How to check my green card application status

Getting a Green Card is a significant step towards achieving permanent residency in the United States.

Once you’ve submitted your Green Card application, the next is to wait for your application to be processed, during this time, you can keep track of its status.

Checking the status helps you follow up with the processing of your application.

If you have applied for a green card and wish to monitor the processing of your application, this guide will walk you through how you can check your green card application status.

US Green Card Application Status

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) manages Green Card applications, and there are different categories, such as family-sponsored, employment-based, and refugee/asylee.

How to check your green card application status

To check your Green Card application, you can do that online or offline using your receipt number and other identifying details.

How to check your green card status online

To check your application status online, you need your receipt number

Receipt Number

Upon submitting your Green Card application, you will receive a receipt number. This number is unique to you and you need it to track your application status.

Your receipt number consists of 3 letters and 10 numbers, something like this ABC1234567891.

USCIS online case status system

The USCIS has an online portal, the “Check Status Tool,” which allows applicants to track the progress of their cases.

To use this tool, visit the USCIS website by clicking here and enter your receipt number.

The system will provide real-time updates on your application status.

You can also check your application status through phone

How to check your green card application status via phone

If you prefer to check your Green Card application status via phone, the USCIS also has an automated case information hotline.

Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. If you have hearing difficulties or a speech impairment, use TTY at 1-800-767-1833.

When you can, you will be asked to provide the following information:

- USCIS Receipt Number
- A-Number, also known as “Alien Registration Number” (if applicable)
- Your Name
- Birthdate

If you applied outside the United States

Call the NVC at +1-603-334-0700. Refer to the NVC website for the latest hours of operation.

Bear in mind that you may have to wait for up to 30 minutes due to high call volumes.

Before calling, gather the following information:

- NVC Case Number or USCIS Receipt Number
- Your Name
- Birthdate
- Email address
- The name of your sponsoring relative or employer.

You can also opt-in for email and text notifications

To get updates about your application, you can opt-in for email and text notifications through the USCIS website.

Through your contact information, you will receive alerts and updates regarding changes in your application status.

If you are applying from outside the United States, you can also enquire about the status of your application by submitting a question to the NVC using this online form.

Once they receive your question, they will respond through email.

You will need the following information:

Your NVC Case Number or USCIS Receipt Number
Your date of birth
Your name
The name of your sponsoring relative or employer.

How to check your green card application status in person

Dial the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.
If you have hearing issues, please use TTY at 1-800-767-1833.)
Choose the option to connect with a “Tier 1” representative.
If the Tier 1 representative cannot provide the assistance you need, you will be directed to a callback service. This service will place you in a queue to connect with a “Tier 2” representative, who will call you back at a later time.
If the Tier 2 representative is unable to address your concerns, they will guide you in scheduling an in-person appointment at the USCIS field office nearest to you.

USCIS Mobile App

For those on the go, the USCIS has a mobile app available for download.

Similar to the online tool, you can enter your receipt number to check your Green Card application status conveniently from your mobile device.

Your USCIS account

If you haven’t created yours, you need an account. Creating a USCIS online account allows you to manage and track your Green Card application.

This personalized account provides a centralized platform for monitoring the status of multiple applications, if applicable.

Contact USCIS customer service

If you encounter issues or need more personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to contact USCIS Customer Service for support.

Once you call, be prepared to provide your receipt number and any relevant information.

FAQs

How do I know when my green card is approved?

Once your application is approved, you will receive an official approval notice, Form I-797, from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

This document confirms your green card approval.

How long does the green card approval process take?

The processing time varies depending on the type of green card application and the current USCIS workload.

On average, it can take several months to over a year. Check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date processing time estimates.

How long does it take to check green card status?

It takes just a few minutes to check your green card application status. Checking your green card status online through the USCIS website is a quick process. Simply enter your receipt number, and you will receive real-time updates on your application status.

What if my green card status hasn’t changed for a long time?

If there are prolonged delays or your status hasn’t changed for an extended period, you can contact USCIS Customer Service for clarification or guidance.

What is the USCIS receipt number, and where can I find it?

The USCIS receipt number is a unique identifier for your application. It will be provided to you in the official receipt notice (Form I-797) sent to you after submitting your application.

What information do I need to check my green card status by phone?

You need your USCIS Receipt Number, your full name, and your birthdate to check your application status.

Conclusion

If you apply for a green card, the USCIS has various tools and resources through which you can track the status of your application.

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Whether through online portals, hotlines, or mobile apps, any option you find more flexible and convenient, you can use it to monitor your application.