What does the USCIS Processing Time and Cases Like Yours tool do?

This tool helps users estimate how long their USCIS case might take based on the form type, category, receipt date, and service center. It also shows real, anonymized cases similar to yours — so you can compare timelines with others who filed the same form. By combining official USCIS data with user-submitted cases, the tool offers a more accurate and personalized view of USCIS processing times.

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How accurate are these USCIS processing times?
USCIS processing times are estimated based on how long it took to complete 80% and 100% of cases over the past 6 months. Overall, it gives a pretty good idea of how long your application might take. While it gives a general estimate of how long a case might take, actual times can vary due to factors like your case complexity, service center workload, premium processing, expedite requests, and RFEs. 

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How often are these processing times updated?

This data is updated every few days; however, significant changes in processing times are typically observed only once or twice per month.

 
How do I speed up USCIS processing time?
You can speed up USCIS processing by using premium processing if it's available for your application type. If premium processing isn't an option, you can apply for an expedite request. However, for expedite requests, you need a strong reason like severe financial loss, urgent humanitarian reasons, or other special circumstances.

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What does “Cases Like Yours” mean in this tool?
It shows anonymized USCIS cases that are similar to yours — based on form type, category, service center, and receipt date — so you can get a better idea of real-world timelines.

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Is USCIS processing time tool free to use?
Yes, the core features are free for everyone. Dataneb built this to help the community. If you find it helpful, you can support us with a small donation.

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Do I need to enter my actual case number to use the tool?
No — entering your case number is optional and voluntary. It helps match your case with similar ones, but you can still use the timeline tool without it.

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Where does the case data come from?
Processing times come from USCIS, and the “Cases Like Yours” section is based on publicly available data and voluntary user submissions.

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Why does the estimated processing time differ from the USCIS website?
USCIS often provides wide time ranges. We try to narrow them down using real case data to give you a more practical and current estimate.

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What is the current I-130 processing time for spouse?
Processing times for I-130 vary depending on whether it’s for a spouse, parent, or sibling, and which USCIS service center is handling your case. Use this tool to select your form and service center for an accurate estimate.

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Why is my USCIS case taking longer than the estimated processing time?
Many factors affect processing speed — workload, RFEs, or missing documents. Our tool provides averages, but each case may vary.

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Can I compare my USCIS case with others like mine?
Yes, just enter your form, receipt date, and service center. You'll see anonymized cases similar to yours and their timelines.

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What’s the average USCIS processing time for a green card application?
Green card forms like I-485 or I-130 typically take several months to over a year. Use the tool to get an estimate based on your specifics. You can also try our green card calculator for detailed processing times.

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Are USCIS processing times the same for all states?
Not necessarily. It depends on the service center your case is assigned to, not your physical location.

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Is this tool affiliated with USCIS?
No, we're an independent community-driven tool built to help people understand USCIS processing times better.

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Can I help improve USCIS processing time estimates on this tool?
Yes absolutely! Submit your case details (anonymously), and you’ll help others get better predictions too.

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What does “Receipt Date” mean in USCIS processing time estimates?
It’s the date USCIS officially receives your application — we use this to calculate the timeline in your results.

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Does changing my address affect USCIS processing times?
Sometimes. A change of address may result in your case being transferred, which can affect your estimated processing time.

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How long should I wait before contacting USCIS about delayed processing times?
You can generally contact USCIS if your case is outside the published time range. Check the inquiry date on the USCIS website or in our tool.

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Does submitting multiple forms together affect USCIS processing time?
Yes. If you file multiple forms (like I-485 with I-765), the processing time may align with the slowest form or depend on USCIS bundling (also called concurrent filing).

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