- H. Singh
- Dec 18, 2023
- 10 min read
Updated: Jun 26, 2024
'Urgent Humanitarian Reasons USCIS Expedite Request' relates to issues concerning human welfare, with examples such as illness, disability, extreme living conditions, bereavement within the family, a pressing need to travel urgently for medical treatment, and more.
Note that the 'USCIS Expedite Request' submitted based on urgent humanitarian reasons is different from the 'USCIS Premium Processing Service where you have to pay a fee upfront to speed up your visa application and receive the result within a specified number of calendar days.
If your situation qualifies for humanitarian reasons, you might get your application processed faster. There are no specific eligibility criteria to submit a USCIS expedited request; anyone can submit it as long as they have a valid reason.
Additionally, there are no fees for this process. However, one thing to note is that USCIS expedited requests can only be made after receiving the case number.
Table of Contents: Urgent Humanitarian Reasons for USCIS Expedite Request
USCIS Expedite Request vs. Premium Processing
Both, USCIS expedite request and premium processing are options to speed up your visa application. However, it's important to note that USCIS typically does not consider expedited requests for petitions or applications where premium processing service is available (with few exceptions).
USCIS PREMIUM PROCESSING
USCIS premium processing provides faster processing for Form I-539, Form I-129, Form I-140, and Form I-765 (EAD) for a fee that varies between $1685 and $2805.
Form I-907 is used for filing premium processing requests. Refer to this link to see how you can request premium processing.
Form I-129: A premium processing fee of $2,805 applies to Form I-129 requests for E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B, H-3, L (including blanket L-1), O, P, Q, or TN nonimmigrant classification. A premium processing fee of $1,685 is applicable for Form I-129 requests for H-2B or R nonimmigrant classification.
Form I-140: For Form I-140 requests for EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 immigrant visa classification, a premium processing fee of $2,805 is required.
Form I-539: Form I-539 requests seeking a change of status to F-1, F-2, H-4, M-1, M-2, J-1, J-2, and L-2 nonimmigrant status are subject to a premium processing fee of $1,965.
Form I-765: Premium processing of Form I-765 with eligibility category (C)(3)(A), (C)(3)(B), or (C)(3)(C) entails a fee of $1,685.
USCIS Expedite Request Reasons
USCIS Expedite Request Reasons - Apart from emergencies and urgent humanitarian reasons which we will discuss in the next section, USCIS may consider expediting your case based on the following reasons as well:
SEVERE FINANCIAL LOSS TO A COMPANY OR PERSON
This is one of the most common USCIS Expedite Request reasons and chances of getting acceptance are high if you have concrete evidence to prove it. You should have the supporting evidence ready (USCIS may or may not request it).
A company shows that it will face a big money problem if it is in danger of failing, losing an important contract, or needing to let go of its workers.
Losing one's job can be enough to show a significant financial loss for someone, depending on their specific situation. In either case, you have to provide sufficient documents to prove your request. Here are a few sample letters based on financial loss.
Documents like an employment termination notice from the employer, foreclosure notices, letters of request from lenders, etc. would help your request.
To be eligible, USCIS will check how promptly you responded to any requests for evidence or additional information and whether your application was submitted on time. If these aspects are satisfactory, USCIS might consider your case.
COMPELLING US GOVERNMENT INTEREST
If your case is identified as urgent by other government agencies such as the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Labor, National Labor Relations Board, Equal Opportunity Commission, U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, or other public safety or national security interests, then your expedite request has high chances of getting acceptance.
CLEAR USCIS ERROR
If the individual can provide evidence of USCIS's mistake and its impact on their immigration status, USCIS may grant the expedited request to rectify the error and expedite the processing of their visa extension application.
Related: H1B visa to B1/B2 visa
Urgent Humanitarian Reasons Examples
There could be several types of reasons for urgent humanitarian expediting, which may vary from case to case. Examples include, but are not limited to, illness, disability, extreme living conditions, a death in the family, or a critical need to travel to obtain medical treatment in a limited amount of time.
When it comes to expediting requests, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) follows a case-by-case evaluation process. Each request is carefully considered, and in some cases, additional evidence may be required to support the request.
You should have enough evidence to prove two things for the USCIS Expedite Request:
Urgency (time-sensitivity), remember that NOT all humanitarian reasons are time-sensitive, and
The reason itself
It is important to note that USCIS holds the sole authority to decide whether to accommodate an expedited request. Therefore, just because a friend of yours had their expedited request approved, it doesn't mean yours will be approved too. Everyone has a unique situation and needs.
If you are considering a USCIS Expedite Request, be prepared to provide the necessary supporting documents and understand that the final decision rests with USCIS.
You should submit USCIS Expedite Requests only when you have a valid reason. You can also read about the expedited requests on the USCIS website.
MEDICAL EMERGENCY
If the applicant or a family member is facing a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention in a very limited amount of time, then you can submit a USCIS Expedite Request.
It must be supported by documentation like medical bills, medical history, a letter from a doctor, a photo of the injury, etc.
EXAMPLES
Illness: My immediate family members have been diagnosed with a critical illness, and their condition requires my immediate presence to provide necessary care and support during their treatment.
Serious medical condition: A close relative is facing a life-threatening medical condition, and I need to be by their side to assist with medical decisions and provide emotional support.
Urgent surgery: A family member is scheduled for urgent surgery, and I am required to be present to help with their recovery and ensure their well-being during the postoperative period.
Aging parents: My elderly parents, who are U.S. citizens, are facing serious health challenges and need my assistance and care.
DEATH OR FUNERAL
If a close family member has passed away, and your presence is necessary to attend the funeral and provide crucial support to your grieving family, please be prepared to provide proof confirming the need for your immediate presence. Documents like death certificates, newspaper articles, police reports, or public announcements would support your expedited request.
Related: How to apply for H4 EAD?
EXAMPLES
Emergency travel: My immediate family member has passed away, and I need to travel to the United States urgently to attend the funeral and provide support to my grieving family during this difficult time.
Funeral arrangements: A close relative has passed away, and I need to be present in the U.S. to help make necessary funeral arrangements and support my family through the mourning process.
SAFETY CONCERNS
If the applicant or a family member is facing immediate danger, such as domestic violence, war, or persecution.
EXAMPLES
I am a victim of domestic violence and need to leave the country immediately for my safety.
I am a survivor of a recent natural disaster, and my presence is crucial for my family's recovery and rebuilding efforts.
FAMILY SEPARATION
If the applicant or a family member is facing a situation where they may be separated from their family, a USCIS Expedite Request might be submitted.
ECONOMIC HARDSHIP
If the applicant or a family member is facing extreme financial hardship, such as the loss of a job or inability to provide necessities.
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY
If the applicant or a family member has been offered a unique educational opportunity that will expire soon, a USCIS Expedite Request might be submitted.
NATURAL DISASTERS
If the applicant or a family member has been affected by a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, earthquake, or flood.
AGING OUT
If the applicant is a child who is approaching the age of 21 and will age out of their immigration status, a USCIS Expedite Request may be necessary to avoid losing their ability to immigrate.
ADOPTION
If the applicant or a family member is in the process of adopting a child and there is a time-sensitive deadline, it may become necessary to submit a USCIS Expedite Request. Read more.
If the applicant shares custody of a minor child with a U.S. citizen and needs to be present to ensure their well-being and proper care.
USCIS Expedite Request Letter Sample
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Phone Number] [Email]
[USCIS Case Number]
[Date]
Subject: Expedite Request based on Urgent Humanitarian Need
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to request that my application be expedited due to urgent humanitarian circumstances. I am currently in an alarming situation that requires urgent attention, and I hope you can help me process my application as soon as possible.
[Insert brief background about your situation, including details about the urgent humanitarian need that requires expedited processing. Be sure to include specific details that support your request.]
Due to the urgency of my situation, I humbly request that you expedite the processing of my application. I understand that the processing of my application may take time, but I am confident that your office can help me in this difficult time.
I have attached the necessary documents to support my expedited request. Please let me know if you require any additional information to process my request.
Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your time and assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name Printed]
How to Make an Expedite Request with USCIS?
To make an Expedite request with USCIS, follow these steps:
Obtain your receipt number.
Keep your supporting documents, case number, and the reason for the Expedite request handy.
Contact USCIS at 800-375-5283 or chat with Emma, the USCIS virtual assistant.
Make an Expedite request over the call or chat service.
Obtain the Expedite service request number.
Monitor the status of your immigration application, petition, or request.
Receive an email requesting supporting documents (Note: In some cases, USCIS may approve the application without additional documentation).
Submit the required supporting documents (via email).
Await the decision on your Expedite request.
Await the decision on your overall USCIS application.
FAQs on Urgent Humanitarian Reasons for USCIS Expedite Request
How to contact USCIS to make an Expedite request?
To contact USCIS and make an Expedite request, you have the following options:
Phone Call: You can call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833).
Emma (USCIS Virtual Assistant): You can use Emma, the USCIS virtual assistant, available on the USCIS website. You can access Emma's chat service on the top right corner of the USCIS website. Provide your case number and explain the reasons for the Expedite request.
Contact Through an Attorney: If you have an immigration attorney, they can assist you in making the Expedite request on your behalf.
Can I make a USCIS Expedite request before receiving the receipt number?
No, you can only make a USCIS Expedite request after receiving the case number for your original USCIS petition or application.
What's the USCIS Expedite request fee?
The USCIS Expedite request fee is $0; there is no charge for making an Expedite request.
What is the processing time for a USCIS Expedite request
Typically, you will receive the USCIS response within 7 to 10 days via email. While your case status may also reflect the Expedite request, sometimes USCIS does not update the request status, so it's important to keep a watch on your email.
On what basis can I make a USCIS Expedite request?
You can make an Expedite request on the following grounds:
Severe financial loss to a person or company
Urgent humanitarian reasons
Clear USCIS error
Compelling US government interests
Can job loss be considered a reason to make an Expedite request?
Yes, according to USCIS, job loss may be sufficient to establish severe financial loss for an individual, depending on the specific circumstances.
Is there any form to submit a USCIS Expedite request?
No, there is no specific USCIS Expedite request form. You can make a USCIS Expedite request by calling or chatting with Emma.
How to submit the supporting documents for the USCIS Expedite request?
To submit supporting documents for the USCIS Expedite request, USCIS will contact you via email with the necessary details. So, wait for their response after you make Expedite request.
When can't I make a USCIS Expedite request?
Typically, USCIS Expedite requests are available only for applications where premium processing is not an option. If your application is eligible for premium processing, it is recommended to request that service instead of USCIS expedited processing.
Related: How to request premium processing?
What are the documents that can be used to support my USCIS Expedite request?
The documents you can use to support your USCIS Expedite request may vary depending on the nature of your request and the specific circumstances. However, common documents that may be useful include:
Evidence of Severe Financial Loss
Bank statements
Rental agreement
Tax records
Proof of outstanding debts or financial obligations, etc.
Urgent Humanitarian Reasons
Medical records/receipts
Letters from medical professionals
Documentation supporting the urgency of the situation, etc.
Clear USCIS Error
Any USCIS correspondence or notices indicating the error
Clarifying documents demonstrating the correct information
Compelling U.S. Government Interests
Letters of support or recommendation from government agencies
Documents highlighting the importance of the case to the government
Can I request an Expedite request for an H4 EAD?
Yes, you can make an Expedite request for an H4 EAD. Read more.
Does the result of the USCIS Expedite request impact my original application or petition?
If your Expedite request is denied, it means that USCIS has determined that your case does not meet the criteria for expedited processing. Your original application or petition will continue to be processed through the standard timeline, and the denial of the Expedite request does not impact the outcome of your overall case.
Hopefully, this article will help you understand what could be the reasons behind the urgent humanitarian need. Please note that I am not a lawyer and I am only sharing experiences based on people whom I know directly or indirectly who might have gone through a similar situation.
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