All Sep 2013 485 APPROVALS & DISCUSSION - report here with details

[yesman]

Guys, I need the forum's advice on something. My priority date became current with the Sep bulletin (PD: Apr 3 2008, Filed for 485 in Jan 2012 and got an EAD/AP). I just changed jobs (3 months ago) and the attorneys with the new company are getting ready to file some paperwork related to AC21. My understanding is the paperwork is completely discretionary. Does filing it at this juncture increase, decrease or doesnt affect my chances of getting greened in the next few months (before EB2I retrogresses). Please HELP!!

[Jun1308]

Gurus,

My PD is Jun 13, 08 .485 applied Jan 2012 and renewing EAD yearly, no RFE till now. I barely made it to this month bulletin.

What are my chances of getting GC or being left out without getting GC in next couple of months.

Will USCIS pick files based on RFE,PD, RD ?

Thanks

[Pedro Gonzales]

Gurus,

My PD is Jun 13, 08 .485 applied Jan 2012 and renewing EAD yearly, no RFE till now. I barely made it to this month bulletin.

What are my chances of getting GC or being left out without getting GC in next couple of months.

Will USCIS pick files based on RFE,PD, RD ?

Thanks

I suspect they'll pick up files that are ready (so no RFE outstanding) and go by PD. Since you have no RFE, you may stand a good chance of getting through. In any case, I think CO had enough time to gather sufficient data to move the dates accurately so there may not be too many people that miss the boat (outside of first time I485 filers). Perhaps only guys that are late responding to RFEs. All the best.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Please add mine to the list
01/03/08 - bathula44



05/14/08 - SeekingGC2013


Congrats on getting current, but please add your names to the list on that thread, following the instructions there.

Here is the link:
http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/201-Database-of-PDs-for-folks-not-current-yet

[mstanfield]

Gurus,
Need your input. So my PD is June 10th, 2008 EB2 and I applied for I-485 in Jan 2012. I never got any RFE. What are the odds that I will get the GC before the PD retrogresses again? At this point GC is just a nice thing to have and don't really care if I get it next FY but just need to know where I stand. Thanks !

[Pedro Gonzales]

Gurus,
Need your input. So my PD is June 10th, 2008 EB2 and I applied for I-485 in Jan 2012. I never got any RFE. What are the odds that I will get the GC before the PD retrogresses again? At this point GC is just a nice thing to have and don't really care if I get it next FY but just need to know where I stand. Thanks !
Your PD is 3 days away from Jun1308 who asked the exact same question that I answered two posts above yours. There's nothing in those 3 days to change my opinion.

[vizcard]

Your PD is 3 days away from Jun1308 who asked the exact same question that I answered two posts above yours. There's nothing in those 3 days to change my opinion.

actually 3 days = 150 cases ... worlds of difference when its that close to the finish line :cool: :p


PS: For those who didn't get it ... I'm kidding!

[vchirakala77]

HI Gurus,

My PD is 04/18/2008 .. I got my EAD/AP in 2012 and renewed it until 2015. When I check my status in egov status site it still shows "Acceptance". Is there anything I need to do or is it normal status.
Please let me know.

- Venkat

[mstanfield]

Pedro,
Thanks for pointing that out and your input as well. It's possible that my post crossed previous posts. OTOH, ever since the bulletin came out I am considering including gori in my dating pool. May be GC does matter after all !

[Rachel]

Hi everybody!

My PD is June 25th, 2008. This time missed the boat! Just wondering if there is any chance this year (till December) or is it that there is not expected action till end of 1Q2014.

Thanks for all your help!

[ramya76]

Good news & Good luck to all who are current in this bulletin including me.

Gurus,
I am current in this bulletin & my PD is 02/08/13. Applied 485 in Jan 2012 and got RFE on 6/14 like all and responded to RFE. I just checked my status in USCIS website, it is showing as 'Request for Evidence Response Review' same from the last 3 weeks. Is there any chance am I going to get GreenCard sooner?

[SeekingGC2013]

Hey All Gurus

Luckily i got current in the Sept VB. I do have a specific question about the processing times for PD's between Jan1'08 - Jun15'08 who already have a EAD/AP.

Would all these applications receive their GC's in the month of Sept. If Oct VB shows dates being retrogressed and GC is not posted before End of Sept - whats the next course of action?

thanks a lot



Pedro,
Thanks for pointing that out and your input as well. It's possible that my post crossed previous posts. OTOH, ever since the bulletin came out I am considering including gori in my dating pool. May be GC does matter after all !

[vizcard]

Hi everybody!

My PD is June 25th, 2008. This time missed the boat! Just wondering if there is any chance this year (till December) or is it that there is not expected action till end of 1Q2014.

Thanks for all your help!

I would be extremely surprised if there was any further movement this calendar year. So my take is no chance :)



Good news & Good luck to all who are current in this bulletin including me.

Gurus,
I am current in this bulletin & my PD is 02/08/13. Applied 485 in Jan 2012 and got RFE on 6/14 like all and responded to RFE. I just checked my status in USCIS website, it is showing as 'Request for Evidence Response Review' same from the last 3 weeks. Is there any chance am I going to get GreenCard sooner?

Welcome! When you "sooner" ... sooner than what? You should get your GC this year.

[vizcard]

Hey All Gurus

Luckily i got current in the Sept VB. I do have a specific question about the processing times for PD's between Jan1'08 - Jun15'08 who already have a EAD/AP.

Would all these applications receive their GC's in the month of Sept. If Oct VB shows dates being retrogressed and GC is not posted before End of Sept - whats the next course of action?

thanks a lot

Theres nothing you can do if you are not current. To preempt that, I would do a SR or reach out to your congressman in the 2nd week of Sept.

[seattlet]

I would be extremely surprised if there was any further movement this calendar year. So my take is no chance :)

if PERM processing slows down further, we are looking at EB2 ROW utilizing only around 3 K of the 9K allocated per quarter. prolonged slowdown of PERM will open
up EB2 I more because CO cannot have USCIS not do anything till end of year. I understand he burnt his hands in 2012 and will be careful, but if EB2 ROW doesnt use their visa numbers
(They will use less than what they use in Aug and Sep if slowdown continues) he has no way but to advance EB2 I

[Spectator]

if PERM processing slows down further, we are looking at EB2 ROW utilizing only around 3 K of the 9K allocated per quarter. prolonged slowdown of PERM will open
up EB2 I more because CO cannot have USCIS not do anything till end of year. I understand he burnt his hands in 2012 and will be careful, but if EB2 ROW doesnt use their visa numbers
(They will use less than what they use in Aug and Sep if slowdown continues) he has no way but to advance EB2 Iseattlet,

I don't think the slowdown in PERM processing seen recently will impact the first few months of the new FY due to the processing time for I-140 / I-485 after the PERM is Certified. The current backlog is more important to the early numbers IMO.

Currently there are a lot of EB2-ROW I-485 pending and a good % have already been pending over 3 months - USCIS appear to have stopped processing them so quickly, possibly as they ramp up EB2-I processing and pre-processing.

That backlog will likely fall into FY2014 and is also likely to be adjudicated in the first few months when the pressure of the year end has subsided. I don't think EB2-ROW approvals will drop initially as much as you think.

Later on, it may be an issue, if DOL don't pick up the pace when sequestration ends. It is painfully slow at present. If it continues it will, as you say, eventually lead to lower EB2-ROW approvals.

My 2 cents anyway.

[Pedro Gonzales]

if PERM processing slows down further, we are looking at EB2 ROW utilizing only around 3 K of the 9K allocated per quarter. prolonged slowdown of PERM will open
up EB2 I more because CO cannot have USCIS not do anything till end of year. I understand he burnt his hands in 2012 and will be careful, but if EB2 ROW doesnt use their visa numbers
(They will use less than what they use in Aug and Sep if slowdown continues) he has no way but to advance EB2 I

The PERM slowdown only temporarily pushes out EB2ROW demand. That pent up demand will surge at a later point in time, I believe, at some point during FY14.

CO doesn't need to give out any minimum number of GCs each quarter, so he isn't under any pressure to give them out. He'll wait until the end of the year and see what the spill over is before spilling over to EB2I.

As to the argument about keeping USCIS busy, remember that EB2ROW is only a small % of the cases the USCIS works on. It is only about 24% of all EB applications which in itself is < 30% of the total applicants, so you're talking about <8% of all applications in any given year. They're going to be busy enough.

[Jun1308]

Thanks Pedro for your reply.


I suspect they'll pick up files that are ready (so no RFE outstanding) and go by PD. Since you have no RFE, you may stand a good chance of getting through. In any case, I think CO had enough time to gather sufficient data to move the dates accurately so there may not be too many people that miss the boat (outside of first time I485 filers). Perhaps only guys that are late responding to RFEs. All the best.

[pavanraj]

Hi,

I am a silent reader on this forum for a long time. Today I wanted to join this premium club and hence registered in this forum. First of all my congratulations to everyone who became current in Sept 2013. Also my appreciation and sincere thanks to all Guru's who are solving puzzles and helping many readers with their Immigration related questions.

I have one question: What will be the best time to contact Congressman for expediting my case. In 2012 I missed the boat as I got an RFE on 03/23. Inspite of my quick reply the dates internally were retrogressed. I do not want to miss my chance. My PD is 05/20/2008. Please advise

[indiani]

Hi,

I am a silent reader on this forum for a long time. Today I wanted to join this premium club and hence registered in this forum. First of all my congratulations to everyone who became current in Sept 2013. Also my appreciation and sincere thanks to all Guru's who are solving puzzles and helping many readers with their Immigration related questions.

I have one question: What will be the best time to contact Congressman for expediting my case. In 2012 I missed the boat as I got an RFE on 03/23. Inspite of my quick reply the dates internally were retrogressed. I do not want to miss my chance. My PD is 05/20/2008. Please advise

call the contact number or email the local congressman where you live and they will give you privacy form and also ask you details of your case like A number, SRC, PD etc, then they will send an email to congressional liaison, I have sent 6 days ago but today when I checked no reply from usics to congressman's office.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Hi Q/Spec/Matt/Viz

Nothing new to add to what viz and Q said, but I wanted to lend my support to their advice. Take the job, get an EVL now, to be ready for an rFE if you get one. Do not file Ac21.

[yawali58]

Hi Gurus,
I am one of them who reads all your analysis, predictions, and guidance and really appreciate all the hard work you guys put in,.

With EB2 priority date of Feb 08-2008 I got current this month. In May 2013 I changed the job after 10 years. My new lawyer had sent the EVL, AC21 and G28 form immediately after job change in May-2013.

I saw online in my case status After Jun 05-2013,
In my case status remained same” Initial review” but the remarks has changed to
“On June 5, 2013, your address was changed relating to the I485, APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS that you filed………….
from
On January 10, 2012, we received this I485 APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS, and mailed you a notice describing how we will process your case…………….
Whereas there is no change in my wife’s case (Dependent) status which is same as original


In Last week of Jun-2-1013 I have electronically changed my home address and Lawyer has also send my home address change notice. (for clarification this is after I saw the above remarks in my case)
My questions are

1: What does this remark mean?

2: What are the chances I will get RFE (Lawyer has pretty much matched my job description mainly saying it is in the job occupation identified in Initial PERM filing, but there is a title change with higher pay).

3 If I get RFE what are chances to get green in next one-two month hoping I will be able to give immediate response. (I assume the date will retrogress again in Oct-2013)

4 : How can I confirm USCIS has correct new residential address( I have electronic copy of address change submission)?


Thank you ones again for doing hard work

[makmohan]

Hello,

I got current in this visa bulletin (eb2 india pd: Apr 2008). Already have ead/ap when dates were current in Jan 2012.

Changed my job and filed AC21 last year. When should I expect the GC? Will there be any EVL RFE?

Mohan

[indiani]

Comments inline.

Hi Gurus,
I am one of them who reads all your analysis, predictions, and guidance and really appreciate all the hard work you guys put in,.

With EB2 priority date of Feb 08-2008 I got current this month. In May 2013 I changed the job after 10 years. My new lawyer had sent the EVL, AC21 and G28 form immediately after job change in May-2013.

I saw online in my case status After Jun 05-2013,
In my case status remained same” Initial review” but the remarks has changed to
“On June 5, 2013, your address was changed relating to the I485, APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS that you filed………….
from
On January 10, 2012, we received this I485 APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS, and mailed you a notice describing how we will process your case…………….
Whereas there is no change in my wife’s case (Dependent) status which is same as original


In Last week of Jun-2-1013 I have electronically changed my home address and Lawyer has also send my home address change notice. (for clarification this is after I saw the above remarks in my case)
My questions are

1: What does this remark mean?

they have updated your file

2: What are the chances I will get RFE (Lawyer has pretty much matched my job description mainly saying it is in the job occupation identified in Initial PERM filing, but there is a title change with higher pay).

unlikely if AC21 letter explained everything

3 If I get RFE what are chances to get green in next one-two month hoping I will be able to give immediate response. (I assume the date will retrogress again in Oct-2013)

it depends on how late you get RFE, if you get in the last 10 days , you might be in tough spot but if AC21 is filed well, unlikely they will issue RFE., by the way for people without AC21 also RFE is a possibility, in other words your chances of RFE is not higher just because you changed job IMO.

4 : How can I confirm USCIS has correct new residential address( I have electronic copy of address change submission)?
Talk to L2 (faster way )or take info pass

[indiani]

Comments inline.
Hello,

I got current in this visa bulletin (eb2 india pd: Apr 2008). Already have ead/ap when dates were current in Jan 2012.

Changed my job and filed AC21 last year. When should I expect the GC?
in sept ( most likely)

Will there be any EVL RFE?
most likely NO

[indiani]

spec,
thanks for editing, from next time I will use different color for the answers so its easy to understand

[yawali58]

Hi Gurus,
I am one of them who reads all your analysis, predictions, and guidance and really appreciate all the hard work you guys put in,.

With EB2 priority date of Feb 08-2008 I got current this month. In May 2013 I changed the job after 10 years. My new lawyer had sent the EVL, AC21 and G28 form immediately after job change in May-2013.

I saw online in my case status After Jun 05-2013,
In my case status remained same” Initial review” but the remarks has changed to
“On June 5, 2013, your address was changed relating to the I485, APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS that you filed………….
from
On January 10, 2012, we received this I485 APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS, and mailed you a notice describing how we will process your case…………….
Whereas there is no change in my wife’s case (Dependent) status which is same as original


In Last week of Jun-2-1013 I have electronically changed my home address and Lawyer has also send my home address change notice. (for clarification this is after I saw the above remarks in my case)
My questions are

1: What does this remark mean?

2: What are the chances I will get RFE (Lawyer has pretty much matched my job description mainly saying it is in the job occupation identified in Initial PERM filing, but there is a title change with higher pay).

3 If I get RFE what are chances to get green in next one-two month hoping I will be able to give immediate response. (I assume the date will retrogress again in Oct-2013)

4 : How can I confirm USCIS has correct new residential address( I have electronic copy of address change submission)?


Thank you ones again for doing hard work

Thanks a lot for the reply

[Tycoon]

Gurus,

I am filing my I-485+I-131+I-765 first time in Sep'13. As per the instructions on these forms, each form requires 2 photographs i.e. 6 photographs in total. But my lawyer is asking for just 2 photographs. He is saying that earlier they used to ask for 6 photographs but not anymore, and now just two photographs are sufficient. Photos for combo-card for EAD/AP will be taken at the time of FP.

I have to travel to India in late Nov and don't want to take any chance regarding EAD/AP. But even if I send 6 photos, lawyer is going to use only 2. So not sure what to do. Can you please weigh in?

[Tycoon]

Can anyone answer my question? Thanks in advance!!

[Pedro Gonzales]

Gurus,

I am filing my I-485+I-131+I-765 first time in Sep'13. As per the instructions on these forms, each form requires 2 photographs i.e. 6 photographs in total. But my lawyer is asking for just 2 photographs. He is saying that earlier they used to ask for 6 photographs but not anymore, and now just two photographs are sufficient. Photos for combo-card for EAD/AP will be taken at the time of FP.

I have to travel to India in late Nov and don't want to take any chance regarding EAD/AP. But even if I send 6 photos, lawyer is going to use only 2. So not sure what to do. Can you please weigh in?
I believe I sent in 4 photos each, but I can't find my records to confirm. Yes, they take your photo when you go in for the interview. In any case, you are highly unlikely to get your GC before dates retrogress so don't freak out about this. You'll have plenty of time to respond to an RFE (for new photographs if required) before next summer when dates move forward again. For what it's worth, I've never heard of anyone getting an RFE for photographs.

[Tycoon]

I believe I sent in 4 photos each, but I can't find my records to confirm. Yes, they take your photo when you go in for the interview. In any case, you are highly unlikely to get your GC before dates retrogress so don't freak out about this. You'll have plenty of time to respond to an RFE (for new photographs if required) before next summer when dates move forward again. For what it's worth, I've never heard of anyone getting an RFE for photographs.

Thanks Pedro for your response. You are correct, for me, there is zero chance of getting GC till al least late summer next year. But my concern is primarily regarding EAD/AP. I have to travel to India in late Nov this year and I don't want any delay in EAD/AP due to photos.

I spoke with my lawyer earlier today and she mentioned that starting this year, she has been attaching just 2 photos in I-485 package. She has not seen any issues/RFEs so far regarding photos because the photographs taken during FP is used in EAD/AP. However, she added that she is OK with attaching 6 photographs if that makes me feel more comfortable!!!

Question: Does this mean that USCIS never issue EAD/AP (for new I-485 filing) without first doing the FP?

[Pedro Gonzales]

Question: Does this mean that USCIS never issue EAD/AP (for new I-485 filing) without first doing the FP?

In the Dec 2011 to Mar 2012 period, there were several people that got their EADs/AP combo card before their FP interview. There was something different in their case, though. Either a shorter duration combo card, or something. You may want to go back to the EAD threads from that time frame to see.

[Maksimus]

I believe I sent in 4 photos each, but I can't find my records to confirm. Yes, they take your photo when you go in for the interview. In any case, you are highly unlikely to get your GC before dates retrogress so don't freak out about this. You'll have plenty of time to respond to an RFE (for new photographs if required) before next summer when dates move forward again. For what it's worth, I've never heard of anyone getting an RFE for photographs.

I remember the original checklist from my lawyer mentioned 6 photographs but when I checked with them they said 2 photos are fine. I believe that's what I gave them and yes, they take your picture during fingerprinting.

FWIW, I can also confirm that when I applied for EAD/AP renewal, I sent in 2 photos for sure. Hope this helps.

[Maksimus]

In the Dec 2011 to Mar 2012 period, there were several people that got their EADs/AP combo card before their FP interview. There was something different in their case, though. Either a shorter duration combo card, or something. You may want to go back to the EAD threads from that time frame to see.

Pedro, I'm one such case having received our EAD/AP combo card before finger printing appointment. The picture on the card was from the photos we sent with the I-485 application. The duration was for 1 year. Nothing else was different.

[Tycoon]

I remember the original checklist from my lawyer mentioned 6 photographs but when I checked with them they said 2 photos are fine. I believe that's what I gave them and yes, they take your picture during fingerprinting.

FWIW, I can also confirm that when I applied for EAD/AP renewal, I sent in 2 photos for sure. Hope this helps.

Thanks Pedro and Maksimus for your responses.

On further communications between my employer and lawyer, the final direction is to proceed with 2 photos only. I will keep this thread updated about impacts of sending just 2 photos, if any at all!!!

[Maksimus]

Thanks Pedro and Maksimus for your responses.

On further communications between my employer and lawyer, the final direction is to proceed with 2 photos only. I will keep this thread updated about impacts of sending just 2 photos, if any at all!!!

Good luck with the filing. Keep us posted on the developments.

[Pedro Gonzales]

With August winding down, I'm all excited about the upcoming Sep approvals next week. On the August thread, there have been 25 approvals as of Aug 27th, with 7 still waiting. This forum's first approval came on Aug 5th, which was the 3rd working day (excluding Saturdays, although there have been approvals on some Saturdays). With the long weekend, we likely won't see any approvals until Tuesday the 3rd.

Best of luck to us all.

[Spectator]

With August winding down, I'm starting a separate thread for the upcoming Sep approvals next week. On the August thread, there have been 25 approvals as of Aug 27th, with 7 still waiting. This forum's first approval came on Aug 5th, which was the 3rd working day (excluding Saturdays, although there have been approvals on some Saturdays). With the long weekend, we likely won't see any approvals until Tuesday the 3rd.

Best of luck to us all.Pedro,

There is already one (http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/2188-Current-Approvals-In-September-2013-Discussion).

[Pedro Gonzales]

Thanks Spec. I closed that thread down and merged our posts to this thread.

[Pedro Gonzales]

From the PD database thread (http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/201-Database-of-PDs-for-folks-not-current-yet?p=39556#post39556), here are the active users that become current next week. Best of luck to us all, and lets keep everyone updated as to L2 conversations, SR responses, congressional enquiry responses, or simply the CPO email.

01/03/08 - bathula44
01/15/08 - indiasunil
02/08/08 - ramya76
02/08/08 - yawali58
02/22/08 - ggk189
02/28/08 - coolvibe
02/XX/08 - eb2Feb2008
03/11/08 - pseudonym
03/15/08 - ontheedge
03/24/08 - natvyas
03/27/08 - Maksimus
03/28/08 - pdmarch282008
03/28/08 - greenhorns
04/03/08 - yesman
04/08/08 - GCKnowHow
04/18/08 - VChirakala77
04/22/08 - meetasn(Satish)
04/25/08 - Pedro Gonzales
04/30/08 - Makmohan
05/08/08 - pdmay2008
05/14/08 - SeekingGC2013
05/16/08 - free2talk
05/19/08 - shreyasai2004
05/20/08 - pavanraj
05/20/08 - johnknight
05/28/08 - zombie
06/10/08 - mstanfield
06/13/08 - EB2Jun08
06/13/08 - Jun1308

[natvyas]

I hope the lack of approvals today is not a premonition.

[indiani]

I hope the lack of approvals today is not a premonition.

I don't think so, even though they might work on cases, they send approvals mostly on some days, I don't see any other logic,

I hope next 3 days they will give away most of the GC's as I can't imagine any one who is current in august have to waste another longer weekend in this uncertainity

[coolvibe]

we are current in Sept bulletin. EB2 Feb 28, 2008. With regard to an issue I called USCIS service center. They sent me an email as follows:(Typically how much time it takes to get the security clearance. Just need Average time. Thanks in Advance.


:

Recently, you or your representative contacted USCIS to notify us that you believe your case is outside of our normal processing time. Below is a summary of what we found and how the issue has been or may be resolved.

We have placed your case on a processing hold because the required security checks remain pending. Until we receive the results of these security checks, we cannot move forward on your case. We require the results of security checks before we make a decision on any pending case.

We cannot predict when we will receive the results of these security checks. Please be assured that we will make every effort to make a decision in your case as soon as the security checks are complete.

[Dodd_Frank]

we are current in Sept bulletin. EB2 Feb 28, 2008. With regard to an issue I called USCIS service center. They sent me an email as follows:(Typically how much time it takes to get the security clearance. Just need Average time. Thanks in Advance.


:

Recently, you or your representative contacted USCIS to notify us that you believe your case is outside of our normal processing time. Below is a summary of what we found and how the issue has been or may be resolved.

We have placed your case on a processing hold because the required security checks remain pending. Until we receive the results of these security checks, we cannot move forward on your case. We require the results of security checks before we make a decision on any pending case.

We cannot predict when we will receive the results of these security checks. Please be assured that we will make every effort to make a decision in your case as soon as the security checks are complete.
-------------------------------------------------------------

It should be anywhere from 2 weeks to a month for cases without issues.

[Maksimus]

we are current in Sept bulletin. EB2 Feb 28, 2008. With regard to an issue I called USCIS service center. They sent me an email as follows:(Typically how much time it takes to get the security clearance. Just need Average time. Thanks in Advance.


:

Recently, you or your representative contacted USCIS to notify us that you believe your case is outside of our normal processing time. Below is a summary of what we found and how the issue has been or may be resolved.

We have placed your case on a processing hold because the required security checks remain pending. Until we receive the results of these security checks, we cannot move forward on your case. We require the results of security checks before we make a decision on any pending case.

We cannot predict when we will receive the results of these security checks. Please be assured that we will make every effort to make a decision in your case as soon as the security checks are complete.

coovibe, did you get an RFE so far?

[Maksimus]

Quote from a user on Trackitt
"Just called my local congressman office and I was told that NSC has sent a mass email to all congressman offices that they are flooded with applications and the inquiries from congressman offices is delaying their work and thus NSC will not reply to congressman office inquiries for a minimum 30 days and also that might delay the processing of the application that was inquired upon.
The lady from the congressman office told me to wait for another 30 days (end of September) and then inquire. I was like.. ya whatever.. who knows what the bulletin will be for October???"

It makes sense that the flood of inquiries would definitely slow down the already inefficient processing.

[coolvibe]

Yes I had received RFE for self and my wife. We had responded RFE last year but by then the dates were retrograted. Now I got a response that it under security check?

Maksimus
coovibe, did you get an RFE so far?

Originally Posted by coolvibe
we are current in Sept bulletin. EB2 Feb 28, 2008. With regard to an issue I called USCIS service center. They sent me an email as followsTypically how much time it takes to get the security clearance. Just need Average time. Thanks in Advance.


:

Recently, you or your representative contacted USCIS to notify us that you believe your case is outside of our normal processing time. Below is a summary of what we found and how the issue has been or may be resolved.

We have placed your case on a processing hold because the required security checks remain pending. Until we receive the results of these security checks, we cannot move forward on your case. We require the results of security checks before we make a decision on any pending case.

We cannot predict when we will receive the results of these security checks. Please be assured that we will make every effort to make a decision in your case as soon as the security checks are complete.

[tackle]

Yes I had received RFE for self and my wife. We had responded RFE last year but by then the dates were retrograted. Now I got a response that it under security check?

Maksimus
coovibe, did you get an RFE so far?

Originally Posted by coolvibe
we are current in Sept bulletin. EB2 Feb 28, 2008. With regard to an issue I called USCIS service center. They sent me an email as followsTypically how much time it takes to get the security clearance. Just need Average time. Thanks in Advance.


:

Recently, you or your representative contacted USCIS to notify us that you believe your case is outside of our normal processing time. Below is a summary of what we found and how the issue has been or may be resolved.

We have placed your case on a processing hold because the required security checks remain pending. Until we receive the results of these security checks, we cannot move forward on your case. We require the results of security checks before we make a decision on any pending case.

We cannot predict when we will receive the results of these security checks. Please be assured that we will make every effort to make a decision in your case as soon as the security checks are complete.

I'm guessing you filed your application in Dec 2011. It's going to be 2 years in a few months and they are still waiting on security checks? That's ridiculous.

I wonder if there is something that could be done to get help in your case. Gurus, please weigh in.

[coolvibe]

Your Guess is correct I had filed for I485 in Dec 2011. Last time when I called L2 officer he said our case has been pre adjudication. Now as on today I got an email that it is on hold and is waiting for security check. Here is my theory of understanding. Gurus please correct me and advice me.

They have Pre-Adjudicated the file and since the previous security clearance is no longer valid they are seeking once again the security clearance before they can approve I485. Please let me know if that is the right assumption.


I'm guessing you filed your application in Dec 2011. It's going to be 2 years in a few months and they are still waiting on security checks? That's ridiculous.

I wonder if there is something that could be done to get help in your case. Gurus, please weigh in.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Your Guess is correct I had filed for I485 in Dec 2011. Last time when I called L2 officer he said our case has been pre adjudication. Now as on today I got an email that it is on hold and is waiting for security check. Here is my theory of understanding. Gurus please correct me and advice me.

They have Pre-Adjudicated the file and since the previous security clearance is no longer valid they are seeking once again the security clearance before they can approve I485. Please let me know if that is the right assumption.

That's right. The IBIS check needs to be performed for re-adjudication (basically, that's all that's really required except for a possible final check) prior to approval if your previous check was more than 180 days old.

[coolvibe]

Pedro,

Any idea what is the average time for Security Check. Any trend for the folk who where current in Aug 2013?

That's right. The IBIS check needs to be performed for re-adjudication (basically, that's all that's really required except for a possible final check) prior to approval if your previous check was more than 180 days old.

[Pedro Gonzales]

I haven't really seen anything that points me to that. In another thread (http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/2199-I-485-Transfer-to-BENEFIT-CENTER-UNIT-or-NBC-urgent-please?p=39718#post39718), there's a guy that may be able to give us a data point. My gut is that it should be between a few hours and 1 week if there isn't a problem that requires additional investigation.

[Maksimus]

Good luck to all of us who are current in September! Hope we all get our approvals this month.

[desitiger]

Guys,

I know this questions has been asked gazillion times. How long would it take for me to get an EAD (just filed for the first time in Sep 2013). Planning to switch jobs/roles, H1 might cause some concerns.

Thanks,

[Niksammy]

Guys,

I know this questions has been asked gazillion times. How long would it take for me to get an EAD (just filed for the first time in Sep 2013). Planning to switch jobs/roles, H1 might cause some concerns.

Thanks,

Desitiger,

You should be getting EAD/AP card anywhere between 25-90 days from receipt of your application by USCIS. Although the official time frame on USCIS web site is 3 months, my spouse received her EAD (she is a first time filer like you) on 23rd Aug 2013 after applying on 1st Aug 2013. I am pretty sure that you will receive EAD/AP by end of this month or latest by early October 2013.

[vizcard]

Guys,

I know this questions has been asked gazillion times. How long would it take for me to get an EAD (just filed for the first time in Sep 2013). Planning to switch jobs/roles, H1 might cause some concerns.

Thanks,

You should get it pretty quickly (within 2 months I imagine). You have a bigger issue though. You need to wait 6 months from RD of the 485 before you can use AC21 to keep your AOS application alive. If you change jobs before then, you will need to start the GC process all over. Even when you change jobs after 6 months, it has to be in a "similar" role.

[justvisiting]

The first few hours of September in Trackitt have a lot of EB3 approvals. I expect this to be the case. Would not be shocked if most of the approvals actually come from EB3-I, as their dates moved forward considerably. Once the numbers from DOS for FY-2013 come out, I suspect we will see EB3 got more visas than it was supposed to.

[Jagan01]

The first few hours of September in Trackitt have a lot of EB3 approvals. I expect this to be the case. Would not be shocked if most of the approvals actually come from EB3-I, as their dates moved forward considerably. Once the numbers from DOS for FY-2013 come out, I suspect we will see EB3 got more visas than it was supposed to.

Today and tomorrow are very important dates as we would know whether the slowdown towards end of Aug was because of USCIS having less visas available or was it because they were running out of easy preadjudicated cases that can be granted GC.

If we start seeing more than 20 approvals daily then it is clear that they have lot of visas and the slow approvals towards end of Aug had more to do with lesser low hanging fruits.

[Pedro Gonzales]

This forum has been an excellent support for me. Five years has been a long wait and predictions done here by Q, Spec, Teddy & gang are extremely helpful to get us through the waiting period. Finally today the wait is over and I got the Card Production Email:
"Your Case Status: Card/ Document Production
On September 3, 2013, we ordered production of your new card. Please allow 30 days for your card to be mailed to you. If we need something from you we will contact you."

Thanks for the invaluable information and analysis.

Congrats! You're the first on this site. Did you resort to any prodding of the USCIS? SRs, Congressional or Senatorial enquiries, etc?

My latest count on trackitt is 9, excluding the 2 guys that were current in August.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Today and tomorrow are very important dates as we would know whether the slowdown towards end of Aug was because of USCIS having less visas available or was it because they were running out of easy preadjudicated cases that can be granted GC.

If we start seeing more than 20 approvals daily then it is clear that they have lot of visas and the slow approvals towards end of Aug had more to do with lesser low hanging fruits.

Jagan, I'd be very very surprised if the USCIS is running out of visa numbers. I think the slowdown was a mix of end of August vacations and completion of low hanging fruit. I'm sure things will pick up again.

[benjiding]

Fortunately I did not call anyone. No L1, L2 officer, no Congressmen etc. I had filed my 485 myself and when I got RFE for Photo, I replied and waited. The status said 'we are reviewing you response' and it stayed there till finally I got the CP email.

[Pedro Gonzales]

I see 27 total EB2I approvals on trackitt today (threads + tracker).

I think that 27 is going to swell to 30+ by the end of the day.

Splits are as follows:
Current in August:------TSC 6-----NSC 2-----NBC 1-----Total 9
Current in September:--TSC 3-----NSC 15---------------Total 18

[druvraj]

I see 21 total EB2I approvals on trackitt today (threads + tracker).

Of the 21, 7 have been current since August, the other 14 became current today. I think that 21 is going to swell to 30+ by the end of the day.

Can you break it down by service centers?

[Pedro Gonzales]

I read your mind.

[druvraj]

I read your mind.

You sure did. If I may and if possible can you also post their PDs?

[Pedro Gonzales]

You sure did. If I may and if possible can you also post their PDs?

If you are trying to analyze the approvals, I can tell your ight now that it is completely random, with the exception that NSC is mostly focused on September applicants whereas TSC is still clearing out its Aug backlog of porters. Here is my list.

No Username PD Direct or EB3/EB2 RD SC RFE

1 chakdeindia 3/17/2008 Direct 1/5/2012 NSC No
2 parzival 3/10/2008 Direct 1/3/2012 NSC Mar 12
3 crazy007 4/15/2008 Direct 3/7/2012 NSC Jun 12
4 goinggc 5/27/2008 Direct 1/18/2012 NSC
5 iFrustrate 2/29/2008 NSC
6 hkbros 6/12/2008 Direct 3/7/2012 NSC
7 nikkya 4/8/2008 Direct 1/20/2012 TSC No
8 kmvk 4/1/2007 EB3 - EB2 8/1/2007 TSC Aug 13
9 deecee2000 4/22/2008 NSC
10 modic 2/7/2008 1/12/2012 NSC Apr 12
11 bjayaraj 1/4/2008 Direct 12/6/2011 TSC Jul 13
12 sarthakv 9/1/2004 EB3 - EB2 TSC
13 balaji6769 12/25/2006 EB3 - EB2 7/25/2007 NSC/TSC No
14 aped 9/1/2006 EB2 Direct 8/1/2007 NBC
15 HaveaDream 5/1/2007 EB2 Direct TSC Jun 12
16 sriram5 5/15/2008 Direct 2/6/2012 NSC
17 deservegc 5/31/2006 3/9/2012 NSC Aug 13
18 bpadala04 10/4/2006 EB3 - EB2 9/7/2007 NSC/TSC Aug 13
19 JustSigned 4/29/2008 Direct 2/2/2012 NSC Jun 12
20 dhana 2/5/2008 Direct 1/17/2012 NSC
21 eagergc2012 3/20/2008 Direct NSC Mar 12
22 Rolo 1/31/2008 Direct 4/6/2012 TSC
23 Caballo 11/30/2007 Direct 12/8/2011 NSC Aug 13
24 maneeshk 1/8/2008 Direct 2/2/2012 NSC Jul 12
25 suryagude 3/25/2008 Direct 1/17/2012 NSC No
26 USGC78 5/26/2006 Direct 11/7/2012 TSC Aug 13
27 virgoking 4/25/2008 Direct 4/23/2012 NSC Sep 12

[druvraj]

Once again you were lighting fast and yes I am trying to analyse the approvals. Last month too NSC started off fast but then TSC not caught up but went past them within the first 10 days of the month. A few things to note as you have already noted and lets us keep updating for all of us(If it makes sense) to get a quick snapshot for people who want quick summaries and don't want numbers.

1. NSC approvals mostly EB2i direct are getting LPR status.
2. TSC still clearing 2007 cases.

[Jagan01]

Jagan, I'd be very very surprised if the USCIS is running out of visa numbers. I think the slowdown was a mix of end of August vacations and completion of low hanging fruit. I'm sure things will pick up again.

I am with you on that... I also feel that there are sufficient numbers available and the slowdown in Aug end was because of lesser low hanging fruits... Good luck Pedro...

[Pedro Gonzales]

I do see one pattern in the approvals. Far more applicants have responded to RFEs at some point in the last 2 years than I would have expected (about 50% for Septemberers). Maybe 1 out of every 2 employees at NSC has received an RFE and so it isn't significant at all, but it would surprise me if the RFE ratio was that high (remember NSC wasn't subject to the mass RFEs in June). I think it is more likely that the RFE response review was completed at some point within the last 6 months and that it triggered a simultaneous IBIS check , which means those guys are truly pre-adjudicated (assuming the RFE response was sufficient).

The RFE % for Augusters is much higher (70%), but that makes sense, as those cases are mostly TSC (and so subject to the mass RFEs in June).

[Pedro Gonzales]

Another update.

31 total EB2I approvals on trackitt today (threads + tracker).

Splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 7-----NSC 4-----NBC 1-----Total 12
Septemberers:--TSC 3-----NSC 16---------------Total 19

[natvyas]

After trying to control myself for the whole day, I called USCIS. I requested to be put through to the L2 officer. The wait time was 90 mins so left the call back number. 60 mins later got the call from L2 officer. After taking the usual details, she pulled up my case details and then was taken aback by the fact that the case was received in Jan 2012 ( I guess she didn't figure that I was from India). She quickly wrote an email to NSC asking for a status update and advised me that I should hear from them before 20 September (is this SR?).

On my question related to the fact if everything on my file was "in-order". She then told me that my file was reviewed in May and June and if something was amiss they would have issued an RFE. She said everything seems ok.

Regards
Nat

[Jun1308]

I initially thought of waiting for a week to open SR but not controlled myself and spoke to L1 and L2 officers today. L1 officer opened SR and told i will get the response in 15 days. Are we going to get the response through regular mail only or email also ? I remember during 2012 when i opened SR for FP status, i received the response in email.

L2 officer was very rude and she told my application was 'Preadjucated' but other than that she didn't answer anything. I asked her about the background check status and whether my application was assigned to officer for final review, she said I will get the response for SR and wait for that.

Hoping to here good news in coming weeks.

[indiani]

After trying to control myself for the whole day, I called USCIS. I requested to be put through to the L2 officer. The wait time was 90 mins so left the call back number. 60 mins later got the call from L2 officer. After taking the usual details, she pulled up my case details and then was taken aback by the fact that the case was received in Jan 2012 ( I guess she didn't figure that I was from India). She quickly wrote an email to NSC asking for a status update and advised me that I should hear from them before 20 September (is this SR?).

On my question related to the fact if everything on my file was "in-order". She then told me that my file was reviewed in May and June and if something was amiss they would have issued an RFE. She said everything seems ok.

Regards
Nat

yes that's SR, she is correct most likely you wont get RFE ( but not impossible)

[indiani]

Another update.

31 total EB2I approvals on trackitt today (threads + tracker).

Splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 7-----NSC 4-----NBC 1-----Total 12
Septemberers:--TSC 3-----NSC 16---------------Total 19

That's not bad but I hope they issue same or higher everyday ( I am hoping 40 approx. on some days)

[Spectator]

Another update.

31 total EB2I approvals on trackitt today (threads + tracker).

Splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 7-----NSC 4-----NBC 1-----Total 12
Septemberers:--TSC 3-----NSC 16---------------Total 19So far, the numbers that have updated the Tracker with a September 3 approval date are:

Year -- NSC -- TSC - Total
2005 ---- 1 ---- 0 - --- 1
2006 ---- 3 ---- 2 - --- 5
2007 ---- 1 ---- 2 - --- 3
2008 --- 13 ---- 4 ---- 17

Total -- 18 ---- 8 ---- 26

[Pedro Gonzales]

Near final update for yesterday.

37 total EB2I approvals on trackitt today (threads + tracker).

Splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 9-----NSC 4-----NBC 1-----Total 14
Septemberers:--TSC 5-----NSC 18---------------Total 23

We have 4 so far today, two Augusters from TSC and two Septemberers from NSC.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Congrats man. Looks like your IBIS check didn't take too long after all.

[JosephM]

Did FP yesterday as per appointment. Got emails for the derivative applicant on status update for 485 and EAD but nothing for the primary, We did not change the address still the email response said there was some address change.
PD- Dec 2007, EB2 I (first time 485)

[coolvibe]

Thanks Spec,Pedro,Matt and all other Gurus. Keep up the good work of the forum and I wish good luck for all the forum members.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Up to 10 approvals so far (tracker and threads)

Splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 5-----NSC 0-----Total 5
Septemberers:--TSC 1-----NSC 4-----Total 5

TSC is still largely working on clearing the August backlog.

[druvraj]

I called USCIS and asked them about the status and they told me that address change thing that I am seeing is wrong and I should disregard it. An L2 officer told me that my application was pre adjudicated in april 2012 and since the RFE in June it is currently being looked at by an officer. He would not tell me anything more. Asked me to wait for 60 days before he can do anything. To be honest I am nervous as hell after the information. Any advice since I am not too sure what my application status is. I have a feeling that he had more information and he refused to share that with me. Very lazy guy though.

[Pedro Gonzales]

31 approvals so far (tracker and threads)

Splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 9-----NSC 0-----Total 9
Septemberers:--TSC 4-----NSC 18-----Total 22

TSC still working largely on clearing August backlog, but slowly shifting to the Septemberers too.

[ashirolkar]

Pedro - Really like the summary that you have started here. I am hoping to get approved this month -- fingers crossed. Recipient of mass RFE on 6/14 and responded on 7/26 and case status changed to RFE Response Review the next day for all three of us.

I have been reading up on this website for the past few months and frankly have gotten hooked on to the great discussions that happen here and the nice analyses presented by Q, Spec, Matt, Indiani, Pedro, etc. Great work you guys/gals! Finally registered on this website today since I wanted to express my gratitude :)

[Spectator]

31 approvals so far (tracker and threads)

Splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 9-----NSC 0-----Total 9
Septemberers:--TSC 4-----NSC 18-----Total 22

TSC still working largely on clearing August backlog, but slowly shifting to the Septemberers too.Pedro,

Sod the numbers!

Only one matters.

Congratulations on your I-485 approval!!!

Well deserved.

[Pedro Gonzales]

37 approvals so far (tracker and threads) and the 37th was ME!

Inspired by natvyas' post earlier, I called an L1 officer and got the run around, so I did some more research on trackitt, figured out how to get to an L2 officer, and chose to give my number rather than wait the 122 minutes they said it would take. About 90 minutes later I got a call back, and really no information from the L2 officer other than that my application was with an officer. Less than 20 minutes later, I got the Card Production/Decision SMS and email. I really have no way to be sure if the two were related at all, but mine isn't the first case out there where this has happened.

The latest splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 9-----NSC 0-----Total 9
Septemberers:--TSC 6-----NSC 22-----Total 28

TSC was working largely on clearing August backlog this morning, but appears to have shifted to the Septemberers this afternoon.

After years of approaching this with a zen-like almost-Buddhist calm, I've been pretty distracted since the last VB came out and absolutely consumed by this since last week (as many of you would have noticed). I have been battling this affliction and have tried hard to switch my focus back to work, but wasn't able to. Now, I think can.

I don't think i'm going to continue to scour trackitt looking for updates, so if anyone wants to continue to do so, send me a PM with your personal email and i'll forward my spreadsheet to you.

Jai Hind, Go Yankees and God save the Queen!

[Maksimus]

37 approvals so far (tracker and threads) and the 37th was ME!

Inspired by natvyas' post earlier, I called an L1 officer and got the run around, so I did some more research on trackitt, figured out how to get to an L2 officer, and chose to give my number rather than wait the 122 minutes they said it would take. About 90 minutes later I got a call back, and really no information from the L2 officer other than that my application was with an officer. Less than 20 minutes later, I got the Card Production/Decision SMS and email. I really have no way to be sure if the two were related at all, but mine isn't the first case out there where this has happened.

The latest splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 9-----NSC 0-----Total 9
Septemberers:--TSC 6-----NSC 22-----Total 28

TSC was working largely on clearing August backlog this morning, but appears to have shifted to the Septemberers this afternoon.

After years of approaching this with a zen-like almost-Buddhist calm, I've been pretty distracted since the last VB came out and absolutely consumed by this since last week (as many of you would have noticed). I have been battling this affliction and have tried hard to switch my focus back to work, but wasn't able to. Now, I think can.

I don't think i'm going to continue to scour trackitt looking for updates, so if anyone wants to continue to do so, send me a PM with your personal email and i'll forward my spreadsheet to you.

Jai Hind, Go Yankees and God save the Queen!

Congrats man! So happy for you! Enjoy the green life.

[pdmay2008]

37 approvals so far (tracker and threads) and the 37th was ME!

Inspired by natvyas' post earlier, I called an L1 officer and got the run around, so I did some more research on trackitt, figured out how to get to an L2 officer, and chose to give my number rather than wait the 122 minutes they said it would take. About 90 minutes later I got a call back, and really no information from the L2 officer other than that my application was with an officer. Less than 20 minutes later, I got the Card Production/Decision SMS and email. I really have no way to be sure if the two were related at all, but mine isn't the first case out there where this has happened.

The latest splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 9-----NSC 0-----Total 9
Septemberers:--TSC 6-----NSC 22-----Total 28

TSC was working largely on clearing August backlog this morning, but appears to have shifted to the Septemberers this afternoon.

After years of approaching this with a zen-like almost-Buddhist calm, I've been pretty distracted since the last VB came out and absolutely consumed by this since last week (as many of you would have noticed). I have been battling this affliction and have tried hard to switch my focus back to work, but wasn't able to. Now, I think can.

I don't think i'm going to continue to scour trackitt looking for updates, so if anyone wants to continue to do so, send me a PM with your personal email and i'll forward my spreadsheet to you.

Jai Hind, Go Yankees and God save the Queen!

Congrats! Enjoy the green life. It is good that your case transferred to NSC and you got approval faster. I wish TSC starts looking at 2008 cases now. Good Luck every one.

[natvyas]

I had 2 questions for anyone who could shed light

1) Is the rate of approval this month any indication of visas left?

2) Is the time taken for the background check inversely proportional to number of trips outside USA?

regards
Nat

[seattlet]

two of my friends with Jan 2008 PD got approved today. they are not in trackitt, so thought of posting it here

[Guest123]

Unfortunately but absolutely none heloo.

Hi

My priority date is current this month (March 2008), filed in Dec 2011. Called the L2 officer today who confirmed that the case is preadjudicated. Raised an SR. Can you please advise if calling/email the congressman would help or to just wait and watch?

thank you !!

[qesehmk]

Hi

My priority date is current this month (March 2008), filed in Dec 2011. Called the L2 officer today who confirmed that the case is preadjudicated. Raised an SR. Can you please advise if calling/email the congressman would help or to just wait and watch?

thank you !!
Calling for help shouldn't hurt at all. Go ahead and do it! All the best guest.

[qesehmk]

I had 2 questions for anyone who could shed light

1) Is the rate of approval this month any indication of visas left?

2) Is the time taken for the background check inversely proportional to number of trips outside USA?

regards
Nat
#1 - No. At best it could say how many visas were issued. But not how many are left.
#2 - You probably mean directly proportional. If so, then yes I would believe so.

[Guest123]

Calling for help shouldn't hurt at all. Go ahead and do it! All the best guest.

Thanks Q. Is there a sample email format to write to the congressman that you could share please.

Thank you !!

[qesehmk]

Thanks Q. Is there a sample email format to write to the congressman that you could share please.

Thank you !!
There was one i posted 2 years back. See if you can find it in 485 section. Sorry the forum's search capabilities are not good. I tried to find but couldn't.

[indiani]

37 approvals so far (tracker and threads) and the 37th was ME!

Inspired by natvyas' post earlier, I called an L1 officer and got the run around, so I did some more research on trackitt, figured out how to get to an L2 officer, and chose to give my number rather than wait the 122 minutes they said it would take. About 90 minutes later I got a call back, and really no information from the L2 officer other than that my application was with an officer. Less than 20 minutes later, I got the Card Production/Decision SMS and email. I really have no way to be sure if the two were related at all, but mine isn't the first case out there where this has happened.

The latest splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 9-----NSC 0-----Total 9
Septemberers:--TSC 6-----NSC 22-----Total 28

TSC was working largely on clearing August backlog this morning, but appears to have shifted to the Septemberers this afternoon.

After years of approaching this with a zen-like almost-Buddhist calm, I've been pretty distracted since the last VB came out and absolutely consumed by this since last week (as many of you would have noticed). I have been battling this affliction and have tried hard to switch my focus back to work, but wasn't able to. Now, I think can.

I don't think i'm going to continue to scour trackitt looking for updates, so if anyone wants to continue to do so, send me a PM with your personal email and i'll forward my spreadsheet to you.

Jai Hind, Go Yankees and God save the Queen!

Congrats ! get ready for dozen emails from uscis and couple of welcome notices+ THE CARD

[Spectator]

Thanks guys, especially you Spec. I'm not going to abandon the forum, so i'm not going to give a long drawn out speech. But a couple of weeks of vacation will help with my addiction.

A couple of chilled beers now to help this sink in.Pedro,

Glad to hear you are sticking around.

I'm off on vacation as well, so I won't be around for a while fairly soon.

I think some people will probably think that's a good thing BM!

PS One of the beers is mine - too late, you drunk it already!

[engineer]

I also called L2 officer, to check the status, Turned out to be a good thing I called becaz, eventhough I had done online address change last year and also got EAD on new address my 485 didn't pick up new address. so got it changed. Also, officer stated that my case in-review
What is does it mean? Does it mean, my file/case is being reviewed (duhh) by officer at present and they will make the decision soon? or there is no activitiy? I checked the status definatios, it states, inital review means it is being reviewed for extra info. required by them or not etc.
Please help me undertood and relieve my pressure.

Also, I read couple of questions about June PD and chances of getting green....if that makes you happy...one of the friend I know, he got greened Today with June 13 as a PD. So there is a chance, it is not in order it is random.

[yank]

Gurus,

Can anyone please tell what is difference b/w opening a e-request vs manual SR via L1/L2 officer over the phone?

[natvyas]

I have seen people ask many questions about how to approach USCIS to get an update, I have a different question:

How did people keep them occupied when they waited USCIS to act on their application?

Regards
Nat

[engineer]

I have been people ask many questions about how to approach USCIS to get an update, I have a different question:

How did people keep them occupied when they waited USCIS to act on their application?

Regards
Nat


Lol...I had the same questions.. but then I think there is different set of officer who work on the files, than the level 2 customer reps./officers.

[pavanraj]

Yes engineeer you are correct... I spoke to L2 officer today & it is said L2 are only Liasons. Actual Case Workers are different. These L2 people would produce a request so that file can be pulled out for the caller by whichever Case Worker is assigned on that case.

[ontheedge]

[QUOTE=Pedro Gonzales;39933]37 approvals so far (tracker and threads) and the 37th was ME! QUOTE]

Hope you're drinking yourself silly and taking the day off tomorrow! Congratulations, again! Trying hard to control my urge to raise SRs, stalk the congressman and senators and bombard the USCIS customer service line. Getting harder by the minute.

[RogerFederer]

Pedro congratulations. This must be grareat feeling.

Yesterday I called L2 as well. Pre ad and with officer. Wish my turn comes soon. Entropy (randomness) laws are at full swing. Randomness never decreases, randomness(files) cannot be moved, only they can be created or destoyed. Nsc and tsc in equiliruim with dos, so they must be in equilibrium.

Wish some quantum equation hits my luck and I get my gc.

[RogerFederer]

Btw officer told me no SR is required, just I need to wait.

[vizcard]

I had 2 questions for anyone who could shed light

1) Is the rate of approval this month any indication of visas left?

2) Is the time taken for the background check inversely proportional to number of trips outside USA?

regards
Nat


#1 - No. At best it could say how many visas were issued. But not how many are left.
#2 - You probably mean directly proportional. If so, then yes I would believe so.

Regarding #2, I don't think it has anything to do with travel. It probably has more to do with length of stay in the US.

Its pretty much a blackhole every time you leave the country and come back..there is no record of all the places you may have visited overseas. At best they can base it on where your flight is coming in from and trace it back to country of origin of the itinerary. But I don't believe they have the manpower to do that for every single case. However, the longer you've stayed in the country, the more data is there to check.

[TeddyKoochu]

37 approvals so far (tracker and threads) and the 37th was ME!

Inspired by natvyas' post earlier, I called an L1 officer and got the run around, so I did some more research on trackitt, figured out how to get to an L2 officer, and chose to give my number rather than wait the 122 minutes they said it would take. About 90 minutes later I got a call back, and really no information from the L2 officer other than that my application was with an officer. Less than 20 minutes later, I got the Card Production/Decision SMS and email. I really have no way to be sure if the two were related at all, but mine isn't the first case out there where this has happened.

The latest splits are as follows:
Augusters:------TSC 9-----NSC 0-----Total 9
Septemberers:--TSC 6-----NSC 22-----Total 28

TSC was working largely on clearing August backlog this morning, but appears to have shifted to the Septemberers this afternoon.

After years of approaching this with a zen-like almost-Buddhist calm, I've been pretty distracted since the last VB came out and absolutely consumed by this since last week (as many of you would have noticed). I have been battling this affliction and have tried hard to switch my focus back to work, but wasn't able to. Now, I think can.

I don't think i'm going to continue to scour trackitt looking for updates, so if anyone wants to continue to do so, send me a PM with your personal email and i'll forward my spreadsheet to you.

Jai Hind, Go Yankees and God save the Queen!

Congratulations Pedro and family on the well deserved approval and your contributions to immigration forums. Enjoy green life.

[Maksimus]

A pretty slow day at TSC today. We don't have Pedro compiling his approval lists. I hope he is out enjoying the new freedom! Good for him!

[Pedro Gonzales]

Thanks for the wishes everybody. I went for a run to celebrate yesterday and have immersed myself in the work that I'd neglected for the last two days.

As to my list, as I think about it, the online tracker at trackitt has 31 cases for Sep 3rd compared to my 37 (a> 80% + ratio). Anyone can use the tracker to gauge how approvals have been coming far more efficiently. I'll try and reproduce it once in a while. Here is the data for the last 3 days.

Sep 3
Augusters:------TSC:4---NSC: 6---Total:10
Septemberers:--TSC:5---NSC:16---Total:21
Total:------------TSC:9---NSC:22---Total:31

Sep 4
Augusters:------TSC: 8---NSC: 0---Total:08
Septemberers:--TSC: 6---NSC:28---Total:34
Total:------------TSC:14---NSC:28---Total:42

Sep 5
Augusters:------TSC:1---NSC: 0---Total:01
Septemberers:--TSC:2---NSC:15---Total:17
Total:------------TSC:3---NSC:15---Total:18

[RogerFederer]

Another painful day gone into history books for me. Each day starts bright and ending with hope for tomorrow. Soon I will enjoy freedom as well.

[ontheedge]

Observing the NSC v/s TSC processing trends piqued my curiosity. Did a little web crawling to see what the trend has been in the prior years...I was extremely surprised to find that back in 2008, NSC was so slow that a bunch of folks wrote complaints to the Ombudsman and called the DHS Hotline....AND apparently, NSC's approvals picked up considerably after that. Do the old-timers (Q, Teddy, et al) remember this? I read that similar complaints were made during the July 2007 free-for-all, and approvals started appearing miraculously.

[pseudonym]

Observing the NSC v/s TSC processing trends piqued my curiosity. Did a little web crawling to see what the trend has been in the prior years...I was extremely surprised to find that back in 2008, NSC was so slow that a bunch of folks wrote complaints to the Ombudsman and called the DHS Hotline....AND apparently, NSC's approvals picked up considerably after that. Do the old-timers (Q, Teddy, et al) remember this? I read that similar complaints were made during the July 2007 free-for-all, and approvals started appearing miraculously.

That is certainly interesting. How do you go about contacting the ombudsman? Was it done as a group in the past or were people reaching out individually to the ombudsman? I think we should certainly consider this approach this time around (for the TSC in this case) since the TSC approvals seem to be painfully slow compared to NSC. I am hoping things will pick up over Friday (and Saturday, since we have seen approvals coming from TSC on Saturdays in the past), but it is a fine balance. I also do not want to wait until it is too late to contact the ombudsman if we think that may speed up the process.

[vizcard]

That is certainly interesting. How do you go about contacting the ombudsman? Was it done as a group in the past or were people reaching out individually to the ombudsman? I think we should certainly consider this approach this time around (for the TSC in this case) since the TSC approvals seem to be painfully slow compared to NSC. I am hoping things will pick up over Friday (and Saturday, since we have seen approvals coming from TSC on Saturdays in the past), but it is a fine balance. I also do not want to wait until it is too late to contact the ombudsman if we think that may speed up the process.

How to contact - http://www.dhs.gov/ombudsman-case-assistance
When to contact - Sooner the better...there is already history to go off (the month of august).

Question is - is TSC going slower than their "goals"? Each agency/service center has metrics that they are judged on (and audited on). So if TSC is beating those goals, its hard to make a case. Ofcourse we don't know those goals unless we do some extensive research and we can only guess at their current daily output (of all types of applications - not just 485s).

[ontheedge]

That is certainly interesting. How do you go about contacting the ombudsman? Was it done as a group in the past or were people reaching out individually to the ombudsman? I think we should certainly consider this approach this time around (for the TSC in this case) since the TSC approvals seem to be painfully slow compared to NSC. I am hoping things will pick up over Friday (and Saturday, since we have seen approvals coming from TSC on Saturdays in the past), but it is a fine balance. I also do not want to wait until it is too late to contact the ombudsman if we think that may speed up the process.

From what I read, people wrote individual emails using the same content/template. I'm wondering if this would be an extreme measure at this point; it's been 4 business days since the month began. However, it was good to learn that there is an option out there.
I was hoping someone from the senior lot would chime in on this. It's been eeriely quiet for some days. I am planning to link this on trackitt and see what the sentiments are on this topic.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Sep 3
Augusters:------TSC:4---NSC: 6---Total:10
Septemberers:--TSC:5---NSC:17---Total:22
Total:------------TSC:9---NSC:23---Total:32

Sep 4
Augusters:------TSC: 8---NSC: 0---Total:08
Septemberers:--TSC: 6---NSC:29---Total:35
Total:------------TSC:14---NSC:29---Total:43

Sep 5
Augusters:------TSC:1---NSC: 0---Total:01
Septemberers:--TSC:2---NSC:18---Total:20
Total:------------TSC:3---NSC:18---Total:21

Sep 6
Augusters:------TSC:1---NSC:0---Total:1
Septemberers:--TSC:0---NSC:1---Total:1
Total:------------TSC:1---NSC:1---Total:2

[natvyas]

Friends

I just got approved at 2:17 pm

Cheers
Nat

[ontheedge]

Friends

I just got approved at 2:17 pm

Cheers
Nat

Congratulations, Nat! My PD is so close to yours..... but I believe your processing center was NSC. I am unable to concentrate on anything....hoping TSC starts looking at the applicants who received the mass RFEs soon.

[Jagan01]

The rate of approvals has been amazing in Sept... I see on trackitt that we have had 126 approvals already... I think by the end of the day we should be somewhere around 140... That would translate to 140 in 4 days which is 35 per day.

I am getting a feeling that no visas will go wasted due to lack of processing speed.

[natvyas]

Hang in there my friend, you will get approved soon.

I see that approval rate at TSC has picked up as of today. NSC has been going at it since Tuesday.

[natvyas]

pseudonym

I dont think so the reason being I called yesterday and today and on both occasions I was told that SR has been assigned to the officer but not looked at. At that point (this morning) I asked the question has my file been pulled from the warehouse and assigned to officer. I was told that it is being reviewed as of this morning which gave me hope.

Hope this helps. I would recommend not to be bashful about following up.

Regards
Nat

[qesehmk]

chikki - we haven't interacted at all. But I saw the 1999 arrival and I felt your pain. So heartiest wishes for this as well as post GC life and career.

oops -- answer to your question is - indeed this is very normal. Card production and mailing is typically called post decision activity. So teh case will continue to show up.
I have been silent visitor of this forum so far. I am not sure if I am through yet.
I want to convey my heartfelt appreciation for lot of knowledgeable folks here Q, Vizcard, Pedro, Indiani & any other guru I missed.

I recieved this email & text message from USCIS few minutes back. Does this mean my I-485 is approved? The status changed from Acceptance (until this morning) to Card Production. Is this normal?

-------------------------------------------------------------
On September 6, 2013, we ordered production of your new card. Please allow 30 days for your card to be mailed to you. If we need something from you we will contact you. If you move before you receive the card, call customer service at 1-800-375-5283.
-------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks

My case History:
Arrived in US in 1999 on F-1
Two Masters in US
Applied for 1st LABOR through Employer A in June 2007
Applied for I-140 through Employer A in Feb 2008
Changed employment from Employer A to Employer B
Applied for 2nd LABOR through Employer B in March 2011
Stuck in RFE
Changed employment from Employer B to Employer C
Applied for 3rd LABOR through Employer C in May 2012
Applied for I-140 in August 2012
Applied for I-1485 on July 31st 2013
EAD recieved on 9/3/13

[indiani]

The rate of approvals has been amazing in Sept... I see on trackitt that we have had 126 approvals already... I think by the end of the day we should be somewhere around 140... That would translate to 140 in 4 days which is 35 per day.

I am getting a feeling that no visas will go wasted due to lack of processing speed.

with this pace of approvals

visas will not go waste but the main question is how many visas are in fact available, I hope close to 20K. If let say there are only 17K available, then they might internally stop issuing towards the end of the month.

[indiani]

Congrats to all who got approved in September , chikki is one of the few who came before I did ( arrival 2001). I hope at least some ( who got GC) will stay on the forum for few more months.

[JosephM]

Chikki seems to have filed for I485 for the first time on July 31st 2013. Does it mean that they have started approving August 2013 first time filed cases?

chikki - we haven't interacted at all. But I saw the 1999 arrival and I felt your pain. So heartiest wishes for this as well as post GC life and career.

oops -- answer to your question is - indeed this is very normal. Card production and mailing is typically called post decision activity. So teh case will continue to show up.

[chikki77]

Yes, I applied I-485 for the first time in August 2013. Based on advice given on this forum went in for early finger printing (10 days early). Thanks again!

However, My wife's I-485 status still shows "Acceptance". Hope she gets through by end of this month.

Does the dependent always get the card approval in the same month as the primary does?

Are there instances where the primary got it in a given month and dates retrogressed before dependent is approved and dependent had to wait for the following year to get approved?

Although started posting recently, in this forum been involved in 3 Washington DC advocacy events since 2007.

Hope more folks get greened and there is no wastage this year.

Thanks

[JosephM]

Did you file in TSC? Congratulations and I think your family will get it in the coming days.

Yes, I applied I-485 for the first time in August 2013. Based on advice given on this forum went in for early finger printing (10 days early). Thanks again!

However, My wife's I-485 status still shows "Acceptance". Hope she gets through by end of this month.

Does the dependent always get the card approval in the same month as the primary does?

Are there instances where the primary got it in a given month and dates retrogressed before dependent is approved and dependent had to wait for the following year to get approved?

Although started posting recently, in this forum been involved in 3 Washington DC advocacy events since 2007.

Hope more folks get greened and there is no wastage this year.

Thanks

[engineer]

Friends

I just got approved at 2:17 pm

Cheers
Nat

Congrats NatVyas.

What is u r PD?

[engineer]

Has anyone seen March 2008 Approvals? Who ever I know who got their GC are from April, May and June. seems like they have started backwards..Any thoughts? please.

[engineer]

I was reading on tracking that if u change the address, it will trigger another background check. Is it true?pls ans. thx

[chikki77]

JosephM.
Yes, my SC was TSC.

[indiani]

I was reading on tracking that if u change the address, it will trigger another background check. Is it true?pls ans. thx

no, it wont

[Vkkpnm]

JosephM.
Yes, my SC was TSC.

Congrats Chikki. When was your scheduled FP date and what was your I485 status before receiving your approval email?

[natvyas]

Congrats NatVyas.

What is u r PD?

24th March 08

[engineer]

Thx guys for the reply...

[RogerFederer]

Still waiting... no updates yet:( . L2 words of - with officer under review - was now 4 days over.

[Niksammy]

Gurus,

I have been waiting patiently since Aug 2013 with Dec 2006 PD (EB3-EB2 upgrade) for USCIS to approve my i-485. Unfortunately, USCIS has not been too kind to me till now :mad:

Since then, I have taken the following steps to ensure that USCIS picks up my case:
1) Requested my lawyer to send a mail to USCIS informing them that my dates are current and my application should be processed. USCIS response was that my application is being processed under Eb2, should hear back in 90 days.
2) Contacted my Congresswoman's office on 8th Aug 2013. Got the update on 26 Aug that my file has been requested from File store, background and name checks are current, and should get an answer in 45-60 days. Caseworker at congresswoman's office said that if I do not hear back by 1st Oct 2013, they will contact USCIS again.
3) Took infopass on 20th Aug 2013. USCIS officer was very nasty and did not give any update other than wait.
4) Sent an eRequest on 22nd Aug 2013 (still waiting to hear back from USCIS)

The only 3 options that I can STILL think of using moving forward are :
- Call USCIS, try talking to L2 officer and get some update about my case (hoping that I get connected to a nice L2 officer rather than a nasty one).
- Contact the senator's office for help for first time.
- Contacting caseworker already assigned to my case at Congresswoman's office and requesting him to get an update from USCIS ASAP rather than waiting till 1st Oct 2013. I am planning to tell him that if we wait till 1st Oct 2013, visas might be over. (Personally looks like the best option to me)

Could you please suggest if there is something other than what I have listed above that I should/could do to improve my chances? I never thought I will have to wait this long to get an approval after becoming current in Aug and even face the risk of USCIS running out of VISAS.
:(

[chikki77]

Congrats Chikki. When was your scheduled FP date and what was your I485 status before receiving your approval email?

scheduled FP date = 9/3/2013
early walk-in completed = 8/23/2013
status changed from Acceptance to Card/ Document Production

Thanks

[Maksimus]

Looks like TSC is not working on cases that received RFE. Most of the cases they're approving are those without an RFE. Gurus, any thoughts?

[natvyas]

Gurus,

I have been waiting patiently since Aug 2013 with Dec 2006 PD (EB3-EB2 upgrade) for USCIS to approve my i-485. Unfortunately, USCIS has not been too kind to me till now :mad:

Since then, I have taken the following steps to ensure that USCIS picks up my case:
1) Requested my lawyer to send a mail to USCIS informing them that my dates are current and my application should be processed. USCIS response was that my application is being processed under Eb2, should hear back in 90 days.
2) Contacted my Congresswoman's office on 8th Aug 2013. Got the update on 26 Aug that my file has been requested from File store, background and name checks are current, and should get an answer in 45-60 days. Caseworker at congresswoman's office said that if I do not hear back by 1st Oct 2013, they will contact USCIS again.
3) Took infopass on 20th Aug 2013. USCIS officer was very nasty and did not give any update other than wait.
4) Sent an eRequest on 22nd Aug 2013 (still waiting to hear back from USCIS)

The only 3 options that I can STILL think of using moving forward are :
- Call USCIS, try talking to L2 officer and get some update about my case (hoping that I get connected to a nice L2 officer rather than a nasty one).
- Contact the senator's office for help for first time.
- Contacting caseworker already assigned to my case at Congresswoman's office and requesting him to get an update from USCIS ASAP rather than waiting till 1st Oct 2013. I am planning to tell him that if we wait till 1st Oct 2013, visas might be over. (Personally looks like the best option to me)

Could you please suggest if there is something other than what I have listed above that I should/could do to improve my chances? I never thought I will have to wait this long to get an approval after becoming current in Aug and even face the risk of USCIS running out of VISAS.
:(

My friend

Call the USCIS everyday till you a satisfactory answer....if the L1 officer gives us BS...ask him/him to give her name and Id number and ask the person to confirm on record that the next update will be specific....then speak to L2 officer for an update....be polite ....

there is nothing as such to improve your situation for sure but you can keep calling...maybe that will help....

remember......

"DESPARATE SITUATION REQUIRES DESPARATE MEASURES".....

at the end of the day nothing works (I hope not) atleast you can/will have the solace that you tried evetrything...

god bless u...may u have the approval soon.

Cheers
Nat

[RogerFederer]

Calling l2 can have adverse effects as wll. Remember not only nice ppl out there, there is also a chance you get a person, who just got a divorse letter that morning from lawyer :-) .

Its all luck and fate. Unfortunately that is the truth I believe in. Most of the stories will have happy ending, but its just matter of time.

I personally feel the pain everyday. Hope its my day tomorrow as always I wish.

[primus]

Chikki,

I am very happy for you. You brought some hope for me.
I came US in 2000 on F1 (finished MS in 2002) and now stuck in GC process. My EB2 priority date is Sept 2006 from employer A. I left for India to start my own company in 2007 and came back US in 2011. Applied Labor and I-140 from employer B in early 2012. Applied for 485 first time on Aug 1st 2013. My FP was scheduled for Sept. 9th, but got my FP done in advance on Aug. 19th. only. My service centre is TSC

No sign of EAD yet and of course not received that lucky email of card production yet :) Looking at your situation, I could not understand how USCIS process applications. Is it on receipt date or priority date or its their wish. You are one the luckiest guy who got GC in less than 6 weeks post 485 application. I am very happy for you. Enjoy your freedom.

[ashirolkar]

As Pedro pointed out a few days ago, it is now pretty clear based on trackitt data that TSC is mostly going by Receipt Date and not by Priority Date. Which sucks for me because I filed 485 in April 2012 and TSC is mostly approving Jan and Feb 2012 cases still. My friend just got his approval this past weekend (PD Jun 2008 but applied for 485 in Feb 2012). I am worried that they may run out of visas before they get to our cases. I am debating if I should call USCIS and maybe open a SR but worried that it may actually hurt my chances (i.e. file will get pulled out of their queue or something crazy like that). Clearly I am getting nervous and not thinking straight. Would love to get any advice from the gurus out there. My PD is March2008, EB2 India (Direct), RD April2012.

[pdmay2008]

Another week started. No News yet on my case. Raised SRs through L1 officer and spoke to L2. No Information from L2 officer other than wait. Sent request to Congressman office and still waiting for their response. Not sure what else I can do other than waiting. Can we call L2 on daily basis to see if they can give any additional information. I don't see that as any help, but atleast it will give some mental satisfaction. Have infopass scheduled for this Thursday.

[Dodd_Frank]

Hi,
I got a SR response for my Wife's I-485 application that indicates: Background investigation is still open.
The primary applicant has already been approved (3 weeks back). Can anybody guess the wait time for approval?
Thanks

[yank]

Can we take Infopass even if SR is not 45 days old?

[KKKKKK]

All gurus,
MY PD is 03/2008 with 485 filed in Jan 2012 and still waiting for the magic email. This probably has been answered/discussed before but a quick question.

Assume if USCIS is not able to process 2013 quota visas to all the applicants by end of this month and they are few visas left and if the dates don't retrogress in October and stay at June 14th...will USCIS be able to process applications in October for 2013 quota? or with new FY starting in Oct and new FY quota starting will they have to let those visas go wasted?

Basically can we expect any approvals in October for all of us who were not able to make it in September if the dates do not retrogress?

Appreciate all for all the work you do, cant thank enough.

Good luck to everyone and wish all waiting to get greened in September.

Cheers!

[chikki77]

I see most of the approvals from primary and dependent are coming together, atleast same day.
I(primary) and my Wife(Dependent) applied for COS on 7/31/2013. RD= 8/6/2013. My I-485 status changed from "Acceptance" to "Card/Document Production" on 9/6/2013 but my wife's online status still shows as in "Acceptance". Since my RD is 8/6/2013. Can I open SR to check on status of my wife's I-485 application?

Thanks

[Dodd_Frank]

I see most of the approvals from primary and dependent are coming together, atleast same day.
I(primary) and my Wife(Dependent) applied for COS on 7/31/2013. RD= 8/6/2013. My I-485 status changed from "Acceptance" to "Card/Document Production" on 9/6/2013 but my wife's online status still shows as in "Acceptance". Since my RD is 8/6/2013. Can I open SR to check on status of my wife's I-485 application?

Thanks

Wait for at-least a week and then go ahead with the SR request.

[Dodd_Frank]

All gurus,
MY PD is 03/2008 with 485 filed in Jan 2012 and still waiting for the magic email. This probably has been answered/discussed before but a quick question.

Assume if USCIS is not able to process 2013 quota visas to all the applicants by end of this month and they are few visas left and if the dates don't retrogress in October and stay at June 14th...will USCIS be able to process applications in October for 2013 quota? or with new FY starting in Oct and new FY quota starting will they have to let those visas go wasted?

Basically can we expect any approvals in October for all of us who were not able to make it in September if the dates do not retrogress?

Appreciate all for all the work you do, cant thank enough.

Good luck to everyone and wish all waiting to get greened in September.

Cheers!

2013 Visas will no longer be applicable. You will be under 2014 quota.

[pdmay2008]

2013 Visas will no longer be applicable. You will be under 2014 quota.

October VB Out. EB2I June 15th 2008. No change. Thank God. We still have more time.

[Jagan01]

All gurus,
MY PD is 03/2008 with 485 filed in Jan 2012 and still waiting for the magic email. This probably has been answered/discussed before but a quick question.

Assume if USCIS is not able to process 2013 quota visas to all the applicants by end of this month and they are few visas left and if the dates don't retrogress in October and stay at June 14th...will USCIS be able to process applications in October for 2013 quota? or with new FY starting in Oct and new FY quota starting will they have to let those visas go wasted?

Basically can we expect any approvals in October for all of us who were not able to make it in September if the dates do not retrogress?

Appreciate all for all the work you do, cant thank enough.

Good luck to everyone and wish all waiting to get greened in September.

Cheers!

I do not see any visas being wasted in FY 2013. I had checked the last few years (back until 2008) and it has never happened in the past for EB visas. I do not understand why it should happen this time.

Also, in Aug we say around 530 approvals in trackitt. Spec might be able to give accurate numbers. Many on this forum say that 530 in Aug would have translated to 8k in real life.

In Sept, already we have seen around 190 approvals in trackitt. It should reach 200 by end of day meaning that 200 approvals in 5 working days. Approx 40 each day. At this rate Sep should easily see around 650 approvals in trackit and that should translate to 10k. If together with aug and sep we see 18k approvals then I do not know how there can be any wastage of visas.

[Niksammy]

I see most of the approvals from primary and dependent are coming together, atleast same day.
I(primary) and my Wife(Dependent) applied for COS on 7/31/2013. RD= 8/6/2013. My I-485 status changed from "Acceptance" to "Card/Document Production" on 9/6/2013 but my wife's online status still shows as in "Acceptance". Since my RD is 8/6/2013. Can I open SR to check on status of my wife's I-485 application?

Thanks

Chikki77,

In my opinion, you can not open a SR since your wife's case has not exceeded the current processing time of 4 months for i-485 processing.

[ontheedge]

Spec, where art thou?

[Vkkpnm]

I am happy that after all you went through, you are the first one to get GC among first time filer.

[engineer]

Hello Gurus,
I called the L2 they said it is in the background chk....( again?) becaz my first fbi fingerprinting was more than 15 months...pls share u r thoughts...am i on track to get green? Thanks in advance.

[qesehmk]

engineer AFAIK background check is a one time affair. Within 15 months duration - they won't be doing it twice. So more than likely they never completed background check on your application and have taken it up now.

What's your PD country category?

Hello Gurus,
I called the L2 they said it is in the background chk....( again?) becaz my first fbi fingerprinting was more than 15 months...pls share u r thoughts...am i on track to get green? Thanks in advance.

[engineer]

engineer AFAIK background check is a one time affair. Within 15 months duration - they won't be doing it twice. So more than likely they never completed background check on your application and have taken it up now.

What's your PD country category?

Thanks Q..
PD - March 2008 EB2- I

[qesehmk]

Thanks Q..
PD - March 2008 EB2- I
The only thing I can think of is that probably they took up your application for processing now. Background check usually won't repeat within a span of 15 months. So this is the very first time you are being processed.

[tackle]

engineer AFAIK background check is a one time affair. Within 15 months duration - they won't be doing it twice. So more than likely they never completed background check on your application and have taken it up now.

What's your PD country category?

If this is true (ie. USCIS has to do Background Checks again if Finger-Printing was done 15 months back), USCIS has to do Background Check again for anyone who had their Finger Printing done in or before Apr 2012.

As far as I can tell, Background Checks is the one thing that could easily vary between applicants. So, if it took several months for Background Check to be completed for an applicant the first time around, then I'd think it'd take the same length of time this time as well.

So, for someone who missed the boat last time due to pending Background Check, the chances that someone would get greened this year would be slim.

What makes it even hard is that there is no way for one to know why they missed the boat when the dates were current last time. So, all we can do is just sit and wait.

[engineer]

The only thing I can think of is that probably they took up your application for processing now. Background check usually won't repeat within a span of 15 months. So this is the very first time you are being processed.

Thanks Q..

Q I know you already answered the most, but do or anyother Guru think that given scenrio must have triggered the check again? I know at this point I was about to give up on day to day tracking on status and just wait and watch to come!

RD- March 12
My FP done as per schedule on May 2012
Since then...
EAD renewed
Moved to diff. Town. Change of address
Travelled twice to India
L2 told me case was pre-adj. In june 2013

[druvraj]

If this is true (ie. USCIS has to do Background Checks again if Finger-Printing was done 15 months back), USCIS has to do Background Check again for anyone who had their Finger Printing done in or before Apr 2012.

As far as I can tell, Background Checks is the one thing that could easily vary between applicants. So, if it took several months for Background Check to be completed for an applicant the first time around, then I'd think it'd take the same length of time this time as well.

So, for someone who missed the boat last time due to pending Background Check, the chances that someone would get greened this year would be slim.

What makes it even hard is that there is no way for one to know why they missed the boat when the dates were current last time. So, all we can do is just sit and wait.


When I spoke with a L2 officer he told me that I was pre adjudicated last April and currently my case is being assigned to an officer. I completed my FP in feb 2012. Do I have to wait for another round of clearance. With each passing day I am losing hope. I thought I would get GC week one if not day one.

[Jun1308]

I spoke to L2 officer and she said my case was preadjucated and assigned to officer for review.
Any thoughts on how long it will take from the time it assigned to officer.any chance of file being left out even at this stage with the reason of visa number non availability.

do they assign the visa number before the officer review or after the completion of final review ?

And also with the Oct bulletin also become current for June 2008, Is FY 2013 Spillover going be used in October month also even though it falls under FY 14 ?

[tackle]

Do I have to wait for another round of clearance. With each passing day I am losing hope. I thought I would get GC week one if not day one.

I certainly hope not. I'm on the same boat as you. Actually, come to think of it, I don't think I'm even on a boat. I have no idea what is up with my application.

[druvraj]

I certainly hope not. I'm on the same boat as you. Actually, come to think of it, I don't think I'm even on a boat. I have no idea what is up with my application.

I got the exact same feeling after I spoke with the L2. He did not give me any information and felt lost after talking to him. Did you get an RFE in June. He said that officer is looking into my RFE response.

[tackle]

Did you get an RFE in June. He said that officer is looking into my RFE response.

Yes, I did get the RFE on Jun 14. My company lawyers responded on Jun 19. Waited for 60 days and nothing happened. So, I called USCIS on Aug 21 and they opened an SR as my case was outside of normal processing times. Called last friday to check if SR was assigned to an officer (as it was 15 days since SR was opened) and was told by L1 that the SR was assigned to an officer who had already sent a response stating that my file has been requested and that I should hear something back from them within 90 days.

I hope you don't have to wait as long as I did. All the best!

[engineer]

If this is true (ie. USCIS has to do Background Checks again if Finger-Printing was done 15 months back), USCIS has to do Background Check again for anyone who had their Finger Printing done in or before Apr 2012.

As far as I can tell, Background Checks is the one thing that could easily vary between applicants. So, if it took several months for Background Check to be completed for an applicant the first time around, then I'd think it'd take the same length of time this time as well.

So, for someone who missed the boat last time due to pending Background Check, the chances that someone would get greened this year would be slim.

What makes it even hard is that there is no way for one to know why they missed the boat when the dates were current last time. So, all we can do is just sit and wait.

...................

By the time I did the FP on scheduled day, the date was already retro... So I am not sure If my Background check was done last year. your comment about anyone with FP done prior to April 2012 needs to redo; that raised the question about when the FP is done that is just the start of background check..doing the FP doesn't mean the background check is completed on that day itself. It has to go to FBI and then their system, so it may take days, weeks or months who knows. So depending on when it is completed (no on knows . except FBI and USCIS) it shouldn't trigger the check again.

feel free to comment..

[ontheedge]

Hardly any approvals in the last couple days...don't know what to make of it. The wait is just mind-numbing.

[ontheedge]

Tackle - I'm really surprised that you have not received your approval yet. Rooting for yours, as much as mine. Good luck to all of us!

[Maksimus]

ontheedge, did you receive an RFE on June 14? TSC or NSC? I received an RFE at TSC. Looks like they have finally started working on cases that received an RFE at TSC.

[ontheedge]

ontheedge, did you receive an RFE on June 14? TSC or NSC? I received an RFE at TSC. Looks like they have finally started working on cases that received an RFE at TSC.

Yes, I'm also one of the God's chosen - mass RFE receipient and a TSC applicant. Are you going by Trackitt posts? When I checked this morning, there was only one approval that fell into the bucket and very few approvals overall. Am glad if that has changed.

[Maksimus]

Yes. There were a couple more which gives me hope. Users SA2012, sfbingo, test515 (although his PD is Dec 21, 2007), PradeepIndia and 07312007 all received approvals today after responding to mass RFE on June 14. Let's hope our turn comes soon!

[Maksimus]

Yes, I did get the RFE on Jun 14. My company lawyers responded on Jun 19. Waited for 60 days and nothing happened. So, I called USCIS on Aug 21 and they opened an SR as my case was outside of normal processing times. Called last friday to check if SR was assigned to an officer (as it was 15 days since SR was opened) and was told by L1 that the SR was assigned to an officer who had already sent a response stating that my file has been requested and that I should hear something back from them within 90 days.

I hope you don't have to wait as long as I did. All the best!

Dude, really sorry for you. You have been waiting for way too long, even among us Indians who have all waited far too long. Rooting and praying for you to get your approval in the next couple of days!

[druvraj]

I was able to raise a SR and they told me that I should hear something by Sept 26. After 26 there are only 2 processing days. L2 did not want to reveal anything other than just wait. I have a conference call with my attorney tomorrow but I am sure he will say the same thing. If I miss the boat I really do not know when will the window open and even if it opens am I ever getting it since I do not the status of my application.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Got my GC in the mail this morning. My wife got her card yesterday. Contrary to recent reports, the card really is green.

[Jagan01]

Hardly any approvals in the last couple days...don't know what to make of it. The wait is just mind-numbing.

I do not know where is this coming from. "Hardly any approvals" ???

There have been 266 approvals for Sept month. Is that not sufficient ? Entire August had around 550.

[sandyn16]

Had an info pass appointment for last Friday, the rep told me that my file was audited or looked at on Sept 4th. the last update date on my case is Aug 13th. I always thought whenever they touch your file, the LUD is updated

PD - 07/2006 still waiting .. :(

[idiotic]

Finally got the email

EB2I - TSC - 05/14/2008 - RD - 03/14/2008

feel so releived.

thanks all for your efforts on this blog

Just realized I mistakenly marked you as Green in 2013 in the "Database of users who are current.." thread. Anyway it came true now :) Congrats..

[ontheedge]

I do not know where is this coming from. "Hardly any approvals" ???

There have been 266 approvals for Sept month. Is that not sufficient ? Entire August had around 550.

Jagan, my comment was only based on the last couple days at TSC, and before we saw the flurry of approvals this afternoon. As I mentioned in a later comment, glad we saw high activity again!

[vchirakala77]

Hi Gurus,

Please HELP.

PD : 04/18/2008
RD : 01/05/2012

Received a case status email at 4:00pm EST changed from "Acceptence" to "initial Review". At the same time wife status got updated to "Card/Document Ordered".

Is there something I need to do about this. Or is it just an update issue on my status.

Please let me know.

[rohan621]

Gurus,

My dependent applied for I-485 along with me during March 2012. My I-485 got recently approved and I received CPO emails. I did not get CPO emails for my dependent. Looking back at the I-797C I received when NSC accepted the application; I noticed that my dependent had been issued a priority date of March 2012. Is this the same for everyone - or was this a mistake on part of USCIS and hence my dependent's I-485 is still in review?

Can anyone confirm what the priority date is listed on their dependent's I-797C received when they filed for I-485?

I am getting really nervous!

[Jagan01]

Jagan, my comment was only based on the last couple days at TSC, and before we saw the flurry of approvals this afternoon. As I mentioned in a later comment, glad we saw high activity again!

It has been high for almost every working day in Sept.... I do not think it ever went down. You can check yesterdays approvals on trackitt...

[RogerFederer]

Approvals will keep on coming atleast until end of month imo.

[qesehmk]

Gurus,

My dependent applied for I-485 along with me during March 2012. My I-485 got recently approved and I received CPO emails. I did not get CPO emails for my dependent. Looking back at the I-797C I received when NSC accepted the application; I noticed that my dependent had been issued a priority date of March 2012. Is this the same for everyone - or was this a mistake on part of USCIS and hence my dependent's I-485 is still in review?

Can anyone confirm what the priority date is listed on their dependent's I-797C received when they filed for I-485?

I am getting really nervous!

Indeed this mistake needs to be corrected. You can either try to contact USCIS and bring this to their attention or simply file a new 485 (but that's going to cost money - so former is better). Don't worry - your dependent will get his number .. only that it will now take some time.


Hi Gurus,

PLEASE HELP

PD : 04/18/2008
RD : 01/05/2012

My case status got updated today at 4:00pm ESt to "Initial Review" from "Acceptence" but at the same time my wife's status got updated to card production ordered.

Is it something i have to worry about ?

Kindly let me know
These could very well be just the processing quirks. Perhaps just wait for a couple of days and I think it should straighten out. Or simply call USCIS and talk to them.

Good luck to both of you Rohan and vchirakala.

[vchirakala77]

Thank You Qesehmk. I just received this status.

The last processing action taken on your case


Receipt Number: SRC1290xxxxxx


Application Type: I485 , APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS


Your Case Status: Decision


On September 11, 2013, we mailed you a notice that we had registered this customer's new permanent resident status. Please follow any instructions on the notice. Your new permanent resident card should be mailed within 60 days following this registration or after you complete any ADIT processing referred to in the welcome notice, whichever is later. If you move before receiving your card, please call our customer service center at 1-800-375-5283.


During this step the formal decision (approved/denied) is written and the decision notice is mailed and/or emailed to the applicant/petitioner. You can use our current processing time to gauge when you can expect to receive a final decision.



If you have questions or concerns about your application or the case status results

listed above, or if you have not received a decision from USCIS within the current

processing time listed*, please contact USCIS Customer Service at (800) 375-5283.


*Current processing times can be found on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov under Check Processing Times.


*** Please do not respond to this e-mail message.


Sincerely,


The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

I think this is it.

[Jagan01]

Thank You Qesehmk. I just received this status.

The last processing action taken on your case


Receipt Number: SRCxxxxxx


Application Type: I485 , APPLICATION TO REGISTER PERMANENT RESIDENCE OR TO ADJUST STATUS


Your Case Status: Decision


On September 11, 2013, we mailed you a notice that we had registered this customer's new permanent resident status. Please follow any instructions on the notice. Your new permanent resident card should be mailed within 60 days following this registration or after you complete any ADIT processing referred to in the welcome notice, whichever is later. If you move before receiving your card, please call our customer service center at 1-800-375-5283.


During this step the formal decision (approved/denied) is written and the decision notice is mailed and/or emailed to the applicant/petitioner. You can use our current processing time to gauge when you can expect to receive a final decision.



If you have questions or concerns about your application or the case status results

listed above, or if you have not received a decision from USCIS within the current

processing time listed*, please contact USCIS Customer Service at (800) 375-5283.


*Current processing times can be found on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov under Check Processing Times.


*** Please do not respond to this e-mail message.


Sincerely,


The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

I think this is it.


Please remove ur SRC number. I do not know why you would want to paste it here :confused:

[chikki77]

Gurus,

My dependent applied for I-485 along with me during March 2012. My I-485 got recently approved and I received CPO emails. I did not get CPO emails for my dependent. Looking back at the I-797C I received when NSC accepted the application; I noticed that my dependent had been issued a priority date of March 2012. Is this the same for everyone - or was this a mistake on part of USCIS and hence my dependent's I-485 is still in review?

Can anyone confirm what the priority date is listed on their dependent's I-797C received when they filed for I-485?

I am getting really nervous!


Gurus,

I am in a similar boat, I applied for I-485 ( primary and dependent). I got my I-485 approved. After reading Rohan's post checked dependent's receipt notice and it does not have priority date or category listed. My receipt had both. IS this cause for concern?

Thanks

[suninphx]

Gurus,

My dependent applied for I-485 along with me during March 2012. My I-485 got recently approved and I received CPO emails. I did not get CPO emails for my dependent. Looking back at the I-797C I received when NSC accepted the application; I noticed that my dependent had been issued a priority date of March 2012. Is this the same for everyone - or was this a mistake on part of USCIS and hence my dependent's I-485 is still in review?

Can anyone confirm what the priority date is listed on their dependent's I-797C received when they filed for I-485?

I am getting really nervous!

That's common. Search FY2012 thread around Jan -Mar 12 dates and you will find many people reporting the receipt date as priority dates for dependents.

[vizcard]

Gurus,

My dependent applied for I-485 along with me during March 2012. My I-485 got recently approved and I received CPO emails. I did not get CPO emails for my dependent. Looking back at the I-797C I received when NSC accepted the application; I noticed that my dependent had been issued a priority date of March 2012. Is this the same for everyone - or was this a mistake on part of USCIS and hence my dependent's I-485 is still in review?

Can anyone confirm what the priority date is listed on their dependent's I-797C received when they filed for I-485?

I am getting really nervous!

Dependents PD = RD. Their file is attached to yours. MY theory is that to assign an "A" number, the USCIS systems needs a PD. So they default to the RD. Because the cases are linked the dependent PD is not relevant.

[vchirakala77]

Please remove ur SRC number. I do not know why you would want to paste it here :confused:

I know ..its was a mistake. I just wanted to find out how long does it take from here to get to "Card/Document Production".

[yesman]

Got an SMS from USCIS. Status shows:

Card/ Document Production
On September 12, 2013, we ordered production of your new card. Please allow 30 days for your card to be mailed to you.

My PD is 04/03/08. Thanks to this wonderful forum that has been a source of hope several times over the course of the past few years and good luck to others that are still waiting

[yank]

Got CPO Email/SMS Today

EB2I - Direct - NSC
PD - Jan 2008
Created SR on 9/4/2013
Spoke to L2 officer on 09/06 and 09/09. Got some positive information about my case on 09/09
CPO - 9/12/2013 - 5:15 am CST

Thanks to Q, Big T, Spectator and Matt

This forum helps to plan immigration related activities during GC journey.

All the best to fellow members who are waiting.

[sandyn16]

During my Infopass appointment last Friday, the rep said my file was audited on September 4th, I asked what does auditing mean, and she said they must have gone through it , made sure everything is ok

But last LUD on my case is August 13th.

From whatever I am reading, this does not seem possible, meaning if they touch the file for anything, should see atleast soft LUD right? Any thought?

[iblveicanget]

Got CPO Email/SMS Today

EB2I - Direct - NSC
PD - Jan 2008
Created SR on 9/4/2013
Spoke to L2 officer on 09/06 and 09/09. Got some positive information about my case on 09/09
CPO - 9/12/2013 - 5:15 am CST

Thanks to Q, Big T, Spectator and Matt

This forum helps to plan immigration related activities during GC journey.

All the best to fellow members who are waiting.

Congrats, good to see Jan approval. What is your RD? and exact Priority Date?

[yank]

congrats, good to see jan approval. What is your rd? And exact priority date?


pd - 01/23/2008
rd - 12/07/2011

[TeddyKoochu]

Got CPO Email/SMS Today

EB2I - Direct - NSC
PD - Jan 2008
Created SR on 9/4/2013
Spoke to L2 officer on 09/06 and 09/09. Got some positive information about my case on 09/09
CPO - 9/12/2013 - 5:15 am CST

Thanks to Q, Big T, Spectator and Matt

This forum helps to plan immigration related activities during GC journey.

All the best to fellow members who are waiting.

Thanks, Congratulations to you and your family, enjoy green life !

[yank]

Thanks, Congratulations to you and your family, enjoy green life !

Thanks Teddy!

[qesehmk]

Congratulations yank. My best wishes for future.
Got CPO Email/SMS Today

EB2I - Direct - NSC
PD - Jan 2008
Created SR on 9/4/2013
Spoke to L2 officer on 09/06 and 09/09. Got some positive information about my case on 09/09
CPO - 9/12/2013 - 5:15 am CST

Thanks to Q, Big T, Spectator and Matt

This forum helps to plan immigration related activities during GC journey.

All the best to fellow members who are waiting.

[yank]

Congratulations yank. My best wishes for future.

Thanks Q. I appreciate your time and help during this long wait.

[RogerFederer]

Hi all..

Finally its my turn to say the good news.. got cpo update.. such a great day in my life..

To all ppl who r still waiting..please note below..

Just wait.. uscis does their best.. the same way we have defects in our IT, in every company.. they have some issues.. but they do their best..
In doubt check with L2 once... no need of sr etc, unless yours delayed beyond 30 days..

Finally thank u Q and viz for ur support and community help that u r providing...hope God bless u both and you are successful in evrything u do..

[idiotic]

Congrats RogerFeder, yank and yesman.. Start partying now :)

[Jagan01]

Hi all..

Finally its my turn to say the good news.. got cpo update.. such a great day in my life..

To all ppl who r still waiting..please note below..

Just wait.. uscis does their best.. the same way we have defects in our IT, in every company.. they have some issues.. but they do their best..
In doubt check with L2 once... no need of sr etc, unless yours delayed beyond 30 days..

Finally thank u Q and viz for ur support and community help that u r providing...hope God bless u both and you are successful in evrything u do..

Well your prediction was correct. You said ur turn was going to be today and so it was.

Congratulations

[Jagan01]

Congrats rogerfrederer, yank and yesman

[qesehmk]

Roger - happy for you. You were here briefly but reminded me of Soggadu - who was yet another jolly soul. Wish you very well for future.
Hi all..

Finally its my turn to say the good news.. got cpo update.. such a great day in my life..

[tackle]

Congratulations Roger and others who got greened today. I hope you all take a small break and enjoy your green life :).


uscis does their best.. the same way we have defects in our IT, in every company.. they have some issues..

I understand this, but the problem is that they keep "defer"ing my case to the next year. I just hope they don't "quirk" it! :)

[Maksimus]

Hi all..

Finally its my turn to say the good news.. got cpo update.. such a great day in my life..

To all ppl who r still waiting..please note below..

Just wait.. uscis does their best.. the same way we have defects in our IT, in every company.. they have some issues.. but they do their best..
In doubt check with L2 once... no need of sr etc, unless yours delayed beyond 30 days..

Finally thank u Q and viz for ur support and community help that u r providing...hope God bless u both and you are successful in evrything u do..

Congrats RogerFederer! Very happy for you! Enjoy the green life with your family! I just spoke to L2 office and raised an SR. Let's see if that will result in a positive outcome in the next few days!

[Maksimus]

Congrats yank and yesman!

[TeddyKoochu]

I understand this, but the problem is that they keep "defer"ing my case to the next year. I just hope they don't "quirk" it! :)

Hey tackle all the best for your speedy approval the whole forum is now rooting for you. You are the senior most now by all counts good luck. Good that dates are current in October also but I hope you get approved ASAP.

[GCKnowHow]

I have called USCIS and opened a SR, hope I see some update soon.

[hk2004]

Can you please help if any of you were in a similar situation as below:

My I-485 and my wife's I-485 were approved on Sep 3rd. We got the physical cards on Sep 7th.
My wife was in India ( since July 30th) and came back to US on Sep 12th. She showed her EAD/AP card at POE ( in San Francisco). She was asked to fill a paper based I-94 ( at secondary inspection) and was paroled in with an end date of Sep 11, 2014. The immigration officer did not ask or mention anything about her I-485 approval. My wife also did not volunteer to tell anything since she was not asked.
Few others who have been in a similar situation have mentioned that they either got I-551 stamped in their passports or were paroled in but were asked to vist the local CBP office with their green card for deferred inspection.
Does my wife need to go to local CBP office for deferred inspection?

Thanks for your time.

[sandyn16]

Does USCIS really stick to the timelines it provides?

In my case I am referring to following?

- RFE response on July 2nd saying will get something in 60 days --- time limit passed and i opened SR , read somwhere they respond in max 90 days
- congressman on aig 18th got response saying i wil get response in 30 days -- hoping to see something by sept 18th

But the confusion I have is does USCIS really stick to these timelines or they are just standard responses...

Getting really frustated, waited on EB3 for 9 years, and dates werent current, and now ported to EB2 , and EB3 dates are also current so wondering if i made a mistake here

[primus]

Gurus,

Happy to see lots of approval in last few days.

I have two basic questions:

(1) I have filed 485/765/131 on 8/1/13. My PD is 9/1/06 on EB2 (not a porting). I hear a lot of people talk about opening SR or talking L1 and L2 office, Infopass. I am pretty novice, can someone explain what all these abbreviations mean? And what are they for and when to use?

(2) I am more concerned about my wife, who cannot work, so we are keeping our finger crossed for at least her EAD. I see on trakkit lots of applicant who filed 765 with me on 8/1/13 have received their EAD. So for enquiry with USCIS, what are the options do I have? (SR, L1, L2 ??) . However I have requested my congressman to send an enquiry to USCIS yesterday and they will be sending it to USCIS soon.

Appreciate guidelines in advance.

[engineer]

On Trackiit I saw bunch of approval for this morning...seems like TSC is working hard....no signs of NSC

[engineer]

Does anyone know if NSC is working on saturdaysjust like TSC...

[MATT2012]

Does anyone know if NSC is working on saturdaysjust like TSC...

NSC is not active on Saturdays, though I have seen approvals off and on..

[FirstTimeFiler]

Not sure if I am posting it in right thread or not. Need some advise or inputs from gurus of this form.

I am new Sep 2013 filer(filed on 09/03/2013). My PD: Feb, 2008. I missed my boat last year. My H1B expires on 09/30. I applied for my H1B extension in June 2013 and I haven't heard anything about my H1B extension. Suppose if I get my EAD by end of November and decide to use my EAD (working for same employer), if I did not hear anything about my H1B extension, will there be any issues. The duration between Oct 1 to the date I received my EAD, what would be my immigration status between this period? Do you suggest me to apply for premium processing for my H1B, just to avoid any immigration issues in future even if I receive my GC early next year(just saying)?

I haven't received my 485/EAD/AP receipts yet(USCIS received on 09/04). My checks were cashed as EFT(Electronic Fund Transfer) by USCIS (NSC), so online bank account I cannot see images of my checks(thought I can see receipt nbrs on back of check). Is this normal EFT by USCIS. I thought they cash the checks non-EFT way, so that applicants can see image of the checks.

Thanks in advance.

[ggk189]

Gurus,

Happy to see lots of approval in last few days.

I have two basic questions:

(1) I have filed 485/765/131 on 8/1/13. My PD is 9/1/06 on EB2 (not a porting). I hear a lot of people talk about opening SR or talking L1 and L2 office, Infopass. I am pretty novice, can someone explain what all these abbreviations mean? And what are they for and when to use?

SR stands for Service Request. It is an option that USICS allows after a case is pending for more than the stipulated processing time. So if there is no update on the case based on the current processing time guideline issued, one can open a Service Request after stipulated processing time.

The below USCIS website will mention the processing time if you select the service center
https://egov.uscis.gov/cris/processTimesDisplayInit.do

L1 and L2 are the level 1 and level 2 customer service representatives for USCIS. when you call the 1-800 number on the receipt notices for your case, L1 officer will be the first one who will respond to your case. Since they are the first level support, their privleges to access backend systems are some what limited. When they cannot answer your question or if the response needs further information about your case they will transfer to an L2 officer.



(2) I am more concerned about my wife, who cannot work, so we are keeping our finger crossed for at least her EAD. I see on trakkit lots of applicant who filed 765 with me on 8/1/13 have received their EAD. So for enquiry with USCIS, what are the options do I have? (SR, L1, L2 ??) . However I have requested my congressman to send an enquiry to USCIS yesterday and they will be sending it to USCIS soon.

For EAD usually USCIS go by the received date. The current processing time for both TSC and NSC for I 765 is 3 months .
Usually you should receive the EAD prior but if you feel it is nearing Nov sometime in October reserve an appointment time for any day beyond 11/1/2013 at your local USCIS service center

Prior to the above stated processing time I think an SR is not allowed.

Appreciate guidelines in advance.

Please see my responses inline.

[vizcard]

Can you please help if any of you were in a similar situation as below:

My I-485 and my wife's I-485 were approved on Sep 3rd. We got the physical cards on Sep 7th.
My wife was in India ( since July 30th) and came back to US on Sep 12th. She showed her EAD/AP card at POE ( in San Francisco). She was asked to fill a paper based I-94 ( at secondary inspection) and was paroled in with an end date of Sep 11, 2014. The immigration officer did not ask or mention anything about her I-485 approval. My wife also did not volunteer to tell anything since she was not asked.
Few others who have been in a similar situation have mentioned that they either got I-551 stamped in their passports or were paroled in but were asked to vist the local CBP office with their green card for deferred inspection.
Does my wife need to go to local CBP office for deferred inspection?

Thanks for your time.

First, she should have mentioned at the POE that she got her green card. But at this point she doesn't need to go to CBP again.



Not sure if I am posting it in right thread or not. Need some advise or inputs from gurus of this form.

I am new Sep 2013 filer(filed on 09/03/2013). My PD: Feb, 2008. I missed my boat last year. My H1B expires on 09/30. I applied for my H1B extension in June 2013 and I haven't heard anything about my H1B extension. Suppose if I get my EAD by end of November and decide to use my EAD (working for same employer), if I did not hear anything about my H1B extension, will there be any issues. The duration between Oct 1 to the date I received my EAD, what would be my immigration status between this period? Do you suggest me to apply for premium processing for my H1B, just to avoid any immigration issues in future even if I receive my GC early next year(just saying)?

You would be in H1 pending status. You should have atleast got a receipt notice related to your H1. If you go beyond the stated processing time for H1B, you should call them and ask them about it. You don't need to apply for premium.




I haven't received my 485/EAD/AP receipts yet(USCIS received on 09/04). My checks were cashed as EFT(Electronic Fund Transfer) by USCIS (NSC), so online bank account I cannot see images of my checks(thought I can see receipt nbrs on back of check). Is this normal EFT by USCIS. I thought they cash the checks non-EFT way, so that applicants can see image of the checks.

Thanks in advance.
you should get your receipt notices next week. If you don't you should called the service center and find out more. EFT is pretty normal.

[FirstTimeFiler]

Thank you vizcard for your reply.

I can stay legally here in US for 240 days from the day my I-94 expires. What if I get my EAD or GC before my H1B gets approved. Will there be any immigration issue in future for the duration of Oct 1(Sep 30 my I94 expires) to the date I get my EAD(if I plan to use it) or GC. What immigration status will it be considered for that duration.

[qesehmk]

FTF - welcome to forum. In case on Oct 1 if you don't have H1 then your status is AOS. You are safe on that status. No worries. But if you also don't have EAD- that will mean you can't continue your employment.

You will likely not receive your GC until Jan 2014. So you may want to make sure that you maintain your employment until then using either EAD or H1. It doesn't matter what you use - although H1 is always better so that just in case something goes wrong with 485 then you can fall back on H1. However note that for 485 approval you don't have to have employment now. As long as that job is available after you receive GC - you are good.

All the best for your case.


Thank you vizcard for your reply.

I can stay legally here in US for 240 days from the day my I-94 expires. What if I get my EAD or GC before my H1B gets approved. Will there be any immigration issue in future for the duration of Oct 1(Sep 30 my I94 expires) to the date I get my EAD(if I plan to use it) or GC. What immigration status will it be considered for that duration.

[RogerFederer]

Not sure if I am posting it in right thread or not. Need some advise or inputs from gurus of this form.

I am new Sep 2013 filer(filed on 09/03/2013). My PD: Feb, 2008. I missed my boat last year. My H1B expires on 09/30. I applied for my H1B extension in June 2013 and I haven't heard anything about my H1B extension. Suppose if I get my EAD by end of November and decide to use my EAD (working for same employer), if I did not hear anything about my H1B extension, will there be any issues. The duration between Oct 1 to the date I received my EAD, what would be my immigration status between this period? Do you suggest me to apply for premium processing for my H1B, just to avoid any immigration issues in future even if I receive my GC early next year(just saying)?

I haven't received my 485/EAD/AP receipts yet(USCIS received on 09/04). My checks were cashed as EFT(Electronic Fund Transfer) by USCIS (NSC), so online bank account I cannot see images of my checks(thought I can see receipt nbrs on back of check). Is this normal EFT by USCIS. I thought they cash the checks non-EFT way, so that applicants can see image of the checks.

Thanks in advance.
You will under status of pending h1after 9/30..if anything happens to h1, u will be pending aos status..u will not have any issue with status unless H1 and AOS ultimately denied...
How much risk taker r u..and how badly u want to b safe. You r the only one who can make that call.

[Vkkpnm]

I just want to argue here that even though FTF does not get EAD by Oct 1, he can still continue employment on H1B as he has already filed H1B extn. So he should be fine working on H1 until its decision come.

[qesehmk]

VK. Thanks. I think this settles it for FTF.
I just want to argue here that even though FTF does not get EAD by Oct 1, he can still continue employment on H1B as he has already filed H1B extn. So he should be fine working on H1 until its decision come.

[FirstTimeFiler]

Thank you for your reply Q.

I can continue my employment till end of March 2014 (240 day rule). Like you mentioned, I would get GC mostly somewhere near Jan 2014. If that is true. Say, if I dont here anything about my H1B extension till Jan 2014 and luckily if I get my GC in Jan 2014, will there be any issue in future like applying for Citizenship or USCIS might come back later and revoke my GC. Suppose if I get my GC in Jan 2014 and should I still be worried about that pending H1B extension and what if it get denied or something after I get my GC. Just thinking in so many different ways. Just want to be careful in this last stage of my GC.

[FirstTimeFiler]

Thank you for your reply RogerFederer.

I can take risk unless it doesn't effect my GC processing(now and in future(any revokes))

[FirstTimeFiler]

I just want to argue here that even though FTF does not get EAD by Oct 1, he can still continue employment on H1B as he has already filed H1B extn. So he should be fine working on H1 until its decision come.

you are correct about me continuing my employment even though my current H1B expired. I can continue till 240 days from the day my I94 expired and if I still didnot hear anything about my H1B extension, I need to wait for the decision by staying outside of US.

[qesehmk]

FTF - you are welcome. If you get your GC and after that your H1 gets denied -- that has no bearing on your future since your employment eligibility was based on pending H1. So you are not violating anything.


Thank you for your reply Q.

I can continue my employment till end of March 2014 (240 day rule). Like you mentioned, I would get GC mostly somewhere near Jan 2014. If that is true. Say, if I dont here anything about my H1B extension till Jan 2014 and luckily if I get my GC in Jan 2014, will there be any issue in future like applying for Citizenship or USCIS might come back later and revoke my GC. Suppose if I get my GC in Jan 2014 and should I still be worried about that pending H1B extension and what if it get denied or something after I get my GC. Just thinking in so many different ways. Just want to be careful in this last stage of my GC.

[FirstTimeFiler]

FTF - you are welcome. If you get your GC and after that your H1 gets denied -- that has no bearing on your future since your employment eligibility was based on pending H1. So you are not violating anything.

Thank you for your input, Q.

[chikki77]

Thank you for your input, Q.

Gurus,
Please help !
As posted earlier in the same thread, I received my physical card in mail on 9/12/2013. but my wife's status still shows in Acceptance.

How do I check if my wife's ( dependent) I-485 is connected to my file(Primary). IS it normal procedure for dependent's file getting delayed after primary app if approved?

Both our applications( packaged together and send in one package) reached USCIS Texas service center on 8//1/2013.
Both of us got our fingerprinting done on 8/23/2013 ( early walk-in).
Both got our EAD & AP Combo card on 9/3/2013.
MY I-485 status changed to card production on 9/6/2013 and received physical card and welcome notice on 9/12/2013
Wife' I -485 status still shows in Acceptance. Called customer service and they informed they received finger prints for my wife's application and app is in process. CSR asked us to wait for 4 months before contacting again. How do I know her file was connected to my file and are there instances of dependent getting I-485 rejected. Wife has been on H4 since arriving in US and never been out of status.


Thanks for your help

[IJune05]

PD: July 2005 EB2

On a call from Infopass officer, the IO @ NSC told him that since he is out of office in the week of 9/16, he plans to approve or raise RFE before the end of the day- Friday

Well.. no change in case status since Friday...

Can anyone chime in what can I interpret this ?

Thank you,

[vizcard]

Gurus,
Please help !
As posted earlier in the same thread, I received my physical card in mail on 9/12/2013. but my wife's status still shows in Acceptance.

How do I check if my wife's ( dependent) I-485 is connected to my file(Primary). IS it normal procedure for dependent's file getting delayed after primary app if approved?

Both our applications( packaged together and send in one package) reached USCIS Texas service center on 8//1/2013.
Both of us got our fingerprinting done on 8/23/2013 ( early walk-in).
Both got our EAD & AP Combo card on 9/3/2013.
MY I-485 status changed to card production on 9/6/2013 and received physical card and welcome notice on 9/12/2013
Wife' I -485 status still shows in Acceptance. Called customer service and they informed they received finger prints for my wife's application and app is in process. CSR asked us to wait for 4 months before contacting again. How do I know her file was connected to my file and are there instances of dependent getting I-485 rejected. Wife has been on H4 since arriving in US and never been out of status.


Thanks for your help

based on ur info, it looks like ur cases are linked. There are offsets some times. Your wife should see her approval in the next week or so. I wouldn't worry about it just yet.

[chikki77]

based on ur info, it looks like ur cases are linked. There are offsets some times. Your wife should see her approval in the next week or so. I wouldn't worry about it just yet.

Appreciate your reply

Thanks

[raagaa]

Received CPO Mail.

Thanks for all your help . really appreciate your efforts on predicting dates current and other help.

PD: 05/01/2008
TSC
RD : 01/05/2012
No RFE
No SR
Requested Senator Enquiry: No Response
Apporved on 09/16/14

[engineer]

Is 2013 visa over?Pls someone answer.

[RogerFederer]

Is 2013 visa over?Pls someone answer.

There is still chance for visas.. also one can hope for visa already assigned to their case, will get no rfe.. its all draw of luck.. if its ur day, then its urs.. not even you can stop gc posting into ur mailbox

[engineer]

Thx rogerfederer..
Do u think we will see some approvals next week or have to wait until oct. 1?

[longwaitforgc]

Finally after 13+ yrs, I got my physical green card in my hand. I have spent numerous hours on this site during the long wait. Thank you every one who has contributed meaning fully for this site.

PD: 29 may 2008
GC approval email on 17th Sep 2013a
Physical GC in hand on 21st Sep 2013

[RogerFederer]

Thx rogerfederer..
Do u think we will see some approvals next week or have to wait until oct. 1?

IMO we will see a few starting Oct 1st..how many visas available will depend on decisions they take

[indiani]

we might see few thousand approvals as the uscis has to give visas to everyone who is current. I predict following month COD will move to 2006 or earlier.

[pseudonym]

we might see few thousand approvals as the uscis has to give visas to everyone who is current. I predict following month COD will move to 2006 or earlier.

Thanks indiani. Is there a basis for saying that the uscis "has" to give visas to everyone who is current? While I would like it personally if that happens (since I am still waiting for approval as well), isn't there the strong possibility that there will not be enough visa numbers for all those who remain current in Oct, thereby forcing a subset to wait another year to become current again?

[RogerFederer]

I don't think if dates are current means approval.. if there r no available visa numbers, there will b no approvals, unless already a number assigned.

If they go absolute safe route, only a few numbers will b available..

On another note.. received my cards today. It took 8 days for usps to show mercy on me :-) from knoxville to destination.. so 2 day priority is not a guarantee..it could take upto a week or more sometimes..but on good note, all the ppl I talked on customer service were nice, were able to help me..

My journey ends here...can u guys remember the days when 90 cents a gallon..that's what I payed first time I filled my tank...:-)

[Pedro Gonzales]

My journey ends here...can u guys remember the days when 90 cents a gallon..that's what I payed first time I filled my tank...:-)

I remember those days, but I was a B1 visitor then. When I first moved here on an F1 in 2003, prices were just over $1.00 a gallon in NC.

[Pedro Gonzales]

Thanks indiani. Is there a basis for saying that the uscis "has" to give visas to everyone who is current?
I addressed this concern in the EB2-3 Predictions thread (http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/1217-EB2-3-Predictions-(Rather-Calculations)?p=40529#post40529). Since your comment immediately succeeds that post of mine, I take it you've read it but don't buy it? The basis for my assertion are the rules the USCIS follows as set in the INA, which are summarized here (http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/1197-Spillovers-Fall-Across-and-Fall-Down-How-it-Works?p=29436#post29436).

[qesehmk]

Congrats Roger!

I remember 95 cents per gallon in Michigan. $1.65 used to be summer prices and we would complain that that was too high :)
I don't think if dates are current means approval.. if there r no available visa numbers, there will b no approvals, unless already a number assigned.

If they go absolute safe route, only a few numbers will b available..

On another note.. received my cards today. It took 8 days for usps to show mercy on me :-) from knoxville to destination.. so 2 day priority is not a guarantee..it could take upto a week or more sometimes..but on good note, all the ppl I talked on customer service were nice, were able to help me..

My journey ends here...can u guys remember the days when 90 cents a gallon..that's what I payed first time I filled my tank...:-)

[engineer]

I paid 89 cents/g and still waiting .... Just for giggles...:p

[indiani]

Thanks indiani. Is there a basis for saying that the uscis "has" to give visas to everyone who is current? While I would like it personally if that happens (since I am still waiting for approval as well), isn't there the strong possibility that there will not be enough visa numbers for all those who remain current in Oct, thereby forcing a subset to wait another year to become current again?

They don't "have" to give visas but usually they do with exception that annual quota is finished at the end of the fiscal year.

[Eb2_Dec07]

Post GC in hand , how long did it take to receive the I 485 approval receipt from USCIS .

I have not yet received the notice, got card in hand over 30 days ago. Is the receipt required .

[indiani]

Post GC in hand , how long did it take to receive the I 485 approval receipt from USCIS .

I have not yet received the notice, got card in hand over 30 days ago. Is the receipt required .

it is not required but better to have one.
its free and they will send you duplicate copy if you call them for free.

[chikki77]

based on ur info, it looks like ur cases are linked. There are offsets some times. Your wife should see her approval in the next week or so. I wouldn't worry about it just yet.

My Wife's I-485 online status still shows in Acceptance, my application was approved on 9/6/2013. Since it has not been 4 months (USCIS processing time for TSC) since Receipt Date (8/1/2013). Can I take an INFOPASS appointment or is there any other way to get a status update?

Thanks

[Niksammy]

My Wife's I-485 online status still shows in Acceptance, my application was approved on 9/6/2013. Since it has not been 4 months (USCIS processing time for TSC) since Receipt Date (8/1/2013). Can I take an INFOPASS appointment or is there any other way to get a status update?

Thanks

There is not much you can do other than wait - INFO PASS will be totally useless since your application is still within 4 months processing timeframe for i-485. You are one of the very few LUCKY first time i-485 filers from Aug 2013 that got approved in 36 days. There are people with PDs in 2004/2005/2006/2007 who have been waiting without luck (myself included) even with congressional inquiries, SRs, INFOPASS etc.

Just relax, your spouse's green card will get approved at some time - whether it is tomorrow, next month, Jan 2014 or July 2014, even USCIS can not tell (depends on lots of variables).

[pseudonym]

I addressed this concern in the EB2-3 Predictions thread (http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/1217-EB2-3-Predictions-(Rather-Calculations)?p=40529#post40529). Since your comment immediately succeeds that post of mine, I take it you've read it but don't buy it? The basis for my assertion are the rules the USCIS follows as set in the INA, which are summarized here (http://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/1197-Spillovers-Fall-Across-and-Fall-Down-How-it-Works?p=29436#post29436).

Thanks Pedro. Sorry, I had indeed read your post back then, but in the disappointment of the visas getting over around the same time, I did not quite recall the details now. I sure hope what you say does indeed does happen in terms of having the QSP applied in October. However, one of the things you state in your related posts is the assumption that the QSP should be enough to approve everyone that is current provided the demand is <3000. I guess that is the only variable left to be seen and I sure hope your prediction turns out to be true.

[RogerFederer]

My Wife's I-485 online status still shows in Acceptance, my application was approved on 9/6/2013. Since it has not been 4 months (USCIS processing time for TSC) since Receipt Date (8/1/2013). Can I take an INFOPASS appointment or is there any other way to get a status update?

Thanks
There is something missing here.. 36 days approval, is like winning a lottery :-) .. anyways, its very interesting ur spouse didn't get rfe or approval.. basically now this case is bcak in line where it supposed to b in first place. Luck plays its part again when dates become current again