Can You Expedite Your Immigration Application? Here’s What You Need to Know

Imagine submitting your immigration application and waiting months without an update. You check your case status daily, only to see the same message: “Processing.” The uncertainty is overwhelming. Maybe your job is on hold, your family is waiting to reunite, or your legal status is in limbo.

USCIS processing times have become unpredictable. What used to take weeks can now take months or even years. Delays disrupt plans, cause financial stress, and create emotional turmoil.

If you have an urgent need, you may be able to speed things up with an expedite request. However, USCIS expedite criteria are strict, and they won’t grant a request for expedited processing just because you’re frustrated with the delay. You need a solid reason and proper documentation to back it up.

Table of Contents

Understanding USCIS Expedite Requests

How to Submit Expedite Requests

Common Reasons USCIS Expedite Requests Get Denied

Alternative Ways to Speed Up Your Case

Final Thoughts

Understanding USCIS Expedite Requests

What Is an Expedite Request?

An expedite request is a formal request to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) asking them to process your case faster than usual. It’s not a guarantee, but if you meet their criteria, it could shave months off your wait time. However, getting an approval is not easy. You need to present a compelling reason backed by strong evidence.

Who Qualifies for an Expedite Request?

USCIS considers processing expedite requests on a case-by-case basis. To qualify with USCIS expedite request, you must meet at least one of these criteria:

• Severe Financial Loss – If waiting longer could cause extreme financial hardship to you or your employer. This includes losing a critical business deal, inability to meet payroll obligations or other significant financial setbacks.
• Emergencies or Urgent Humanitarian Situations – Situations like critical medical treatment, life-threatening conditions, natural disasters, or immediate danger to personal safety. Supporting documents such as medical records or emergency relief verification are essential.
• Nonprofit Organization Requests – If a nonprofit is aiding the U.S. government and needs urgent processing to carry out its mission. Examples include organizations providing disaster relief, humanitarian parole, or refugee assistance.
• U.S. Government Interests – Cases related to public safety, national security, or other government interests. Requests from federal agencies are often prioritized.
• Clear USCIS Error – If USCIS made a mistake causing unnecessary delays, such as misplacing documents, issuing incorrect notices, or failing to process biometrics in a timely manner.

Even if you believe you meet one of these criteria, approval is not automatic. USCIS requires thorough supporting documentation and will scrutinize the validity of your claim before making a decision.

How to Submit Expedite Requests

Step 1: Contact USCIS Customer Service

Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. Explain your situation and request expedited processing. The agent will review your case and determine if you meet the basic criteria. Be prepared to answer questions about your situation, as they may ask for clarification or additional documentation.

Step 2: Provide Supporting Evidence

If USCIS agrees to review your expedite request, you’ll need to submit documentation proving why you qualify. This could include:

• A letter from your employer showing financial harm, such as lost business opportunities or potential layoffs.
• Obtain medical treatment records if it’s a health emergency, with doctor’s notes explaining the urgency of your case.
• Government letters proving your case are in the public interest or national security, such as law enforcement support or security concerns.
• Any other official documents supporting your claim, including affidavits, contracts, or travel-related requests.
• Proof of an urgent need to obtain employment authorization, such as an offer letter stating a critical requirement for your employment authorization document.

Make sure your documents are well-organized and clearly labeled to avoid delays in processing.

Step 3: Wait for a Decision

Once you submit the request, USCIS will review it and respond. Processing times for expedite requests related to criteria vary, but you can expect within a few weeks. In some cases, USCIS may ask for additional evidence or clarification, so keep an eye on your email and online account for updates. If your request is approved, your case will move to the front of the processing queue, significantly reducing wait times.

Common Reasons USCIS Expedite Requests Get Denied

Not all USCIS expedite requests are approved. In fact, most are denied due to:

• Lack of Strong Evidence – You must provide clear, documented proof of your urgency.
• Not Meeting Criteria – Simply wanting a faster decision is not enough.
• Submitting Multiple Requests – Flooding USCIS with requests can backfire.

If your expedite request is denied, you’ll need to wait for standard processing unless other options apply.

Alternative Ways to Speed Up Your Case

If an expedite request isn’t approved, don’t lose hope. Here are other strategies to consider:

1. Upgrade to Premium Processing (If Available)

Some USCIS applications, like certain work visas, offer expedited processing for an extra fee. This guarantees a response within 15-45 days. While costly, it’s one of the fastest ways to move your application forward without waiting in the regular processing queue.

2. Contact Your Local Congress Representative

Your U.S. Senator or House Representative may be able to intervene. While they can’t guarantee approval, their inquiry can sometimes push your case forward. A congressional office inquiry signals urgency to USCIS, which may result in quicker processing. Many applicants have seen their cases move faster after congressional involvement.

3. Check for USCIS Errors

If you believe USCIS made a mistake, submit an inquiry through your USCIS online account or call their customer service. Errors like lost documents, incorrect notices, or misfiled applications can cause unnecessary delays. Fixing these mistakes promptly can save you months of waiting.

4. Schedule an InfoPass Appointment

In rare cases, you might be able to meet with a USCIS officer in person by scheduling an InfoPass appointment at your local field office. This is especially useful for urgent cases requiring clarification or missing documents. However, availability is limited, so check regularly for appointment slots.

Final Thoughts

While waiting for USCIS can be frustrating, knowing your options can help ease the process. If you have an urgent situation, you can expedite your immigration application, but ensure you have strong supporting documents. If that doesn’t work, explore alternative options like premium processing or congressional intervention.

At the end of the day, staying proactive is your best strategy for navigating USCIS delays.