A Expedite in immigration context refers to speed up the application progress so that it can process faster than the normal case processing time. Applicants may request expedited processing of their applications with USCIS after a receipt number is assigned when special condition apply to them. USCIS will consider all the requests on a case-by-base basis.
How to make an expedite request?
Once you have receive your NOA1 with a case number (receipt number), you can contact USCIS for a expedite request. USCIS contact center accepts expedite request by phone calls at 1-800-375-5283. Your requests will be forwarded to the office which has jurisdiction over your application or petition. You might asked to provide documentation to support your reason of expedite. If you are applying immigration benefit outside of the U.S., your expedite request can be submitted with a written request directly to the USCIS office. You may also submit a expedite request with a appeal. However, USCIS has the sole discretion to decide whether to grant or deny your request.
USCIS only consider an expedite request if your situation meets one or more of the following criteria:
- Urgent humanitarian reasons
- Clear USCIS error
- Compelling U.S. government interests
- Severe financial loss to a company or person when the application if for employment authorization or student status
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