office handles your case type to find relevant estimates.
What Should You Do While Waiting?
Monitor your case status through your USCIS online account. Status updates indicate when USCIS takes action on your case. Check periodically but do not expect frequent updates during normal processing.
Maintain your eligibility for the green card category you applied under. For employment-based cases, this typically means maintaining your employment. For family-based cases, maintain the qualifying relationship.
Keep your address current with USCIS. File Form AR-11 if you move and update your address in your USCIS account. Missing interview notices or decisions due to address issues creates serious problems.
What If Your Circumstances Change?
Notify USCIS of significant changes that affect your case. Job changes for employment-based applicants, relationship changes for family-based applicants, and other material changes may require notification or additional filings.
Consult an immigration attorney if you are unsure whether a change affects your case. Some changes require amended applications, additional evidence, or other action.
Do not assume changes will be overlooked. USCIS reviews your circumstances at adjudication, and undisclosed changes can cause denials or accusations of misrepresentation.
What Are Requests for Evidence?
USCIS may issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs) at any point during processing. RFEs ask for additional documentation to address questions or concerns about your case.
Respond to RFEs completely and by the deadline. Missing the deadline or providing incomplete responses can result in denial. Take RFEs seriously and consider consulting an attorney if the requests are complex.
According to USCIS guidance, responses should directly address each item requested and provide clear, organized documentation.
Common RFE Topics for I-485
Employment-based RFEs often address job continuation, ability to pay, or qualification documentation. Evidence that your employment remains valid and that you still qualify for the underlying petition is commonly requested.
Family-based RFEs may address relationship bona fides, financial support, or documentation gaps. Marriage-based cases commonly receive RFEs requesting additional evidence of genuine relationship.
General RFEs may address background issues, immigration history, or documentation deficiencies. Review requests carefully and provide complete, directly responsive information.
