Application Status

[skpanda]

Friends, I received the approval notice I-797 for EAD and AP today for both me and my spouse. Any guess how long it is taking to get green card in hand?


Category----------------: EB2 India
EB2 Priority Date-------: 12/14/2010
Processing Center-------: National Benefits Center (MSC21905*****)
Receipt Date------------: 10/29/2020
Receipt Notice----------: 12/17/2020
Biometrics Date---------: 04/08/2021
I485J Notice------------: 05/25/2021
EAD/AP I797-------------: 08/02/2021
I485--------------------: Pending Approval
EAD/AP Card-------------: Pending
GC in hand--------------: Pending

Update:

1. Spoke to EMMA in USCIS website.
2. EAD/AP was shipped in 7/30/2021
3. My I485 Application was sent to local field office on 6/22/2021
4. A SR cannot be opened since the processing time is 9 months to 23.5 months

Does anybody have any thoughts around, how long it takes for FO to process the Green Card and send it? Can we do anything to expedite the processing at field office?

[mohan_jgd]

Hi Folks,

I had created an SR for my wife and kid's AP hoping to expedite the EAD. The SR acknowledgement email called out to expect a reply by Aug 2 which we have gone past by.

Any inputs on how to track an SR? i can chat with EMMA but wanted to check on experts here for any suggestions before i reach out.

Thanks.

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Thanks!

I have been in the country for 15.5 years (wait in Q for about 10 years)... few more months wait won't make a difference. I just wanna get it over with. I do not know how I will react with GC in hand.

However today having the EAD approvals today... did not mean much... there was not even a second where i stopped to ponder what just happened. Few years ago, my family would be rejoicing for days/weeks/months if we got our EAD.

This wait has left a very bad taste about GC and now it has become like this necessity that we do not care about anymore.

(Fortunately I did not put my life on hold - changed jobs, bought several homes, blessed with wonderful family, lived like normal citizens do except for vote).

Sorry for the vent!

You absolutely did the right thing in moving on with your life! Nothing changed with me even receiving the GC because I have been working where I have been forever. So we did not even celebrate or anything like that, just working on getting our I-9s updated and maybe we will get our SSNs refreshed to new ones without restrictions. It is a big deal to my wife as she works on defense applications and it will open some new doors for her (literally because she was not allowed into some labs because of not being a PR/USC :D).

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Update:

1. Spoke to EMMA in USCIS website.
2. EAD/AP was shipped in 7/30/2021
3. My I485 Application was sent to local field office on 6/22/2021
4. A SR cannot be opened since the processing time is 9 months to 23.5 months

Does anybody have any thoughts around, how long it takes for FO to process the Green Card and send it? Can we do anything to expedite the processing at field office?

Field Office is untouchable unfortunately, by what Emma told me. You cannot call them, email them or ask them for any information unless they call you for an interview or send an RFE etc. So it will be a waiting game.

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Hi Folks,

I had created an SR for my wife and kid's AP hoping to expedite the EAD. The SR acknowledgement email called out to expect a reply by Aug 2 which we have gone past by.

Any inputs on how to track an SR? i can chat with EMMA but wanted to check on experts here for any suggestions before i reach out.

Thanks.

SRs cannot be tracked through online portals (I looked into it while I had SR pending). Only agents in Emma or by phone can let you know the status.

[mohan_jgd]

SRs cannot be tracked through online portals (I looked into it while I had SR pending). Only agents in Emma or by phone can let you know the status.

Thanks. Chatted with Emma and was told the SR is still unassigned. Asked to checked back after 30 calendar days or create another SR.

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Thanks. Chatted with Emma and was told the SR is still unassigned. Asked to checked back after 30 calendar days or create another SR.

You should just go ahead and create another SR for AP and see if they act on it.

[monsieur]

Do you mind sharing your questionnaire how you got these answer from Emma or it was thru Live Agent?

When I ask for status EMMA points me to check status page which doesn't have these details.


Update:

1. Spoke to EMMA in USCIS website.
2. EAD/AP was shipped in 7/30/2021
3. My I485 Application was sent to local field office on 6/22/2021
4. A SR cannot be opened since the processing time is 9 months to 23.5 months

Does anybody have any thoughts around, how long it takes for FO to process the Green Card and send it? Can we do anything to expedite the processing at field office?

[andhraguy]

Do you mind sharing your questionnaire how you got these answer from Emma or it was thru Live Agent?

When I ask for status EMMA points me to check status page which doesn't have these details.

Here is the trick to get live agent immediately
- keep typing "technical difficulties"
-after 3 times you see options to connect to live agent
- choose don't have a receipt number. that's it

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Do you mind sharing your questionnaire how you got these answer from Emma or it was thru Live Agent?

When I ask for status EMMA points me to check status page which doesn't have these details.

Just typing representative also worked every time for me.

[monsieur]

Thanks folks, I thought there is an automated way to find it but if its Live Agent thing then I have long time to go (still waiting for FP appointment)

[skpanda]

You absolutely did the right thing in moving on with your life! Nothing changed with me even receiving the GC because I have been working where I have been forever. So we did not even celebrate or anything like that, just working on getting our I-9s updated and maybe we will get our SSNs refreshed to new ones without restrictions. It is a big deal to my wife as she works on defense applications and it will open some new doors for her (literally because she was not allowed into some labs because of not being a PR/USC :D).

Absolutely!
Happy for you buddy!

[skpanda]

Field Office is untouchable unfortunately, by what Emma told me. You cannot call them, email them or ask them for any information unless they call you for an interview or send an RFE etc. So it will be a waiting game.

Do you know when your application went to field office? If yes, how long did it take for you to get ur GC after that?

[skpanda]

Do you mind sharing your questionnaire how you got these answer from Emma or it was thru Live Agent?

When I ask for status EMMA points me to check status page which doesn't have these details.

I just kept selecting 'other' when it presented with options OR typed LIVE AGENT. The automated EMMA gets tired and sends u to live agent. Sometimes it gives you the option of Live Agent.

For me its trial and error to get to a human.

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Do you know when your application went to field office? If yes, how long did it take for you to get ur GC after that?
I don?t think my file ever went to FO though one agent said it did while all others said it never left NBC. I never got a case update after fingerprints were applied and it directly went to card production. The card itself is shipping out of Corbin KY where I think the printing press is.

[singax]

Category----------------: EB2 India
EB2 Priority Date-------: 1/21/2011
Processing Center-------: National Benefits Center (MSC21906*****)
Receipt Date------------: 10/30/2020
Receipt Notice----------: 1/12/2021
Biometrics Date---------: 02/25/2021
EAD/AP I797-------------: 08/04/2021
I485 Approval-----------: Pending
I131 Approval-----------: Pending
GC in hand--------------: Pending

[mohan_jgd]

You should just go ahead and create another SR for AP and see if they act on it.

Tried it but the system is not allowing me to create another SR for AP. I get the standard message saying "Your case is currently within the posted processing times. An inquiry may not be created at this time". The message doesn't make sense as my case is surely outside it but maybe internally they are checking if an SR already exists for this receipt number.

[greenjpr]

QQ to Experts: My PD is EB2I June 2010 and I am current for the past few months. I applied for I485/EAD/AP in oct 2,2020 and due to the early filing, I got my EAD/AP by MAR2021. I also received my medical RFE in May2021 and I responded by May 27 itself. Still no change on my status.

However the Medical RFA came from Seattle field office [I applied from MBC]. I am from NJ and is it normal to be assigned a different state FO instead of Newark, NJ or some other local field offices?

[aGCHopefull]

QQ to Experts: My PD is EB2I June 2010 and I am current for the past few months. I applied for I485/EAD/AP in oct 2,2020 and due to the early filing, I got my EAD/AP by MAR2021. I also received my medical RFE in May2021 and I responded by May 27 itself. Still no change on my status.

However the Medical RFA came from Seattle field office [I applied from MBC]. I am from NJ and is it normal to be assigned a different state FO instead of Newark, NJ or some other local field offices?

At least at this time, this is happening for most of the filers. The files are being moved around FOs to distribute the load. Lot of NJ (Newark) files have been moved to other states though it is strange to see that it has gone to Seattle. I am sure Seattle would have its ton of load too.

[skpanda]

Update:

1. Spoke to EMMA in USCIS website.
2. EAD/AP was shipped in 7/30/2021
3. My I485 Application was sent to local field office on 6/22/2021
4. A SR cannot be opened since the processing time is 9 months to 23.5 months

Does anybody have any thoughts around, how long it takes for FO to process the Green Card and send it? Can we do anything to expedite the processing at field office?

All,
Update - Received the EAD/AP cards today. Waiting for update on GC... hope it comes before 30th september (end of this fiscal year).

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

All,
Update - Received the EAD/AP cards today. Waiting for update on GC... hope it comes before 30th september (end of this fiscal year).

I don't have any proper evidence to back up this claim, but I have read in multiple places before that Sep 30th is not a hard deadline to stop issuing GCs for the fiscal year and any applications that are near adjudication do get approved in the first couple of weeks of October. I don't know what will come of the lawsuit that Siskind filed, but it could also impact things if they do obtain a ruling on that. Remains to be seen if they will allow class action or will it be narrow and only cover the plaintiffs on the original suit.

[skpanda]

I don't have any proper evidence to back up this claim, but I have read in multiple places before that Sep 30th is not a hard deadline to stop issuing GCs for the fiscal year and any applications that are near adjudication do get approved in the first couple of weeks of October. I don't know what will come of the lawsuit that Siskind filed, but it could also impact things if they do obtain a ruling on that. Remains to be seen if they will allow class action or will it be narrow and only cover the plaintiffs on the original suit.

Thanks.. is there a portal where we can track the progress of the lawsuit. I was one of the plaintiffs in the 2015 visagate lawsuit for the Oct Visa bulletin. Nothing came out of it. Do not think anything will happen this around. Hope I am wrong.

[gammaray]

All,
Update - Received the EAD/AP cards today. Waiting for update on GC... hope it comes before 30th september (end of this fiscal year).

Guessing the gc will follow in the next 2-4 weeks, if not earlier (if the interview is waived).

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Thanks.. is there a portal where we can track the progress of the lawsuit. I was one of the plaintiffs in the 2015 visagate lawsuit for the Oct Visa bulletin. Nothing came out of it. Do not think anything will happen this around. Hope I am wrong.

Just keep monitoring gsiskind's twitter as he usually posts updates on the cases that he is involved with directly. There are some signs that maybe a judge will reserve visas but I am not sure of the confidence level in that. Also there is a matter of can there be class action allowed or will the ruling only benefit those who signed up for the lawsuit. I doubt if they will provide class relief because every I-485 case is adjudicated on it's own merit. I think DV case was a bit different because there they have a lottery and people who won the lottery essentially have a reserved visa spot which is not the case for EB. The EB allocation happens only after all the FP, background check, RFE/responses are completed and a visa is requested from DoS.

[abcx13]

I don't have any proper evidence to back up this claim, but I have read in multiple places before that Sep 30th is not a hard deadline to stop issuing GCs for the fiscal year and any applications that are near adjudication do get approved in the first couple of weeks of October. I don't know what will come of the lawsuit that Siskind filed, but it could also impact things if they do obtain a ruling on that. Remains to be seen if they will allow class action or will it be narrow and only cover the plaintiffs on the original suit.

I have also read that.

The Siskind lawsuit is asking for reservation as a class, not just for their Plaintiffs. The Judge can order reservation if he wants.

See this Twitter thread (https://twitter.com/wstock215/status/1423334943460052995) from today also. Stock and Bier are both right.

[Noesis]

Did anyone who downgraded got their 485 approved? I have heard of only the straight cases getting greened so far. Just trying to keep the optimism alive.

[abcx13]

I don't have any proper evidence to back up this claim, but I have read in multiple places before that Sep 30th is not a hard deadline to stop issuing GCs for the fiscal year and any applications that are near adjudication do get approved in the first couple of weeks of October. I don't know what will come of the lawsuit that Siskind filed, but it could also impact things if they do obtain a ruling on that. Remains to be seen if they will allow class action or will it be narrow and only cover the plaintiffs on the original suit.

Can you send me a link to where you've read or heard that? I think CO has also said that - about using numbers in October.

It might be able to help with lawsuit if USCIS/DoS already use numbers past Sept 30.

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Can you send me a link to where you've read or heard that? I think CO has also said that - about using numbers in October.

It might be able to help with lawsuit if USCIS/DoS already use numbers past Sept 30.

I think that's it! I believe Charlie had mentioned it on one of his chats almost as a passing comment.

[abcx13]

I think that's it! I believe Charlie had mentioned it on one of his chats almost as a passing comment.

I listened to the three last Chats With Charlie at 2x speed yesterday and couldn't find it. Do you happenen to remember which one? I guess I could listen to two more...

If they can 'hold' numbers into October, then why not into November?

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

I listened to the three last Chats With Charlie at 2x speed yesterday and couldn't find it. Do you happenen to remember which one? I guess I could listen to two more...

If they can 'hold' numbers into October, then why not into November?

Sorry I can't remember which session it was in unless there are transcripts somewhere. Again, since it's not a rule, it will likely be completely discretionary. As soon as it becomes a rule, there will be people ready to sue based on some reason or another.

[sudebusa]

My I-485 case status has been updated to "Request for initial evidence sent" but I am waiting for the RFE mail. Does USCIS explicitly specify where to send the response or the address that appears on the top is the default address to send the response?

I have never seen an RFE letter, so it's completely an unchartered area. :)

Thanks.

[inspired_p]

My I-485 case status has been updated to "Request for initial evidence sent" but I am waiting for the RFE mail. Does USCIS explicitly specify where to send the response or the address that appears on the top is the default address to send the response?

I have never seen an RFE letter, so it's completely an unchartered area. :)

Thanks.

The RFE we received has the address to send. the response.

[skpanda]

Friends,
I had applied AOS in Oct 2020 (See my signature for details). I had sent the medical form I693 already with the application. However I have received RFE today from the local office asking me to send the medical form again?

Is this normal?
Why can't they just see the form with the package? I thought it was valid for atleast 1 year?

I will of course respond to RFE but it seems its just a waste of time and delaying tactic by USCIS.

Any thoughts on this will be appreciated!

Thanks!

[sudebusa]

The RFE we received has the address to send. the response.

Thank you!

Here is what I have received - The RFE letter has asked to send the "ORIGINAL" letter back with the requested evidence and asked to ".... send the response TO THIS ADDRESS" and there is no address mentioned after that sentence. I am interpreting that I need to send the response back to the address mentioned on the top right corner of the letter on page 1.

The letter is from SRC and the top right corner has Irving, TX address.

Also, today I received the letters for my spouse and son, not mine, even though their online status was updated on 8/2 where as mine was updated on 7/30. Not sure why mine is still not there.

[gc_dedo]

Guys,
Did anybody who recently got EAD for their dependents, receive SS card also? I believe, I had selected option to issue SSN also, while filling in form I-765, but it has been 2 weeks since EAD approved and I still haven't received SS card. So, before approaching SSA office, I want to find out how long is it taking to receive SS card?

[JoinedToAsk]

I received my I-485J receipt after receiving EAD. :D Does anyone know whether that's good or bad? Not sure whether I-485J receipt is sent by the officer in MSC or FO. Does anyone know?

PD: Nov 2010 EB2I.

[aGCHopefull]

I received my I-485J receipt after receiving EAD. :D Does anyone know whether that's good or bad? Not sure whether I-485J receipt is sent by the officer in MSC or FO. Does anyone know?

PD: Nov 2010 EB2I.

That means your file is now active at some FO. Had you sent your medicals with initial filing, if not then you may also receive RFE soon.

Could you please confirm your notice date and part of receipt #( like MSC21903X)

[JoinedToAsk]

That means your file is now active at some FO. Had you sent your medicals with initial filing, if not then you may also receive RFE soon.

Could you please confirm your notice date and part of receipt #( like MSC21903X)

Thank you. I had sent medicals with my application. Any idea when I can expect i-485?

So, I am not sure whether I will receive RFE. Notice date is Feb 2021. Receipt is MSC 21907X.

[JoinedToAsk]

Is anyone here from Boston FO?

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

I received my I-485J receipt after receiving EAD. :D Does anyone know whether that's good or bad? Not sure whether I-485J receipt is sent by the officer in MSC or FO. Does anyone know?

PD: Nov 2010 EB2I.

I never got any indication that my file ever moved from MSC to a field office for adjudication. My case status went from fingerprints received to card production ordered after about 9 months. All communications, including the sender's address on the physical GC came from MSC.

[zzman27]

i dont think it means anything, its pretty random, i got 485J receipt end of june but no medical rfe or any other movement yet. my receipt # is MSC 21905 and i know a couple of people in company with receipt # and pd after me got their rfe last week.

[skpanda]

Friends,
I had applied AOS in Oct 2020 (See my signature for details). I had sent the medical form I693 already with the application. However I have received RFE today from the local office asking me to send the medical form again?

Is this normal?
Why can't they just see the form with the package? I thought it was valid for atleast 1 year?

I will of course respond to RFE but it seems its just a waste of time and delaying tactic by USCIS.

Any thoughts on this will be appreciated!

Thanks!

Friends.. any inputs on this?

[srimurthy]

Guys,
Did anybody who recently got EAD for their dependents, receive SS card also? I believe, I had selected option to issue SSN also, while filling in form I-765, but it has been 2 weeks since EAD approved and I still haven't received SS card. So, before approaching SSA office, I want to find out how long is it taking to receive SS card?

If you have opted to get the SSN you will get it in mail.
I got my dependents SSN after a month after the EAD got approved. EAD and AP themselves are delivered after a month after SR was raised.

[ImmiGiveMe]

Most of the approvals from SRC is of FY12.. when the SRC's "Receipt date for a case inquiry" is May 30, 2016, shouldn't all the cases before this date be eligible for expedite request (if one available for I-485)?.. Also shouldn't all the folks before this date have written to their congressmen/senator starting of the FY 2021 and have some traction on their cases?

[krisswaves]

Friends.. any inputs on this?

This happened to my friend recently, he was suspecting the doctor office used an expired/old form for the medicals last year. However he couldn't get any confirmation on this. He submitted the medicals again with the same doctor with new date to save time and got the 485 approved in just few days after responding to RFE, this time he did make sure they are using a valid form.

[ak7419]

Most of the approvals from SRC is of FY12.. when the SRC's "Receipt date for a case inquiry" is May 30, 2016, shouldn't all the cases before this date be eligible for expedite request (if one available for I-485)?.. Also shouldn't all the folks before this date have written to their congressmen/senator starting of the FY 2021 and have some traction on their cases?

I am still waiting for an RFE and filed in 2012 with a 2009 PD. At this point approvals are random (SRC is not going by PD or RD) purely based on officer's caseload and discretion. Some expedite requests are getting scrutinized while others are not. Some genuine requests are getting denied while other frivolous requests are getting approved....again this is at officer's discretion.

I have tried all available channels - opened multiple service requests, contacted congresswoman, contacted ombudsman and proactively submitted all the required documents to be documentarily qualified yet I do not see any traction on my case. FYI - I am current since November 2020.

BTW, there are bunch of others like (2009/2012) who are waiting for an RFE.

[ImmiGiveMe]

Sorry to hear that 'ak7419'. I was under the impression that the involvement of congressmen/senator will sure move the case when it's receipt date is way past the "Receipt date for a case inquiry".

[skpanda]

This happened to my friend recently, he was suspecting the doctor office used an expired/old form for the medicals last year. However he couldn't get any confirmation on this. He submitted the medicals again with the same doctor with new date to save time and got the 485 approved in just few days after responding to RFE, this time he did make sure they are using a valid form.

Thank you! I checked and they were using the correct form date. (I have a copy of the form)

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

I am still waiting for an RFE and filed in 2012 with a 2009 PD. At this point approvals are random (SRC is not going by PD or RD) purely based on officer's caseload and discretion. Some expedite requests are getting scrutinized while others are not. Some genuine requests are getting denied while other frivolous requests are getting approved....again this is at officer's discretion.

I have tried all available channels - opened multiple service requests, contacted congresswoman, contacted ombudsman and proactively submitted all the required documents to be documentarily qualified yet I do not see any traction on my case. FYI - I am current since November 2020.

BTW, there are bunch of others like (2009/2012) who are waiting for an RFE.

Wow, that is just nuts man! Sorry that you are having to go through this. Looks like you have tried everything possible!

[qesehmk]

I am still waiting for an RFE and filed in 2012 with a 2009 PD. At this point approvals are random (SRC is not going by PD or RD) purely based on officer's caseload and discretion. Some expedite requests are getting scrutinized while others are not. Some genuine requests are getting denied while other frivolous requests are getting approved....again this is at officer's discretion.

I have tried all available channels - opened multiple service requests, contacted congresswoman, contacted ombudsman and proactively submitted all the required documents to be documentarily qualified yet I do not see any traction on my case. FYI - I am current since November 2020.

BTW, there are bunch of others like (2009/2012) who are waiting for an RFE.

Looking at your PD I believe your case has some issue. This is not normal.

If I were you I would specifically request the congresswoman and/or the senior senator of the state (to request USCIS to reveal what is holding it back) while also opening up an FOIA request directly with USCIS.

[ak7419]

Looking at your PD I believe your case has some issue. This is not normal.

If I were you I would specifically request the congresswoman and/or the senior senator of the state (to request USCIS to reveal what is holding it back) while also opening up an FOIA request directly with USCIS.

Q, it is not only my case but there are a bunch of TSC filers waiting on RFE. TSC is somehow occupied adjudicating other cases or there is no logic behind how they are picking up cases for processing.

[ImmiGiveMe]

'ak7419', if you think that you are documentarily qualified and have been in good with all your immigration statuses (F1, H1B...) and no DUI's.. As 'Mr.Q' suggested you should have the USCIS reveal what is holding them back (through FOIA or congressional request).

[qesehmk]

Q, it is not only my case but there are a bunch of TSC filers waiting on RFE. TSC is somehow occupied adjudicating other cases or there is no logic behind how they are picking up cases for processing.
I hope you are right. All the best.

[sling10]

There is an updated version of the form 485. This is the update on the USCIS website :

Edition Date
03/29/21. Starting Oct. 13, 2021, we will only accept the 03/29/21 edition. Until then, you can use the 03/10/21 edition. You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.

My question : If I am able to submit 485 before Oct. 13, 2021, can I use the new version of the form OR the new version of the form cannot be used before Oct. 13, 2021?

I do not see the old version of the form on the USCIS website anymore, but, I had it downloaded locally before.

[aGCHopefull]

Guys,
Did anybody who recently got EAD for their dependents, receive SS card also? I believe, I had selected option to issue SSN also, while filling in form I-765, but it has been 2 weeks since EAD approved and I still haven't received SS card. So, before approaching SSA office, I want to find out how long is it taking to receive SS card?

For me, it came exactly after 4 weeks (NJ). So probably wait for 2 more weeks.

[gten20]

Thank you! I checked and they were using the correct form date. (I have a copy of the form)

My guess is that your medical forms were misplaced or not processed properly. Just respond to the RFE as quickly as you can. You can go back to the same doctor and get the Medical forms again. Usually they only charge a small fee for follow up Medicals.

[sling10]

There is an updated version of the form 485. This is the update on the USCIS website :

Edition Date
03/29/21. Starting Oct. 13, 2021, we will only accept the 03/29/21 edition. Until then, you can use the 03/10/21 edition. You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.

My question : If I am able to submit 485 before Oct. 13, 2021, can I use the new version of the form OR the new version of the form cannot be used before Oct. 13, 2021?

I do not see the old version of the form on the USCIS website anymore, but, I had it downloaded locally before.

Can someone please help me out on the above query ?

Also, I cannot save the new version of the form after entering the data in it. I could do that on the previous version. Any pointers on how to resolve the issue ?

[getsaby]

Congratulations. We all will be waiting to hear good news in one month's time.

Morning

Derivative I485 was approved on 8/9/2021 by the Local ASC office (@Newark, NJ), approval happened within 10 days once they received the I-693.
Waiting for the actual card now.

Thanks all!

[aGCHopefull]

Morning

Derivative I485 was approved on 8/9/2021 by the Local ASC office (@Newark, NJ), approval happened within 10 days once they received the I-693.
Waiting for the actual card now.

Thanks all!

Congrats getsaby!

[JoinedToAsk]

Is anyone here from Boston or Lawrence FO?

[LightAtEndOfTunnel]

My case status is updated to "Response To USCIS' Request For Evidence Was Received". It is same as RFE-R or should I expect another formal document from USCIS confirming receipt for RFE.

[dosaman]

Is anyone here from Boston or Lawrence FO?

I am from Boston FO. MSC21902 series.

[aGCHopefull]

I am from Boston FO. MSC21902 series.

Do you mind sharing current status on your 485 application?

[dosaman]

Do you mind sharing current status on your 485 application?

Here is my status:

Received Date: 10/23/2020
Biometrics: 03/23/2021
EAD Approved: 07/14/2021
I-485: Pending (Medicals submitted with my application)

[aGCHopefull]

Here is my status:

Received Date: 10/23/2020
Biometrics: 03/23/2021
EAD Approved: 07/14/2021
I-485: Pending (Medicals submitted with my application)

thanks, have you received 485j receipt notice?

[JoinedToAsk]

thanks, have you received 485j receipt notice?

What's the significance of 485J? I'm asking because I received it about a month ago, and nothing has happened since then.

[dosaman]

thanks, have you received 485j receipt notice?

My I-485J was approved on 07/16/2021. Received the receipt notice for that form in May.

[maverick2010]

I recently changed my job and my new company has agreed to interfile I-485J. Meanwhile, I got receipt from USCIS for my old I-485J couple of weeks.

While interfiling I-485J, what documents I have the attach along with new I-485J? please let me know.

Thank you!

[aGCHopefull]

My I-485J was approved on 07/16/2021. Received the receipt notice for that form in May.

I believe then you should get approval in week or two.

[aGCHopefull]

What's the significance of 485J? I'm asking because I received it about a month ago, and nothing has happened since then.
The general trend I have seen is that once the file has been moved to FO, FO generates 485 J receipt, then in 2-3 weeks send RFE for medicals. if medicals were submitted with application then usually approval in 3-5 weeks. the timing may vary from case to case but steps should be same.

[bikenlalan]

I recently changed my job and my new company has agreed to interfile I-485J. Meanwhile, I got receipt from USCIS for my old I-485J couple of weeks.

While interfiling I-485J, what documents I have the attach along with new I-485J? please let me know.

Thank you!

Isn't your new I-485j filed by your company attorney? They should know what to attach. But for the most part, a cover letter explaining what you are sending, the actual document that you want to interfile, I-485 receipt notice, and a copy of passport biographic page should be enough.

[sling10]

Gurus -

Planning to self file my 485 in October for me and my spouse (H4, H4-EAD) and son (H4). Just a little confused if the form I-134 needs to be submitted along with the form I-485. Anyone filed their 485 recently with dependents on H4 has any idea on this ?

Part of the confusion is due to the below statement that I read on Reddy & Neumann website :

Applications for derivative applicants (spouse and children under 21 years old) must include the I-134 Affidavit of Support. ? this form is completed and signed by principal applicant, confirming that s/he has the means to financially support the derivative applicant(s).

[gammaray]

The general trend I have seen is that once the file has been moved to FO, FO generates 485 J receipt, then in 2-3 weeks send RFE for medicals. if medicals were submitted with application then usually approval in 3-5 weeks. the timing may vary from case to case but steps should be same.

This approximation is anecdotally accurate. I received the medical RFE from the FO exactly 3 weeks after receiving the I485J receipt.

[gammaray]

Just to add, the RFE letter included the statement "Submit this information as soon as possible in order for your case to be considered for visa allocation within this fiscal year which concludes on Sep 30, 2021"

Unless the statement is standard language, it appears to be positive and a concerted USCIS effort to maximize gc issuance before FY 2022 begins. Of course some of the 2009/2010 folks still waiting may disagree.

[dosaman]

Just to add, the RFE letter included the statement "Submit this information as soon as possible in order for your case to be considered for visa allocation within this fiscal year which concludes on Sep 30, 2021"

Unless the statement is standard language, it appears to be positive and a concerted USCIS effort to maximize gc issuance before FY 2022 begins. Of course some of the 2009/2010 folks still waiting may disagree.

I would have to disagree. That statement is just for show(possibly to use in any upcoming trials) and I don't think they really mean any of that. My PD is July, 2010 and have been current for several months and my case is as straightforward as it can get and is documentarily complete. I believe there are thousand of others like me waiting for several months after getting current and with documentarily complete applications and yet many of us will not get our GCs this fiscal year.

[JoinedToAsk]

The general trend I have seen is that once the file has been moved to FO, FO generates 485 J receipt, then in 2-3 weeks send RFE for medicals. if medicals were submitted with application then usually approval in 3-5 weeks. the timing may vary from case to case but steps should be same.

Thanks. My I485J receipt shows that the letter was sent from MSC. Is it sent by local FO? Also, Emma told me that my file is with MSC and not FO. Not sure what's going on with USCIS.

[dosaman]

Thanks. My I485J receipt shows that the letter was sent from MSC. Is it sent by local FO? Also, Emma told me that my file is with MSC and not FO. Not sure what's going on with USCIS.

I-485J receipt and approval usually come from MSC - mine came from MSC. Final adjudication is usually done at a field office. It is funny to see how many different answers you can get from Emma live agents. I wonder where and how they pull the information from! I chatted with 7 live agents so far. Here are the responses I got:

1. 2 said the application never moved from MSC
2. 3 said the application is at Boston FO
3. 1 said the application moved from MSC to Boston FO in July
4. 1 said it is not possible to get application transfer details

[Mgajsk]

Hi guys ,
I am in a conundrum here.
I changed employers based on asc21 after 200 days of filing 485.
My new employer is in process of submitting 485J. However, I received a notice to appear for the interview.

Supplement J form is mentioned as one of the required documents if necessary.

Can I just take the supplement J form with me along for the interview or mail it to lockbox as usual?
Any issues I need to be aware of during the interview?

[gammaray]

I would have to disagree. That statement is just for show(possibly to use in any upcoming trials) and I don't think they really mean any of that. My PD is July, 2010 and have been current for several months and my case is as straightforward as it can get and is documentarily complete. I believe there are thousand of others like me waiting for several months after getting current and with documentarily complete applications and yet many of us will not get our GCs this fiscal year.

Umm I understand the disgruntlement but USCIS using a statement on a notice for "show" or legal purposes doesn't have any logic or make any sense. As I was insinuating, 2009/2010 folks seem to be behind the more recent PD's for some reason. Coupled with backlogs at local FO's there could be multiple reasons why an individual application that's documentarily complete hasn't been processed yet.

In any case as I expect with most people that are current and documentarily complete, the application will be approved shortly (even if you have been waiting for 3-4 months). It only takes an instance for the status update to come through and could happen anytime.

[gammaray]

Also, USCIS just updated the policy to allow medicals to be valid up to 4 years and the recommendation is for everyone to file I-693 with the I-485. I don't think there is any doubt of positive changes occurring at USCIS with the new administration.

[monsieur]

Medicals are valid for 4yr now - https://twitter.com/USCIS/status/1425896472034398210

Lip Service or genuine attempt ?? --> https://twitter.com/USCIS/status/1425904519511224324

Requesting to file 693 (Medicals) and 485 together --> https://twitter.com/USCIS/status/1425904517057556480

[aGCHopefull]

Also, USCIS just updated the policy to allow medicals to be valid up to 4 years and the recommendation is for everyone to file I-693 with the I-485. I don't think there is any doubt of positive changes occurring at USCIS with the new administration.

Seems like this change is temporary for a month and half based on following statement.

Effective August 12, 2021, USCIS is temporarily extending the validity period of an otherwise valid Form I-693 in cases where:
The civil surgeon?s signature on Form I-693 is dated no more than 60 days before the applicant files Form I-485;
No more than 4 years have passed since the date of the civil surgeon?s signature; and
The decision on Form I-485 is issued on or before September 30, 2021.

SO if I am reading it correctly, this should help all who have submitted medicals in last 4 years. Is that correct?

[aGCHopefull]

Question on medicals

While I am waiting for RFE, can I get the medical test done though?

Let's say if I go for a test on 8/13 and civil surgeon signs it by 8/20, Can that report be used even if medical RFE comes after 60 days from signing date?

Just trying to make sure I have paper work ready. Please let me know.

[gammaray]

Question on medicals

While I am waiting for RFE, can I get the medical test done though?

Let's say if I go for a test on 8/13 and civil surgeon signs it by 8/20, Can that report be used even if medical RFE comes after 60 days from signing date?

Just trying to make sure I have paper work ready. Please let me know.

Yes, it's no more than 60 days prior to the submission of I-485. Nothing to do with the RFE. However, I think people have reported that some doctors require to see the RFE to conduct the examination --- which doesn't make sense since folks that file medicals concurrently with I-485 don't have an RFE.

[aGCHopefull]

Medicals are valid for 4yr now - https://twitter.com/USCIS/status/1425896472034398210

Lip Service or genuine attempt ?? --> https://twitter.com/USCIS/status/1425904519511224324

Requesting to file 693 (Medicals) and 485 together --> https://twitter.com/USCIS/status/1425904517057556480

IMO, it could have been better to allow filing I693 without waiting for RFE

[monsieur]

IMO, it could have been better to allow filing I693 without waiting for RFE

My expectation from USCIS is NIL so I will take it what they give to me. With 4yr medical extension atleast they showed glimmer of conscience. In Ideal world they would have come out and said

* Medicals valid for 4 yrs
* You can send yours without RFE (We are accepting Interfile)
* Medicals submitted in FY-2021 is valid for 4 yrs.


My wish list :smile:

[idliman]

Hi guys ,
I am in a conundrum here.
I changed employers based on asc21 after 200 days of filing 485.
My new employer is in process of submitting 485J. However, I received a notice to appear for the interview.

Supplement J form is mentioned as one of the required documents if necessary.

Can I just take the supplement J form with me along for the interview or mail it to lockbox as usual?
Any issues I need to be aware of during the interview?
If they are asking you to appear for interview you can take I-485 Supp J to the interview. Most of the times, interview is cancelled and GC directly issued or they send an RFE. If that is the case, you need to figure out where your case file is before sending I-485 Supp J.

Most attorneys will advise you to bring I-485 Supp J to interview to confirm bonafide job offer or job portability.

[skpanda]

Just to add, the RFE letter included the statement "Submit this information as soon as possible in order for your case to be considered for visa allocation within this fiscal year which concludes on Sep 30, 2021"

Unless the statement is standard language, it appears to be positive and a concerted USCIS effort to maximize gc issuance before FY 2022 begins. Of course some of the 2009/2010 folks still waiting may disagree.

I do not have this language in my RFE. Strange.

[getsaby]

Congrats getsaby!

We received the physical card yesterday for Derivative, her 9 ​years journey ended while mine 19 yrs.

Thank you all for your support and guidance!

[dosaman]

Umm I understand the disgruntlement but USCIS using a statement on a notice for "show" or legal purposes doesn't have any logic or make any sense. As I was insinuating, 2009/2010 folks seem to be behind the more recent PD's for some reason. Coupled with backlogs at local FO's there could be multiple reasons why an individual application that's documentarily complete hasn't been processed yet.

In any case as I expect with most people that are current and documentarily complete, the application will be approved shortly (even if you have been waiting for 3-4 months). It only takes an instance for the status update to come through and could happen anytime.

USCIS have been getting some negative press lately in Washington Post and Wall Street Journal(has never happened before) and add to that the upcoming lawsuits from Siskind and others - USCIS have to provide an illusion of improving their EB processing - hence their recent announcements and the statement that you saw on your RFE. This is more about saving their a* than it is about any meaningful improvements in their processing speeds. Huh, they can't even process applications that have unexpired medicals - what is the point in extending the expiry date to 4 years? Bottom line, they are still going to waste well north of 100,000 Visas with several thousands of documentarily complete applications among them.

As bad as my situation is I can't but help wonder about the hundreds of applicants from 2012 who are still waiting after 9 years. Even in countries that are bureaucratic nightmares a turnaround time of 9+ years on an application would be considered unacceptable.

[gammaray]

USCIS have been getting some negative press lately in Washington Post and Wall Street Journal(has never happened before) and add to that the upcoming lawsuits from Siskind and others - USCIS have to provide an illusion of improving their EB processing - hence their recent announcements and the statement that you saw on your RFE. This is more about saving their a* than it is about any meaningful improvements in their processing speeds. Huh, they can't even process applications that have unexpired medicals - what is the point in extending the expiry date to 4 years? Bottom line, they are still going to waste well north of 100,000 Visas with several thousands of documentarily complete applications among them.

As bad as my situation is I can't but help wonder about the hundreds of applicants from 2012 who are still waiting after 9 years. Even in countries that are bureaucratic nightmares a turnaround time of 9+ years on an application would be considered unacceptable.

I'll have to disagree. There are definitely improvements being made and not a PR stunt, including unofficially waiving off interviews even though the Trump era memo is still in effect. As with all government agencies changes take time -- but with a new administration and USCIS director, it will happen.

The point of extending it to 4 years is logical -- to reduce having to send additional rfe's out which snowballs into additional delays -- irrespective of whether existing applications with valid medicals are approved or not.

As for the waiting times, I am not going to defend USCIS but that is more to do with the law that causes backlogs than the inefficiencies in the system. The 9 years is a result of backlogs and not due to USCIS inefficiencies. Can the system be streamlined so it cuts processing time by months, ofcourse, but there is no country on Earth that has the number of immigrants coming in than this country and as inefficient as USCIS may be, I can't imagine any other country even remotely being close to handling the number of immigrants that this country sees.

[dosaman]

I'll have to disagree. There are definitely improvements being made and not a PR stunt, including unofficially waiving off interviews even though the Trump era memo is still in effect. As with all government agencies changes take time -- but with a new administration and USCIS director, it will happen.

The point of extending it to 4 years is logical -- to reduce having to send additional rfe's out which snowballs into additional delays -- irrespective of whether existing applications with valid medicals are approved or not.

As for the waiting times, I am not going to defend USCIS but that is more to do with the law that causes backlogs than the inefficiencies in the system. The 9 years is a result of backlogs and not due to USCIS inefficiencies. Can the system be streamlined so it cuts processing time by months, ofcourse, but there is no country on Earth that has the number of immigrants coming in than this country and as inefficient as USCIS may be, I can't imagine any other country even remotely being close to handling the number of immigrants that this country sees.

Sorry but this is a PR stunt. Generating RFEs is not where they spend most of their time. RFE generation is mostly automated and requires minimal human intervention. It is in adjudicating EAD/AP applications that they waste most of their time. A more meaningful step to reducing inefficiency would have been to temporarily suspend EAD/AP processing for all the documentarily qualified applications. You won't believe the number of instances where they spent so much time adjudicating EAD/AP for documentarily complete applications gathering dust somewhere. It is disconcerting to see cases where people receive GC the very next day or within a week or two after getting EAD.

And the so called improvements have not translated into improved approval numbers so far. They had one of the worst 2nd quarter metrics in spite of waiving most interviews. The ultimate proof for process improvements would be in the numbers and my guess is they will not hit more than 140-160K this fiscal year. Those numbers are not substantially better than numbers from any of the previous years.

[shaks2020]

Hello all, (especially interfilers)

I am June 2010 EB2, and haven't received RFE for medicals and I am planning to interfile my medicals. The Emma live agent told me the case is transferred to a local F0 on June 19.

Is it better to send the 1-693 sealed envelope to the field office OR should I send it to the MSC ? Any ideas ?

Shaks

[inspired_p]

Hello all, (especially interfilers)

I am June 2010 EB2, and haven't received RFE for medicals and I am planning to interfile my medicals. The Emma live agent told me the case is transferred to a local F0 on June 19.

Is it better to send the 1-693 sealed envelope to the field office OR should I send it to the MSC ? Any ideas ?

Shaks

I do not have an answer. We received RFE for the derivation application from the FO , we sent the interfile request to the same address as the RFE response.
I have been told that EMMA - live agent can track and let you know where the application currently resides physically but its a hit or miss. You can try that.

[gammaray]

Sorry but this is a PR stunt. Generating RFEs is not where they spend most of their time. RFE generation is mostly automated and requires minimal human intervention. It is in adjudicating EAD/AP applications that they waste most of their time. A more meaningful step to reducing inefficiency would have been to temporarily suspend EAD/AP processing for all the documentarily qualified applications. You won't believe the number of instances where they spent so much time adjudicating EAD/AP for documentarily complete applications gathering dust somewhere. It is disconcerting to see cases where people receive GC the very next day or within a week or two after getting EAD.

And the so called improvements have not translated into improved approval numbers so far. They had one of the worst 2nd quarter metrics in spite of waiving most interviews. The ultimate proof for process improvements would be in the numbers and my guess is they will not hit more than 140-160K this fiscal year. Those numbers are not substantially better than numbers from any of the previous years.

That is just contradictory -- Saying EADs are causing documentarily complete applications to gather dust then next statement is that the people are getting gc's right after the EAD is approved. An EAD application takes a few minutes to review and does not hold up anything as evidenced by the previous statement. Is it a waste of plastic and resources? Sure. The bottlenecks to I-485 processing exists elsewhere in the process.

False argument to say improvements have not translated into improved numbers. Q1 and some of Q2 was still the old administration and COVID was still a thing with USCIS operating at 60-70 percent capacity. New administration fully took over and vaccinations started late Q2 into Q3. In any case when half of the year was affected by a pandemic with reduced workforce, reaching numbers similar to a normal year is indeed an improvement.

[dosaman]

That is just contradictory -- Saying EADs are causing documentarily complete applications to gather dust then next statement is that the people are getting gc's right after the EAD is approved. An EAD application takes a few minutes to review and does not hold up anything as evidenced by the previous statement. Is it a waste of plastic and resources? Sure. The bottlenecks to I-485 processing exists elsewhere in the process.

False argument to say improvements have not translated into improved numbers. Q1 and some of Q2 was still the old administration and COVID was still a thing with USCIS operating at 60-70 percent capacity. New administration fully took over and vaccinations started late Q2 into Q3. In any case when half of the year was affected by a pandemic with reduced workforce, reaching numbers similar to a normal year is indeed an improvement.

The statements are not contradictory. Many I-485 applications are gathering dust because they don't have enough manpower to work on adjudicating I-485 applications.

It does not take a few minutes to process EAD/AP. It takes approximately 12 minutes to process EAD and 15 minutes to process AP - an average of 27 minutes for EAD+AP. This does not include the time wasted on printing and mailing EAD cards and notification letters. The main bottleneck for I-485 processing is lack of manpower. Just removing EAD/AP processing alone would free up an enormous amount of their manpower and divert them to I-485 adjudication. This is what David Bier and many others have been advocating for a long time. According to David Bier's calculations eliminating EAD/AP processing alone would result in an additional 80000 GCs per year.

https://www.cato.org/blog/eight-ideas-speed-green-card-processing

If USCIS had been serious about minimizing visa wastage they would have eliminated this step at least temporarily and diverted that manpower to process I-485 applications. Instead of meaningful steps like that they come up with bogus statements about RFEs as if that is their main bottleneck.

[3nov10]

Any updates from folks who have applied for 485 this year in the last few months.
I am asking because my perm is just about certified after a job change and wondering how long will it take for EAD/GC Approval.

My PD is Dec 2010 as my Handle.

I applied last week. I 140 in premium, approved yesterday. No receipt for anything. Got the receipt for AOS via Emma chat. Receipts for ead and ap were not available.

[monsieur]

Or Or Or folks just have skipped EAD + AP and instead should have filed 485 with medicals. You can't cherry pick with hindsight. Based on past experience folks opted for EAD + AP and now its biting back.

Remember this is a govt entity which runs on rules and regulation. If they don't exists it will be anarchy. If forms are filled and requested doc - USCIS will process it in that order.

[Jp123456]

I was in the same boat last October, my lawyer filed concurrently with 140 premium to Texas service center. but they sent all of the package to the USCIS address that handles regular 140.i didn't know till I got the rejection. After 5 months USCIS rejected claiming application filed at the wrong address. in the meantime my PERM had expired. I had to start from scratch but in the meantime my employer and the law firm involved ombudsman and local congressman and filed 140 again . somehow I got it approved couple of weeks back.... so please take necessary precautions about filing in the correct location. I got a chance to apply for AOS after 19 trying years but still might be a painful journey like what happened with my case. I registered here after seeing your post just to make sure you or anyone else don't have to face same issue like me.

[dosaman]

Or Or Or folks just have skipped EAD + AP and instead should have filed 485 with medicals. You can't cherry pick with hindsight. Based on past experience folks opted for EAD + AP and now its biting back.

Remember this is a govt entity which runs on rules and regulation. If they don't exists it will be anarchy. If forms are filled and requested doc - USCIS will process it in that order.

USCIS and "process in order" should never go together in the same sentence. If there is one word that characterizes this organization it is "Arbitrariness". This is an organizations that approves a 2012 priority dated EB2-EB3 downgrade application filed late in November 2020 directly without EAD(actual case I personally know) while ignoring hundreds of 2009 priority dated applicants from 2012. They are under no legal obligation to process EAD before I-485.

[aGCHopefull]

Hello all, (especially interfilers)

I am June 2010 EB2, and haven't received RFE for medicals and I am planning to interfile my medicals. The Emma live agent told me the case is transferred to a local F0 on June 19.

Is it better to send the 1-693 sealed envelope to the field office OR should I send it to the MSC ? Any ideas ?

Shaks
If the file is at FO then it would be better to send I693 to FO. (Check with Emma to confirm file is still at FO and has not been sent back to NBC.)

[JoinedToAsk]

I do not have an answer. We received RFE for the derivation application from the FO , we sent the interfile request to the same address as the RFE response.
I have been told that EMMA - live agent can track and let you know where the application currently resides physically but its a hit or miss. You can try that.

I asked similar question to Emma, and they have no clue. My lawyer is saying (through official channel) that they won't be responsible if anything happens to the application because of interfiling.

[namits]

Hello all. Quick question regarding my situation:

I recently moved to a different geographic location, but am still with the same company doing the same job role. My company has filed for an H-1B amendment based on a geographic change. They had filed for my I-485 back in October 2020 for a position at my original location - but it was without medicals. I don't envision going back to the old job location.

My question is - Do I need to file an I-485J because of the location change? And can I do that with my and my dependents medicals? Or do I need to wait for an RFE before doing anything?

Any help would be much appreciated.

[shaisri]

Jan 2010 pd here - we responded to our medicals and i485j rfe last week and today we got update ?new card is produced ? we were expecting a approval notice! Hope this means our green card is approved !!!

[omas2010]

Hi,
My PD is 01/20/2010. I file for AOS/AP/EAD first time on 10/30/2020 as i missed the boat in 2012. I did my finger printing 4/14/21. Got the I485-J notice 06/20/21. And got by AP and EAD approval notice last week only and didn't receive the cards yet. When i tried EMMA live agent to get status of I485, she mentioned it is still within processing times and there is not anything i can do right now. Is that correct as i see others in this forum with PD in late 2010 mentioning they were able to log an SR. May be I am ignorant, can you please guide me if there is any way to get a status and kind of nudge the slacker that is sitting with my I485. Please help. Thank you!!

[asiingh]

On the EAD front they have approved mine and my spouses, while my sons petition was NOT ACTED upon. I opened a service request for that also as it exceeds the normal processing time.

USCIS process time for GC has dramatically increased according to greencardly. So you got to stay patient
On the EAD front - Our EADs were approved 2 weeks ago and my PD (28 Feb' 2014) is not current yet in a straight EB3 case. Like you, my kid's case was NOT ACTED upon. Can you expand on what should be next steps for the kid's case ? Originally AOS was filed on 30th Oct' 2020.
Still not sure, when my PD is going to be current.

[inspired_p]

How are they responsible if anything happens to it without interfiling ?
My lawyers have made one mistake after another filing the forms that we had to proof read and correct ; made mistake while filing ( 131 of the derivative was not accepted due to missing page ) .
At all times, we are responsible for the application anyways.

I asked similar question to Emma, and they have no clue. My lawyer is saying (through official channel) that they won't be responsible if anything happens to the application because of interfiling.

[mr00us]

I have PD of August, 2011. Like many others I also downgraded (new application) to EB-3 in October of 2020, I-140 + I-485 + Medicals. My EB-3 I-140 is still in 'Received' status and I got EAD/AP card in May 2021.

In September 2021 visa bulletin my EB-2 date got current. I was wondering if someone else is in similar situation. Do I need something like a transfer of underlying basis to let USCIS know to now connect my 485 to EB2 140(approved) instead of EB3 140 (pending) or USCIS will automatically work on I-485 now that my EB-2 is current? My lawyer says do nothing but let's say, I am not very confident on my lawyer. I had to go with them because of my institution.

My apologies if this needs to be posted somewhere else, but any insight will be helpful. Thanks.

Avi

[bikenlalan]

You would be better off staying put for now and let CIS approve your card in whichever category they do. Moving between categories again and again will only add to the delay of processing your case.

[monsieur]

USCIS and "process in order" should never go together in the same sentence. If there is one word that characterizes this organization it is "Arbitrariness". This is an organizations that approves a 2012 priority dated EB2-EB3 downgrade application filed late in November 2020 directly without EAD(actual case I personally know) while ignoring hundreds of 2009 priority dated applicants from 2012. They are under no legal obligation to process EAD before I-485.

You are going in different direction or taking my response in different context.

All I am saying is - If form/application is filed with USCIS then they will process it. Whether it takes 6 months or 6 yrs thats different story. Its like in check-out aisle. Some aisle has fast turnout, some aisle have slow just coz folks in front of you has lots of stuff in their cart and/or coupon they are using requires special steps which slows down whole process.

All I meant was If you don't file for EAD, they will not give you one. If you file for one then you will receive it. Happened to one of my friend back in 2014 - PhD guy applied for GC. Got his GC first than a week later he got his EAD. He has story to share for rest of his life :)

[omas2010]

Jan 2010 pd here - we responded to our medicals and i485j rfe last week and today we got update ?new card is produced ? we were expecting a approval notice! Hope this means our green card is approved !!!

Hi Shaisri,
Mine is also Jan 2010. Still waiting on RFE for Medicals. Can you please provide more details on when you received medical RFE and also were you able to use Emma to move I485. Further which service center was you case. Mine is MSC. Please advise.

[ajay.pdrl]

I am trying to get some help before dates retrogress and Apologies for posting this message here

I have switched employers in 2018 and the new employer?s attorney forgot to request port the priority date. However, a request was made during October 2020 485 filings, and I was issued 485 receipts correct priority date i.e., June 2010. However, Office put my case in the retrogressed state due to visa number availability He might have looked at the current I-140 that has April 2018 priority date. What?s the process to correct the Priority date and get my case moving? Any feedback/guidance is appreciated. Thank you

[ajay1234]

Apologies for posting this message here, I am trying to get help with my situation before dates really gets retrogressed


I have switched employers before filing 485, and the new employer?s attorney
forgot to request port the priority date. However,
a request was made during October 2020 485 filings,
and I was issued 485 receipts correct priority date i.e., June 2010.
However, Office put my case in the retrogressed state due to visa number availability
He might have looked at the current I-140 that has April 2018 priority date.
What?s the process to correct the Priority date and get my case moving?
Any feedback/guidance is appreciated. Thank you

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Apologies for posting this message here, I am trying to get help with my situation before dates really gets retrogressed


I have switched employers before filing 485, and the new employer?s attorney
forgot to request port the priority date. However,
a request was made during October 2020 485 filings,
and I was issued 485 receipts correct priority date i.e., June 2010.
However, Office put my case in the retrogressed state due to visa number availability
He might have looked at the current I-140 that has April 2018 priority date.
What?s the process to correct the Priority date and get my case moving?
Any feedback/guidance is appreciated. Thank you

Is the attorney who filed it aware of this? They should be able to reach out to USCIS to get it fixed. You can also check with Emma to see if they can help.

[ajay1234]

Thanks for your response, so you do think I should work with Attorney. I have educated my attorney about it this morning.
Actually, I got this update when I talk to Emma Agent, but the attorney wanted something in writing from USICS to respond. So I have again called USICS this morning and requested an email or paper notice stating the current case status.

Thank you

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Thanks for your response, so you do think I should work with Attorney. I have educated my attorney about it this morning.
Actually, I got this update when I talk to Emma Agent, but the attorney wanted something in writing from USICS to respond. So I have again called USICS this morning and requested an email or paper notice stating the current case status.

Thank you

That is just asinine that the attorney won't take your word for that and wants an official communication from USCIS! Yeah your attorney should be taking this fight to USCIS since it's their fault you are in this situation in the first place.

[ajay1234]

That is just asinine that the attorney won't take your word for that and wants an official communication from USCIS! Yeah your attorney should be taking this fight to USCIS since it's their fault you are in this situation in the first place.


I have received a PDF copy of the response from USCIS.

Insane, why would they not look at the complete case history before they put the application pending. It?s frustrating to be in this situation for a decade, and on top of USCIS does not even bother to perform basic checks.

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

I have received a PDF copy of the response from USCIS.

Insane, why would they not look at the complete case history before they put the application pending. It?s frustrating to be in this situation for a decade, and on top of USCIS does not even bother to perform basic checks.

Not trying to make you feel better, but wrong PD is one of the most common mistakes USCIS does but usually at I-485 adjudication time, they are responsive and will fix it.

[tatikonda]

Hi Q, Spec and Other Gurus.

Pardon my ignorance... Please see if you can clarify these questions for me. this may help other members too.

What does documentary qualified means ? Is it same as pre-adjudicate ?
If a person receives EAD/AP does it mean that he/she is pre-adjudicated ?
Biometrics/Background check are performed before getting EAD/AP ? or Is it more relevant for I-485 application.
Please advice.

Thanks
Tatikonda.

[EB22010Dec]

Any updates from folks who have applied for 485 this year in the last few months.
I am asking because my perm is just about certified after a job change and wondering how long will it take for EAD/GC Approval.

My PD is Dec 2010 as my Handle.

Thank you monsieur, anyone, else?

[qesehmk]

Tatikonda - I will try to answer what I can. But things may have changed significantly since I was in the queue 10 years back!! My answers in blue inline.
Hi Q, Spec and Other Gurus.

Pardon my ignorance... Please see if you can clarify these questions for me. this may help other members too.

What does documentary qualified means ? Is it same as pre-adjudicate ?
- I believe DQ means all documents are in order without any issue. Pre-Adj is the actual step when an officer certifies that the case processing is complete and case is ready to be assigned a visa.
If a person receives EAD/AP does it mean that he/she is pre-adjudicated ?
- Not at all. There is no correlation.
Biometrics/Background check are performed before getting EAD/AP ? or Is it more relevant for I-485 application.
- EAD/AP processing happens independent of 485 processing. Biometrics is part of 485. So no correlation between Biometrics / Background and EAD/AP.
Please advice.

Thanks
Tatikonda.

[mesan123]

Is the attorney who filed it aware of this? They should be able to reach out to USCIS to get it fixed. You can also check with Emma to see if they can help. One of my friend is in somewhat similar situation. he moved to current employer in 2016 and had EB2 I-140 with ported date (2012). In October he filed for downgrading and filled 485 concurrently, his 485 had correct priority date. He had done premium and got I-140 approved that had wrong priority date( USCIS gave him the current employer perm date 2016, rather than using the priority date from EB2).

His lawyers did raise SR's twice, still no response from USCIS.... this is all insane...he is current from July but dont know what else he can do

[tatikonda]

Thank you Q for your reply.
I found this document which explains processing of I-485, this is in-line with your thoughts.

https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/outreach-engagements/PED_Form_I-485_EB_Overview.pdf



Tatikonda - I will try to answer what I can. But things may have changed significantly since I was in the queue 10 years back!! My answers in blue inline.

[skpanda]

Friends,
I had applied AOS in Oct 2020 (See my signature for details). I had sent the medical form I693 already with the application. However I have received RFE today from the local office asking me to send the medical form again?

Is this normal?
Why can't they just see the form with the package? I thought it was valid for atleast 1 year?

I will of course respond to RFE but it seems its just a waste of time and delaying tactic by USCIS.

Any thoughts on this will be appreciated!

Thanks!

All,
Update:
My doctor made me do the blood tests etc again. It took a week to get the updated I693s. I have sent them to the Field office to be delivered tomorrow morning. Hope field office does not sit on it, and issues the GC ASAP.

Does anyone know how Field office handles GC cases and how quickly they process the RFE?

Thanks!

[userksp]

I have PD of August, 2011. Like many others I also downgraded (new application) to EB-3 in October of 2020, I-140 + I-485 + Medicals. My EB-3 I-140 is still in 'Received' status and I got EAD/AP card in May 2021.

In September 2021 visa bulletin my EB-2 date got current. I was wondering if someone else is in similar situation. Do I need something like a transfer of underlying basis to let USCIS know to now connect my 485 to EB2 140(approved) instead of EB3 140 (pending) or USCIS will automatically work on I-485 now that my EB-2 is current? My lawyer says do nothing but let's say, I am not very confident on my lawyer. I had to go with them because of my institution.

My apologies if this needs to be posted somewhere else, but any insight will be helpful. Thanks.

Avi

My understanding is that interfiling from EB3 to EB2 requires the underlying EB3 to be approved. Experts, correct me if I am wrong.

[gammaray]

All,
Update:
My doctor made me do the blood tests etc again. It took a week to get the updated I693s. I have sent them to the Field office to be delivered tomorrow morning. Hope field office does not sit on it, and issues the GC ASAP.

Does anyone know how Field office handles GC cases and how quickly they process the RFE?

Thanks!

I mean it depends on the field office. Either ways its likely the GC is imminent, and with the USCIS push to utilize visa numbers it should be issued before Oct 1.

[gten20]

All,
Update:
My doctor made me do the blood tests etc again. It took a week to get the updated I693s. I have sent them to the Field office to be delivered tomorrow morning. Hope field office does not sit on it, and issues the GC ASAP.

Does anyone know how Field office handles GC cases and how quickly they process the RFE?

Thanks!

As per USCIS tweets you should get your GC before Oct. 1, 2021, hopefully sooner!

[andhraguy]

Last week and this week I saw 6 GC approvals in my friend circle. Mostly are from 2009/2010. one with 2013 PD. Seems USCIS has picked up the speed in last quarter and hope visa wastage will be minimal. Anyone seeing approvals from 2012-2013 PD ?

[aGCHopefull]

As per USCIS tweets you should get your GC before Oct. 1, 2021, hopefully sooner!

@gten20 - seems like you received I485j receipt day after our discussion. Had you opened any SR or it just came on its own. Have you received medical RFE yet?

[inspired_p]

Last week and this week I saw 6 GC approvals in my friend circle. Mostly are from 2009/2010. one with 2013 PD. Seems USCIS has picked up the speed in last quarter and hope visa wastage will be minimal. Anyone seeing approvals from 2012-2013 PD ?

Do you know if any got a I-485J RFE ?
I am curious to know if I-485J RFE is default or they ask for it only if the time between application and approval is long.

[gsingh]

From the folks whose case is at TSC with the I-485 notice date of around Jan/Feb 2021 and they sent the I-693 voluntarily and requested interfiling.
Has anyone received a confirmation from the live agent that their medical was attached to the I-485?

[andhraguy]

Do you know if any got a I-485J RFE ?
I am curious to know if I-485J RFE is default or they ask for it only if the time between application and approval is long.

As far I know mostly RFE is for medicals.Btw all are 2020 October fillers.

[inspired_p]

As far I know mostly RFE is for medicals.Btw all are 2020 October fillers.

Thank you ! That?s good to know, they are not loosing additional time by asking employment proof

[skpanda]

All,
Update:
My doctor made me do the blood tests etc again. It took a week to get the updated I693s. I have sent them to the Field office to be delivered tomorrow morning. Hope field office does not sit on it, and issues the GC ASAP.

Does anyone know how Field office handles GC cases and how quickly they process the RFE?

Thanks!

All,
QQ -

Even though my case was transferred to FO, Medical RFE issued and I have responded to Medical RFE - That case status does not reflect any of these. It still shows below:

As of April 8, 2021, fingerprints relating to your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, Receipt Number MSC219054****, have been applied to your case. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.


I have seen people update here that their USCIS case status reflects RFEs etc.

Is this normal not to have USCIS case status updated? My concern is that all my RFE response is going to catch dust if USCIS cannot track it and I will lose the oppurtinity to get GC this Fiscal Year.

Thanks for any insights on this!

[andhraguy]

All,
QQ -

Even though my case was transferred to FO, Medical RFE issued and I have responded to Medical RFE - That case status does not reflect any of these. It still shows below:

As of April 8, 2021, fingerprints relating to your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, Receipt Number MSC219054****, have been applied to your case. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.


I have seen people update here that their USCIS case status reflects RFEs etc.

Is this normal not to have USCIS case status updated? My concern is that all my RFE response is going to catch dust if USCIS cannot track it and I will lose the oppurtinity to get GC this Fiscal Year.

Thanks for any insights on this!

I see that you have responded to rfe on 8/18. Wait for 2 to 3 days you should see the status updated to response received.sometimes it can take longer but nothing to worry just sit tight and wait. We should all get gc by step 30.

[mesan123]

All,
QQ -

Even though my case was transferred to FO, Medical RFE issued and I have responded to Medical RFE - That case status does not reflect any of these. It still shows below:

As of April 8, 2021, fingerprints relating to your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, Receipt Number MSC219054****, have been applied to your case. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.


I have seen people update here that their USCIS case status reflects RFEs etc.

Is this normal not to have USCIS case status updated? My concern is that all my RFE response is going to catch dust if USCIS cannot track it and I will lose the oppurtinity to get GC this Fiscal Year.

Thanks for any insights on this!
Hi Skpanda, try to talk to USCIS customer service L2 officer. Normally Once file is in FO things move little fast. As you recently responded back to medical TFE to FO. You might see ipdates soon. My friend got his GC in 3-4 weeks from the time he responded havk to Medical RFE of field office( just mentioning as reference point)

[userksp]

All,
QQ -

Even though my case was transferred to FO, Medical RFE issued and I have responded to Medical RFE - That case status does not reflect any of these. It still shows below:

As of April 8, 2021, fingerprints relating to your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, Receipt Number MSC219054****, have been applied to your case. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.


I have seen people update here that their USCIS case status reflects RFEs etc.

Is this normal not to have USCIS case status updated? My concern is that all my RFE response is going to catch dust if USCIS cannot track it and I will lose the oppurtinity to get GC this Fiscal Year.

Thanks for any insights on this!

Generally only RFE responses sent to the service center get immediate online updates while the responses sent to FO do not. Your online status should change to Card Approved very soon.

[andhraguy]

Generally only RFE responses sent to the service center get immediate online updates while the responses sent to FO do not. Your online status should change to Card Approved very soon.

Yes I completely agree. The response sent to service center receives by mailroom and they simply update the online status and throw the packet to some shelve. Adjudicating officer opens it when he is ready. Counting number of days past from RFE response doesn't help here.

Recently I opened a SR after 60 days past of my RFE response, I received a generic response "We are working on your case, If we need additional document we will contact you, bla bla bla.. "

[gammaray]

All,
QQ -

Even though my case was transferred to FO, Medical RFE issued and I have responded to Medical RFE - That case status does not reflect any of these. It still shows below:

As of April 8, 2021, fingerprints relating to your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, Receipt Number MSC219054****, have been applied to your case. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.


I have seen people update here that their USCIS case status reflects RFEs etc.

Is this normal not to have USCIS case status updated? My concern is that all my RFE response is going to catch dust if USCIS cannot track it and I will lose the oppurtinity to get GC this Fiscal Year.

Thanks for any insights on this!

Seriously man, you need to calm down. Your gc is round the corner. Whether its this FY (most likely) or FY22 how does it matter? (should only matter to the folks with much later PDs that are in que) Worrying about online case statuses or whether USCIS field offices or service centers will do their job correctly or not is really futile and illogical. Unless your situation demands that you cant function without a gc in hand, just sit back and wait a few weeks (or even a couple months) to get the approval.

[kuku82]

In my case it never reflected rfe response received. Went straight from fingerprints received to new card being produced. Both for me and spouse.

[gten20]

@gten20 - seems like you received I485j receipt day after our discussion. Had you opened any SR or it just came on its own. Have you received medical RFE yet?

I got the I485J notice in mail on 08/16/2021. I didn't open any SR. It came on it's own. I chatted with Emma Live Agent couple days ago and my file is still at NBC and it has not been transferred to Local FO. It feels like everything is moving at snail pace. :)

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

All,
QQ -

Even though my case was transferred to FO, Medical RFE issued and I have responded to Medical RFE - That case status does not reflect any of these. It still shows below:

As of April 8, 2021, fingerprints relating to your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, Receipt Number MSC219054****, have been applied to your case. If you move, go to www.uscis.gov/addresschange to give us your new mailing address.


I have seen people update here that their USCIS case status reflects RFEs etc.

Is this normal not to have USCIS case status updated? My concern is that all my RFE response is going to catch dust if USCIS cannot track it and I will lose the oppurtinity to get GC this Fiscal Year.

Thanks for any insights on this!

As other mentioned, even my status went from fingerprints applied to card production without any other updates anytime in between, so unfortunately it's a waiting game per usual. Don't worry about it, you have done all you can at this point.

[skpanda]

Thanks to all who resonded. I am not losing sleep over GC. Waited for over a decade and few more months/years do not make any difference for me. I am not looking for changing jobs or anything.

I am just curious on the process and asking questions so answers can help others who want to know.

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Thanks to all who resonded. I am not losing sleep over GC. Waited for over a decade and few more months/years do not make any difference for me. I am not looking for changing jobs or anything.

I am just curious on the process and asking questions so answers can help others who want to know.

It is indeed extremely frustrating as the 'Service' at the end of the USCIS is completely false as they never live up to it. If the shoe was on the other foot, if we make one tiny mistake in the copious amounts of documentation that we are asked to manually provide, they will summarily reject it or make our lives miserable. That is the reality of the situation though as the operations of the USCIS is subject to the vagaries of whoever is in power. Glad you are at MSC and and have got and responded to the RFE already. I will take a guess and say you will be greened in the next 2-3 weeks if not earlier.

[skpanda]

It is indeed extremely frustrating as the 'Service' at the end of the USCIS is completely false as they never live up to it. If the shoe was on the other foot, if we make one tiny mistake in the copious amounts of documentation that we are asked to manually provide, they will summarily reject it or make our lives miserable. That is the reality of the situation though as the operations of the USCIS is subject to the vagaries of whoever is in power. Glad you are at MSC and and have got and responded to the RFE already. I will take a guess and say you will be greened in the next 2-3 weeks if not earlier.

Thanks hope so!

At this point I do not care when the GC comes to be honest. I have never compromised in life here in US and lived like any normal citizen (except vote and the stupid visa stamping every 3 years). Its like.. just get it over with already and be done.

[rsnake]

From what I have seen, if the RFE is from the FO the status is not updated online, if it's from the SC then it is.

[aGCHopefull]

I got the I485J notice in mail on 08/16/2021. I didn't open any SR. It came on it's own. I chatted with Emma Live Agent couple days ago and my file is still at NBC and it has not been transferred to Local FO. It feels like everything is moving at snail pace. :)

Great, good that it started moving for you at least. Check with Emma if it has been transferred now.
I am still waiting for 485j notice.

[FarAwayfromGC]

The general trend I have seen is that once the file has been moved to FO, FO generates 485 J receipt, then in 2-3 weeks send RFE for medicals. if medicals were submitted with application then usually approval in 3-5 weeks. the timing may vary from case to case but steps should be same.

Is anyone here with file transferred from NBC to TSC and back to NBC ? Can anyone shed some light ?

[dosaman]

Is anyone here with file transferred from NBC to TSC and back to NBC ? Can anyone shed some light ?

How do you know that your file was transferred from NBC to TSC to NBC? Was it though Emma? I found Emma unreliable. I was told by some live agents that my application moved to Boston FO and by some that my application is at NBC. I then called the USCIS support number and they told me that my application was always at NBC and was never transferred.

Try calling USCIS support.

[monsieur]

Received my BM notice yesterday. Scheduled for Sep 1st week. Finger crossed

[FarAwayfromGC]

How do you know that your file was transferred from NBC to TSC to NBC? Was it though Emma? I found Emma unreliable. I was told by some live agents that my application moved to Boston FO and by some that my application is at NBC. I then called the USCIS support number and they told me that my application was always at NBC and was never transferred.

Try calling USCIS support.

Dosaman,

I received a transfer notice back in May notifying transfer to TSC and then last week Emma indicated that the file is back to NBC.

I will call USCIS support though .

[mr00us]

I have PD of August, 2011. Like many others I also downgraded (new application) to EB-3 in October of 2020, I-140 + I-485 + Medicals. My EB-3 I-140 is still in 'Received' status and I got EAD/AP card in May 2021.

In September 2021 visa bulletin my EB-2 date got current. I was wondering if someone else is in similar situation. Do I need something like a transfer of underlying basis to let USCIS know to now connect my 485 to EB2 140(approved) instead of EB3 140 (pending) or USCIS will automatically work on I-485 now that my EB-2 is current? My lawyer says do nothing but let's say, I am not very confident on my lawyer. I had to go with them because of my institution.

My apologies if this needs to be posted somewhere else, but any insight will be helpful. Thanks.

Avi



Can anyone please weigh in on this if they are in or know someone in this situation? So many conflicting views are coming from lawyers. Thanks!!!!.

[qesehmk]

Can anyone please weigh in on this if they are in or know someone in this situation? So many conflicting views are coming from lawyers. Thanks!!!!.
I believe USCIS already knows your have two 140s and uses oldest PD to process your 140 upon which you have filed for 485.

I assume you file 485 based on EB3. I do not think it will hurt at all for you to simply file another 485 for EB2 but it will be costly affair for sure.

Ideally I do not think filing another 485 is necessary. However given how USCIS acts in strange ways - I would go ahead and do it if money is not an object.

[mr00us]

I believe USCIS already knows your have two 140s and uses oldest PD to process your 140 upon which you have filed for 485.

I assume you file 485 based on EB3. I do not think it will hurt at all for you to simply file another 485 for EB2 but it will be costly affair for sure.

Ideally I do not think filing another 485 is necessary. However given how USCIS acts in strange ways - I would go ahead and do it if money is not an object.

First off, THANKS for taking the time out and helping me. Much appreciated. You see, the strange thing is that I have waited for 10 years and now it just seems like I have lost all my patience and want this to be over with. Kind of like buyers fatigue. Given the circumstances, whatever takes me there fastest, is what i am looking for. :-)


I filed 485 when I down ported to Eb3 in October 2020. So from what you say and what I gather (presuming money is not an issue) here are options for people like me

1. Get I140 (eb3) done in Premium processing.
I filed, they rejected and want me to file in 30 days again (Sep 4th is 30th day)
2. File new 485 based on EB2.
3. File for premium processing, get it approved and file for new 485 as well with EB2
4. Ask USCIS to attach EB-2 to my already filed I-485



Question: Is interfile (transfer of underlying basis) necessary to attach approved Eb2 to i-485 if we DO NOT file new 485 (My lawyer says interfile is not needed BUT I have not much confidence in his advice)
or
USCIS will know on its own that I have old I-140 approved and themselves attach it to i-485?

Question: Won't that start the 485 saga all over again with over a year of processing time?

Once again, thanks for all the time and help.

[delorean_doc]

Hi folks,
Would appreciate your guidance here. Here's the situation:
(i) My fingerprints were taken on Jun 2nd...and there's been no progress since then. Even an RFE would sound awesome but no such luck - my case is being processed at the Texas Service Center (SRC)
(ii) My brother went for his fingerprinting right around the same time and he got his EAD card delivered to his home over a month ago (they didn't even ask for medicals) - his case is being processed at MSC.

I realize that different service centers have different rates of processing applications. What do you suggest is my recourse at this time? The discussions around the Meng Amendment and/or potential retrogressions are making me quite nervous.

[rotikapdaaurgc]

Hi guys,

My PD is Apr 2010, EB2-I. I applied for EAD renewal in May 2021 and am still waiting for renewed EAD card. Has anyone here extended I-9 validity with employer using the receipt notice? Also, does New Jersey DMV accept receipt notice for extension of Drivers license?

I am not expecting GC to be approved before EAD approval as I haven?t received an RFE yet for Medicals.

Appreciate your help.

[vsivarama]

Hi guys,

My PD is Apr 2010, EB2-I. I applied for EAD renewal in May 2021 and am still waiting for renewed EAD card. Has anyone here extended I-9 validity with employer using the receipt notice? Also, does New Jersey DMV accept receipt notice for extension of Drivers license?

I am not expecting GC to be approved before EAD approval as I haven?t received an RFE yet for Medicals.

Appreciate your help.

Technically AOS is a status and EAD is not. Can you not renew your Driver's license using your I485 receipt notice? Just a thought.

[newyorker123]

Hi guys,

My PD is Apr 2010, EB2-I. I applied for EAD renewal in May 2021 and am still waiting for renewed EAD card. Has anyone here extended I-9 validity with employer using the receipt notice? Also, does New Jersey DMV accept receipt notice for extension of Drivers license?

I am not expecting GC to be approved before EAD approval as I haven?t received an RFE yet for Medicals.

Appreciate your help.

These days, there are no immigration status checks for NJ DL renewals. Thanks to the new rule which allows even undocumented to get it now.
They are giving out 4 year licenses for most renewals.

[3nov10]

Covid vaccine is required from oct 1 for medicals.

[dosaman]

Covid vaccine is required from oct 1 for medicals.

Really? Where did you get this information from?

[mohan_jgd]

Anyone in the MSC21907* series received any RFE or updates? We have received our EAD/AP but still waiting for RFE on medical or I-485J update.

[AlmostThere]

HI Guru's,

After responding Medical RFE for 485 the status changed to "Correspondence Was Received and USCIS Is reviewing It" - Do you know what it means?


EB2-I | PD: Dec, 2010 | RD: 10/27/2020 | I-485 - Pending

[Zenzone]

HI Guru's,

After responding Medical RFE for 485 the status changed to "Correspondence Was Received and USCIS Is reviewing It" - Do you know what it means?


EB2-I | PD: Dec, 2010 | RD: 10/27/2020 | I-485 - Pending

Just means what it says. USCIS received your RFE response and will review it. Good Luck! This status doesn't show for everyone typically, for example, for me it stayed as "RFE Sent" even after I replied back to it but it changed to "Case Approved" directly when they issued my GC. So this status is not a requirement. I'm stating it here because I don't want others who didn't get this status change after sending their RFE response to get worried.

[AlmostThere]

Just means what it says. USCIS received your RFE response and will review it. Good Luck! This status doesn't show for everyone typically, for example, for me it stayed as "RFE Sent" even after I replied back to it but it changed to "Case Approved" directly when they issued my GC. So this status is not a requirement. I'm stating it here because I don't want others who didn't get this status change after sending their RFE response to get worried.

Thank you. Same is my understanding. You are correct that the status is NOT very common. Did google and searched in other forums, but usually the status after RFE response is "Response to RFE is received". Will see how it goes and let this group know, so it can help the next member.

[inspired_p]

Thank you. Same is my understanding. You are correct that the status is NOT very common. Did google and searched in other forums, but usually the status after RFE response is "Response to RFE is received". Will see how it goes and let this group know, so it can help the next member.

I have the same status on my application after I sent the medical envelope without RFE
Any status change is a good thing I believe ; it means USCIS is looking. At the case

[AlmostThere]

I have the same status on my application after I sent the medical envelope without RFE
Any status change is a good thing I believe ; it means USCIS is looking. At the case

Thank you. Sorry I should have been a bit more clear on my status. here it is:

FO: Los Angeles
RFE Response Date: 8/16
RFE Receive Date(per Fedex): 8/17
USCIS update as "Correspondence received" : 8/23

[inspired_p]

Thank you. Sorry I should have been a bit more clear on my status. here it is:

FO: Los Angeles
RFE Response Date: 8/16
RFE Receive Date(per Fedex): 8/17
USCIS update as "Correspondence received" : 8/23
I understood your scenario, I just wanted to add that such status is seen when USCIS acknowledged medicals without RFE
And knowing that for many the status didn't change at all, I still think it is a positive sign to see status update , some hope that the application is actively worked on

[Jonty Rhodes]

Hello Gurus,

We (I and my wife) are both current in EB3 and EB2. We filed our I-485s in October 2020 in EB3 with EB2-EB3 downgrade. Our PD is 5/20/2011 and I have an approved I-140 in EB3.

We received medical RFEs during August 1st week and sent medicals to NSC last week. Our I-485 statuses changed on 8/19/2021 and say "Response To USCIS' Request for Evidence Was Received" for both of us. When I view the cases online, it says that "USCIS has begun working on your case again" in the case details.

Today, our EADs got approved (AP still pending unless it's a combo card). We did the biometrics on 4/8/2021 but we were still waiting for EAD/AP approval.

I wasn't sure why our EADs weren't approved till now but after we sent our medical RFEs just less than a week back, our EADs got approved. I believe it only means that they are working on our cases. But I found it strange that if they were working on our cases, why not approve I-485s directly instead of approving EADs at this point.

It didn't make much sense to me. But I wanted to ask experts here if it is a common process to approve EADs right before approving I-485s, especially if EADs were not approved before?

[kanthmedala]

Hi Jonty,

We got Our EADs a week after RFE was sent and 3 weeks later 485 got approved. In another case, my friend after sending medicals RFE docs, 4 weeks later he got EAD first and 2 days later 485 approved.
only difference is my RFE was from FO and my friend's was from service center.

[gammaray]

Hello Gurus,

We (I and my wife) are both current in EB3 and EB2. We filed our I-485s in October 2020 in EB3 with EB2-EB3 downgrade. Our PD is 5/20/2011 and I have an approved I-140 in EB3.

We received medical RFEs during August 1st week and sent medicals to NSC last week. Our I-485 statuses changed on 8/19/2021 and say "Response To USCIS' Request for Evidence Was Received" for both of us. When I view the cases online, it says that "USCIS has begun working on your case again" in the case details.

Today, our EADs got approved (AP still pending unless it's a combo card). We did the biometrics on 4/8/2021 but we were still waiting for EAD/AP approval.

I wasn't sure why our EADs weren't approved till now but after we sent our medical RFEs just less than a week back, our EADs got approved. I believe it only means that they are working on our cases. But I found it strange that if they were working on our cases, why not approve I-485s directly instead of approving EADs at this point.

It didn't make much sense to me. But I wanted to ask experts here if it is a common process to approve EADs right before approving I-485s, especially if EADs were not approved before?

Not sure if anyone can be an expert in USCIS functionality , but yes based on patterns of experiences posted by folks in forums , EAD approval is right before I-485 approval. I would say in the next 1-3 weeks if there is no interview.

[Jonty Rhodes]

Hi Jonty,

We got Our EADs a week after RFE was sent and 3 weeks later 485 got approved. In another case, my friend after sending medicals RFE docs, 4 weeks later he got EAD first and 2 days later 485 approved.
only difference is my RFE was from FO and my friend's was from service center.

Thanks for the input. I appreciate it.

[Jonty Rhodes]

Not sure if anyone can be an expert in USCIS functionality , but yes based on patterns of experiences posted by folks in forums , EAD approval is right before I-485 approval. I would say in the next 1-3 weeks if there is no interview.

Thanks for the input. I appreciate it.

[eb3July]

I got notice for Interview: Sept 29th 2021

PD: 07/28/2011 EB3 straight
Center: Austin TX
Receipt date:18/10/2021
EAD: FEB 2021.

Could anyone help what to expect in interview and what documents I need to take there? I have already supplied medicals when I got RFE in April.

[srimurthy]

I got notice for Interview: Sept 29th 2021

PD: 07/28/2011 EB3 straight
Center: Austin TX
Receipt date:18/10/2021
EAD: FEB 2021.

Could anyone help what to expect in interview and what documents I need to take there? I have already supplied medicals when I got RFE in April.

Refer to the thread:
https://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/2976-GC-Interview-Discussions

I moved the info posted by user Chilli to this thread

[LeoAugust]

Hi All,
Today I had my BM completed. Any chance that my EAD/AP and RFE will be initiated ? Please let me know.
Thanks

[LeoAugust]

Hi All,
Today I had my BM completed. Any chance that my EAD/AP and RFE will be initiated ? Please let me know.
Thanks

[ImmiGiveMe]

Really? Where did you get this information from?

https://www.murthy.com/2021/08/25/cdc-adds-covid-19-vaccine-to-list-of-required-immunizations/

[AlmostThere]

I understood your scenario, I just wanted to add that such status is seen when USCIS acknowledged medicals without RFE
And knowing that for many the status didn't change at all, I still think it is a positive sign to see status update , some hope that the application is actively worked on

Some further information on the status of "Correspondence Was Received And USCIS Is Reviewing It"*:
1. This status is relatively new, it started to show up on cases majorly starting 8/6. before that it was just 2-3 case.
2. Atleast 55% of the cases were approved within 2-3 weeks ( it could be as high as 70%, Did not spend much time)
3. Less 12% of the cases are pending for more than 3 weeks i.e since 8/6.


*Data used from a google drive for each week of MSC* series data movement available from trackitt user.

[sudebusa]

Is it true that there are about 4500 applications in SRC/TSC from 2012 filers? And only about half of those approved so far?
Someone made this comment in one of the Telegram groups.
My understanding is most 2012 filers have been approved already.

[rohanvus]

Is it true that there are about 4500 applications in SRC/TSC from 2012 filers? And only about half of those approved so far?
Someone made this comment in one of the Telegram groups.
My understanding is most 2012 filers have been approved already.

Thats a true fact . Not sure how many cases are like this but my colleagues who filed in 2012 are still waiting and yet others who filed in straight EB2/EB3 with PDs of Oct 2010,Dec2010 last October got approved .

[Zenzone]

Thats a true fact . Not sure how many cases are like this but my colleagues who filed in 2012 are still waiting and yet others who filed in straight EB2/EB3 with PDs of Oct 2010,Dec2010 last October got approved .

Once you file its all a matter of administrative queue processing which could vary from service centers, FOs and other documentary completeness of each individual application. The problem with the 2012 applications is that medical RFE needs to be generated (unfortunately) in many cases. Not ideal but true.

[ImmiGiveMe]

Once you file its all a matter of administrative queue processing which could vary from service centers, FOs and other documentary completeness of each individual application. The problem with the 2012 applications is that medical RFE needs to be generated (unfortunately) in many cases. Not ideal but true.

Just curious, why don't they interfile the medicals instead of waiting for the RFE?

[monsieur]

Just curious, why don't they interfile the medicals instead of waiting for the RFE?

Some are truly conservative and doesn't do a single thing without lawyers word. And in this case almost all lawyers are stating "You can submit Medicals only after RFE"

[sstest]

Hi All,
Today I had my BM completed. Any chance that my EAD/AP and RFE will be initiated ? Please let me know.
Thanks

BM-driven BG check should take about a couple of weeks (based on what I have read most frequently). After that RFE is completely random. Some people get it while many others, not yet; my friend is waiting since Dec 2020 after completing his BM. EAD / AP is another randomness.

The best would be to interfle I-693 to the address on your I-485.

[Jonty Rhodes]

Question for Gurus.

Can you submit an expedited request for I-485 processing? Also, generally, one is supposed to wait for at least 60 days for I-485 processing before contacting USCIS but can you request a member of Congress to help out with the processing if there is a delay beyond 30 days?

I am not planning at this point to contact the member of Congress and am willing to wait for couple more weeks. But I am seeing COVID patients every day being a frontline physician for about one and a half years now and my patience is running thin at this time, considering the constant risk I get exposed to. The green card would open a lot of other avenues for me but at this point, I want some security for my family at the very least.

[sstest]

Question for Gurus.

Can you submit an expedited request for I-485 processing? Also, generally, one is supposed to wait for at least 60 days for I-485 processing before contacting USCIS but can you request a member of Congress to help out with the processing if there is a delay beyond 30 days?

I am not planning at this point to contact the member of Congress and am willing to wait for couple more weeks. But I am seeing COVID patients every day being a frontline physician for about one and a half years now and my patience is running thin at this time, considering the constant risk I get exposed to. The green card would open a lot of other avenues for me but at this point, I want some security for my family at the very least.

Apparently, the option to expedite even though you do not qualify for it based on processing time for your processing center, used to be there. It was removed recently from the website. You are in a special situation so no harm in trying the congressman/senator route. Unfortunately, I don't think it will help a lot given we are still in the very early part of processing timelines for LIN.

OTOH, I think you are days away from approval. Our PD, RD, Bio, EB3 140, RFE, RFER dates match very closely. 1 month to a few days difference. I got the approval message today - my RFER date was 08/11. I see them starting to get into later part of 10 - 20 Aug RFERs. I hope and I wish for success in your case very, very soon.

[Jonty Rhodes]

Apparently, the option to expedite even though you do not qualify for it based on processing time for your processing center, used to be there. It was removed recently from the website. You are in a special situation so no harm in trying the congressman/senator route. Unfortunately, I don't think it will help a lot given we are still in the very early part of processing timelines for LIN.

OTOH, I think you are days away from approval. Our PD, RD, Bio, EB3 140, RFE, RFER dates match very closely. 1 month to a few days difference. I got the approval message today - my RFER date was 08/11. I see them starting to get into later part of 10 - 20 Aug RFERs. I hope and I wish for success in your case very, very soon.

Thank you. Appreciate your input and congratulations on getting the approval.

[vsivarama]

Question for Gurus.

Can you submit an expedited request for I-485 processing? Also, generally, one is supposed to wait for at least 60 days for I-485 processing before contacting USCIS but can you request a member of Congress to help out with the processing if there is a delay beyond 30 days?

I am not planning at this point to contact the member of Congress and am willing to wait for couple more weeks. But I am seeing COVID patients every day being a frontline physician for about one and a half years now and my patience is running thin at this time, considering the constant risk I get exposed to. The green card would open a lot of other avenues for me but at this point, I want some security for my family at the very least.

You can of course submit an expedited request. But just do not stop with the reason you gave in the forum to your congressman. While I absolutely empathize with you, but the congressman and USCIS will not so much. That unfortunately is the cold hard truth. There is something that you may want to try though especially if you are still on H1. Just recently Greg Abbott the governor of Texas had asked for physicians to volunteer to treat Covid patients in Texas. You can mention to your congressman that you being on H1 is definitely impacting you from volunteering if the situation arises in any other state (because of amendments and other logistics). Hope that moves the needle for you. I do salute you for the service you are doing to the community in these trying times.

[GCGCGCGC]

Hello Guru's

My 485 status shows "Case Was Updated To Show Fingerprints Were Taken" from past 5 months and no further update after that. Chatted with EMMA agent multiple times but no luck.

Here is my timeline

Category: EB2 India
EB2 Priority Date: 06/06/2011
Processing Center: NSC (Nebraska - LIN219007 series)
EB2-EB3 Downgrade: 10/20/2020
Filed I-140, 485, EAD, AP application on 10/20/2020 along with medicals
Receipt Notice: 12/29/2020
EAD+AP approved : 02/08/2021
Biometrics: 03/31/2021
EB3 I-140 Approval: 07/15/2021

Green Card: Awaited

Any chance of getting greened soon?

[inspired_p]

Hello Guru's

My 485 status shows "Case Was Updated To Show Fingerprints Were Taken" from past 5 months and no further update after that. Chatted with EMMA agent multiple times but no luck.

Here is my timeline

Category: EB2 India
EB2 Priority Date: 06/06/2011
Processing Center: NSC (Nebraska - LIN219007 series)
EB2-EB3 Downgrade: 10/20/2020
Filed I-140, 485, EAD, AP application on 10/20/2020 along with medicals
Receipt Notice: 12/29/2020
EAD+AP approved : 02/08/2021
Biometrics: 03/31/2021
EB3 I-140 Approval: 07/15/2021

Green Card: Awaited

Any chance of getting greened soon?

We always expect the GCs to be issued in the descending order of PDs .. but unfortunately once 485 is applied its anyone's guess which application will get processed first. with FADs moving at such rapid rate, the applications ready to be processed span over multiple months/years, making it even more hapzard.

Having said that, you are almost there, you should get greened within next few months. October 2021 will not see any more movement of FADs and that will stop the increase in count of applications waiting to be approved.

[GCGCGCGC]

We always expect the GCs to be issued in the descending order of PDs .. but unfortunately once 485 is applied its anyone's guess which application will get processed first. with FADs moving at such rapid rate, the applications ready to be processed span over multiple months/years, making it even more hapzard.

Having said that, you are almost there, you should get greened within next few months. October 2021 will not see any more movement of FADs and that will stop the increase in count of applications waiting to be approved.

Thank you inspired_p, Congratulation once again!!!

[montyp80]

Gurus on the forum:

My PD is 1/17/2014, EB3I. This week I received an RFE for medical. In the RFE it states the following:
"You must submit the requested information by Nov 22, 2021. However, you should respond as soon as possible if you would like your case to be considered for visa allocation for this fiscal year, which ends on September 30, 2021."

My question is, my date is not even current yet then what does the above language mean?

[gammaray]

Gurus on the forum:

My PD is 1/17/2014, EB3I. This week I received an RFE for medical. In the RFE it states the following:
"You must submit the requested information by Nov 22, 2021. However, you should respond as soon as possible if you would like your case to be considered for visa allocation for this fiscal year, which ends on September 30, 2021."

My question is, my date is not even current yet then what does the above language mean?

Yeah a lot of people had a similar note on the RFE notice. I believe it's just what USCIS is including on the recently generated RFE's and is not really applicable for folks that are not current under the FAD. But at least the RFE's have been going out to some folks in advance of the date becoming current hopefully in the near future.

[montyp80]

Yeah a lot of people had a similar note on the RFE notice. I believe it's just what USCIS is including on the recently generated RFE's and is not really applicable for folks that are not current under the FAD. But at least the RFE's have been going out to some folks in advance of the date becoming current hopefully in the near future.

Thanks, that's what I thought too. USCIS just reusing the same template as they are 'very busy' trying to meet the target of processing 180k GCs. *SMH*

[gammaray]

Thanks, that's what I thought too. USCIS just reusing the same template as they are 'very busy' trying to meet the target of processing 180k GCs. *SMH*

I mean RFE's are generated in bulk whether by the FO or the service center, customizing the notice to individual cases (unless there are other specific documents missing) doesn't seem practical. Getting it in advance and having the opportunity to respond before the dates are current at least hopefully saves some time in the future.

[montyp80]

I mean RFE's are generated in bulk whether by the FO or the service center, customizing the notice to individual cases (unless there are other specific documents missing) doesn't seem practical. Getting it in advance and having the opportunity to respond before the dates are current at least hopefully saves some time in the future.

I would most definitely hope so. I am glad I at least received an RFE. I was getting ready to interfile but this definitely gives me an opportunity to be in the know on what's happening with my case after I respond to the RFE.

[gten20]

Gurus on the forum:

My PD is 1/17/2014, EB3I. This week I received an RFE for medical. In the RFE it states the following:
"You must submit the requested information by Nov 22, 2021. However, you should respond as soon as possible if you would like your case to be considered for visa allocation for this fiscal year, which ends on September 30, 2021."

My question is, my date is not even current yet then what does the above language mean?

I received RFE for my medicals yesterday in mail from my local FO. It doesn't say to file ASAP to be considerd for fiscal year 2021. Did your notice come from Service Center or local FO?

[idliman]

I received RFE for my medicals yesterday in mail from my local FO. It doesn't say to file ASAP to be considerd for fiscal year 2021. Did your notice come from Service Center or local FO?
Gten20, What are you waiting for? Get medical done. If it is from a small field office, it is even better. Send it ASAP so that you can target approval before the end of the month.

[gammaray]

I received RFE for my medicals yesterday in mail from my local FO. It doesn't say to file ASAP to be considerd for fiscal year 2021. Did your notice come from Service Center or local FO?

Not sure why it matters what the standard language on the RFE is. Your date is current, it's implicitly understood that if you send the response in asap you'll likely make it in FY'21. Beneficial for you but more so for the folks waiting behind you that are hoping that USCIS can green as many as possible this month.

[beagle]

My priority date is April-2011 EB2. Since March 2021, my application is DQed (BioMetrics done, Submitted RFE response for I-693). I became current in July 2021 and in June 2021 my application was transferred from to NBC to TSC. I see bunch of transfers to TSC which I know is like a black hole. My 485 is a straight forward case and been with the same employer. Why would they transfer applicaitons to TSC and claim its to improve the process effciency ? TSC processing time is insane 2-5 years. So raising SR or anything is not possible as its within their crazy processing time window. Has anyone got greened recently after being transferred to TSC ? I don't know what to expect by end of September.

Thanks and I'm happy to see 2010s getting greened.

[montyp80]

I received RFE for my medicals yesterday in mail from my local FO. It doesn't say to file ASAP to be considerd for fiscal year 2021. Did your notice come from Service Center or local FO?

Mine came from Reno, NV FO. Technically my FO is Detroit, MI but it was transferred to Reno, NV for load balancing...whatever that means.

[monsieur]

With 4 yr expiration, there is no excuse to sit on medical RFE. Ideally by now, you have Doc identified and should be aware of overall process i.e have immunization records, be prepared for lab work, covid vaccination compelted. Moment you see med RFE, first call should be to Doc to setup appointment or Lab work permission unless you are dealing with personal stuff where GC is not top priority

[gten20]

Gten20, What are you waiting for? Get medical done. If it is from a small field office, it is even better. Send it ASAP so that you can target approval before the end of the month.


Not sure why it matters what the standard language on the RFE is. Your date is current, it's implicitly understood that if you send the response in asap you'll likely make it in FY'21. Beneficial for you but more so for the folks waiting behind you that are hoping that USCIS can green as many as possible this month.

I think my post was misunderstood. I am not waiting for anything. I already completed my medicals appointment with the doctor even before I had RFE in hand. The doctor said I will get sealed I-693 next week. I was merely pointing the fact that my RFE didn't have that particular language. I am doing my best to send RFE response ASAP.

[gten20]

Mine came from Reno, NV FO. Technically my FO is Detroit, MI but it was transferred to Reno, NV for load balancing...whatever that means.
Mysterious ways of USCIS! :)

[gten20]

With 4 yr expiration, there is no excuse to sit on medical RFE. Ideally by now, you have Doc identified and should be aware of overall process i.e have immunization records, be prepared for lab work, covid vaccination compelted. Moment you see med RFE, first call should be to Doc to setup appointment or Lab work permission unless you are dealing with personal stuff where GC is not top priority

Just want to point out that 4 year expiration only applies to applications that will be adjudicated by Sep 31, 2021.

[inspired_p]

Just want to point out that 4 year expiration only applies to applications that will be adjudicated by Sep 31, 2021.
That?s defeats the purpose of extending the validity. Are you sure that?s the case ? I believe they have extended that validity so that they don?t have to waste time adjudicating next year?s case load as all applicants will file medicals

[gten20]

That?s defeats the purpose of extending the validity. Are you sure that?s the case ? I believe they have extended that validity so that they don?t have to waste time adjudicating next year?s case load as all applicants will file medicals

https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/policy-manual-updates/20210812-I-693ValidityPeriod.pdf

[inspired_p]

https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/policy-manual-updates/20210812-I-693ValidityPeriod.pdf
Thank you , such a waste of an opportunity.this is do nothing for the application throughput for next year and this year most have already filed 485 with or without medicals

[gten20]

Thank you , such a waste of an opportunity.this is do nothing for the application throughput for next year and this year most have already filed 485 with or without medicals

It helps people who filed before Oct. 1, 2020 and have filed medical RFE after Sep. 30, 2017.

[montyp80]

Mysterious ways of USCIS! :)

Today I received text from USCIS that if I have received a RFE then I should send the response immediately via overnight courier.

Anywho, my RRFE was delivered to USCIS today! Let the game begin....

[inspired_p]

It helps people who filed before Oct. 1, 2020 and have filed medical RFE after Sep. 30, 2017.

I

Understood. There should be no 2012 filers still waiting anymore, it's sheer torture SMH

[ak7419]

I

Understood. There should be no 2012 filers still waiting anymore, it's sheer torture SMH

unfortunately, there are still handful of 2012 filers who are still waiting for RFE/adjudication.

[bangaloreboy]

A minor update: I finally received I-485J Fee Waived Receipt Notice yesterday...

[aGCHopefull]

A minor update: I finally received I-485J Fee Waived Receipt Notice yesterday...

Congratulations, receiving J/RFE has become like receiving GC :). Could you please share few digits (X) of your receipt #? 2190XXX****?

[mmax123]

Hello folks,

A quick update on my status, in case it helps anyone. Referencing my original message above.

My PERM approval came in on 8/9. My PD is March 2013 and I have been current in EB3 since August. Had a consultation with the attorney on 8/10. He recommended concurrent filing EB3 I140 PP + I485. I understand that it may not be optimal based on the forum guidance here (which was get EB3 I140 approved in PP first, then apply for I485 -- which will make I485 to go to NBC). The attorney mentioned that it would be the safest option to file concurrently. He gave me a choice. I decided to go ahead with his recommendation of concurrent filing.

Then ensued a mad rush to get all paperwork done. Attorney filed EB3 I140+I485+EAD+AP+Medicals on 8/18. I was pleasantly surprised that the law firm acted so fast. In my previous job, we had FMan as the legal firm, which would have easily taken a month or two for this paperwork.

I140 went to NSC. Received date 8/20. Approved on 9/1.

Got I797C for I485 from NSC for both my spouse & I. Received date is 8/20. Notice date is 8/24.

Now we wait for biometrics.


Another quick update. I was very much surprised today to see biometric letters in mailbox for both my spouse & I. We submitted applications only 3 weeks ago. I hope this means USCIS is picking up pace and application processing will get expedited for all of us. Details in signature.

Quick question: Does anyone know if we can walk in for biometrics before the appointment date? In the past, my attorneys had recommended my wife to walk in for H4EAD biometrics sooner than the appointment date. But the letters we got today state "Only military members may appear without an appointment". I will check with the attorney on Monday anyways, but curious if anyone on the forum knows about this.

EDIT: This post has been moved from I485 Information, details and scenario playout (https://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/2819-I485-Information-details-and-scenario-playout?p=84950&viewfull=1#post84950) since I think that was more appropriate.

[bangaloreboy]

Congratulations, receiving J/RFE has become like receiving GC :). Could you please share few digits (X) of your receipt #? 2190XXX****?

Sure, its MSC21906XXXXX.
I checked with Emma and was informed that my application is still with NBC. Considering that recent pattern involves transfer to FO, RFE, response and interview in some cases, it appears the destination is not near yet.
Good luck to you!

[gten20]

A minor update: I finally received I-485J Fee Waived Receipt Notice yesterday...
I received medical RFE in 2.5 weeks after I-485J waived Receipt notice. The general trend I heard was that you will get RFE in 4-5 weeks after I-485J. I got mine in 2.5 weeks. I hope you get it sooner, now that USCIS is trying to utilize as much quota as possible.

[aGCHopefull]

Sure, its MSC21906XXXXX.
I checked with Emma and was informed that my application is still with NBC. Considering that recent pattern involves transfer to FO, RFE, response and interview in some cases, it appears the destination is not near yet.
Good luck to you!

Thanks.

Usual trend is: after 485j receipt, file is transferred to a FO, that's where medical RFE (if needed) is generated. As @GTen20 has mentioned, trend has been 3-4 weeks from J receipt. So be on lookout for that. At least you can get your medical test done now.

[aGCHopefull]

I received medical RFE in 2.5 weeks after I-485J waived Receipt notice. The general trend I heard was that you will get RFE in 4-5 weeks after I-485J. I got mine in 2.5 weeks. I hope you get it sooner, now that USCIS is trying to utilize as much quota as possible.

Hopefully, you get approval in next few days. Good luck!!
Which FO you got RFE from?

[monsieur]

Quick question: Does anyone know if we can walk in for biometrics before the appointment date? In the past, my attorneys had recommended my wife to walk in for H4EAD biometrics sooner than the appointment date. But the letters we got today state "Only military members may appear without an appointment". I will check with the attorney on Monday anyways, but curious if anyone on the forum knows about this.


Coz of covid, no more walk-ins. At time of entry a personnel will check your appointment letter and then will let you in.

[mmax123]

Coz of covid, no more walk-ins. At time of entry a personnel will check your appointment letter and then will let you in.

Noted. Thanks again monsieur!

[gten20]

Hopefully, you get approval in next few days. Good luck!!
Which FO you got RFE from?

I got RFE from my Local FO. Thanks, I too hope that USCIS processes it quickly. My law firm wasted 3 days by asking me to mail the sealed I-693 to their office instead of responding to the RFE myself. They were adamant about it. I guess they wanted to milk my company one more time on my application. It was so frustrating. I so badly wanted to write them a email, that I will send you a $1000 check, just let me file it myself. :)

They mailed the RFE respone on Friday and told me that USCIS received it today. Fingers Crossed!

Did you get I-485J receipt/RFE yet?

[aGCHopefull]

I got RFE from my Local FO. Thanks, I too hope that USCIS processes it quickly. My law firm wasted 3 days by asking me to mail the sealed I-693 to their office instead of responding to the RFE myself. They were adamant about it. I guess they wanted to milk my company one more time on my application. It was so frustrating. I so badly wanted to write them a email, that I will send you a $1000 check, just let me file it myself. :)

They mailed the RFE respone on Friday and told me that USCIS received it today. Fingers Crossed!

Did you get I-485J receipt/RFE yet?

Yes, the attorneys won't leave any chance to delay it / milk more. Anyways, good it has been received by USCIS.

I am still waiting for both J receipt and RFE, not sure what's wrong.

[gten20]

Yes, the attorneys won't leave any chance to delay it / milk more. Anyways, good it has been received by USCIS.

I am still waiting for both J receipt and RFE, not sure what's wrong.

It's painful. Hang in there! It will happen soon. A couple of my friends who filed I-485 around 25-30 Oct, 2020 had received I-485 Fee waiver notice in April-May 2021. Since June I have been losing my mind for no progress. I was chatting with Emma Live Agents at least 2 times a week to check status of EAD/AP, I-485 and I-485J. Around early August I just gave up and decided that it will happen when it has to happen. Then all of a sudden I got I-485J fee waiver notice on Aug. 11. Then on Saturday, Aug 28 I got SMS alert for the RFE. Hoping things move quickly now, but you never know with USCIS. But I think EB2/EB3 applications with 2010 dates that were filed Oct/Nov 2020 should get GC's by Dec. 2021, especially because the dates are probably not going to move until Jan 2022 Visa Bulletin.

[inspired_p]

unfortunately, there are still handful of 2012 filers who are still waiting for RFE/adjudication.

I hope your case gets some traction soon ! Your case is a personification of the torture I was mentioning.

[aGCHopefull]

I hope your case gets some traction soon ! Your case is a personification of the torture I was mentioning.

I believe AK's case has been approved (2-3 weeks ago). That's a relief for AK but definitely there are lot many 2009 pending.

[aGCHopefull]

It's painful. Hang in there! It will happen soon. A couple of my friends who filed I-485 around 25-30 Oct, 2020 had received I-485 Fee waiver notice in April-May 2021. Since June I have been losing my mind for no progress. I was chatting with Emma Live Agents at least 2 times a week to check status of EAD/AP, I-485 and I-485J. Around early August I just gave up and decided that it will happen when it has to happen. Then all of a sudden I got I-485J fee waiver notice on Aug. 11. Then on Saturday, Aug 28 I got SMS alert for the RFE. Hoping things move quickly now, but you never know with USCIS. But I think EB2/EB3 applications with 2010 dates that were filed Oct/Nov 2020 should get GC's by Dec. 2021, especially because the dates are probably not going to move until Jan 2022 Visa Bulletin.

Yes, same feeling here. have stopped checking with Emma now (have given up on her :confused: ) anyway can't get accurate information from Emma)
Just hoping some fine day, a mail will be dropped in my mailbox too.

[08jul11]

Gurus: my PD is 7/8/2011 -EB2. I?m current since September 1st and my employer is filing with Medicals.

Do you think skipping EAD and AP will speed up the process?

Thanks

[cool_dude]

Finally got card yesterday after 16 years

[gsingh]

Another quick update. I was very much surprised today to see biometric letters in mailbox for both my spouse & I. We submitted applications only 3 weeks ago. I hope this means USCIS is picking up pace and application processing will get expedited for all of us. Details in signature.

Quick question: Does anyone know if we can walk in for biometrics before the appointment date? In the past, my attorneys had recommended my wife to walk in for H4EAD biometrics sooner than the appointment date. But the letters we got today state "Only military members may appear without an appointment". I will check with the attorney on Monday anyways, but curious if anyone on the forum knows about this.

EDIT: This post has been moved from I485 Information, details and scenario playout (https://www.qesehmk.org/forums/showthread.php/2819-I485-Information-details-and-scenario-playout?p=84950&viewfull=1#post84950) since I think that was more appropriate.

I had travel plans on the appointment date so I went for the biometrics 2 weeks earlier.
No questions asked. The receipt notice was checked at the entry but I doubt if they closely looked at the actual date.

No harm in trying as long as you don't mind the inconvenience of having to go back again on the appointment date , incase they don't let you in.

[newyorker123]

Hello Gurus,

My PD is EB2 Feb 2012, just realized that I can actually file I485 now.
Questions:
1) There is no use of an EB3 downgrade for me any more, is that right ? Specially given that they have sounded the retrogression warning for EB3.
2) Given that a bunch of people are going to file I485 now in the EB2 category, does anyone have an idea when I could get EAD if I file I485 in October. GC looks far fetched, will be fine with EAD

[mmax123]

I had travel plans on the appointment date so I went for the biometrics 2 weeks earlier.
No questions asked. The receipt notice was checked at the entry but I doubt if they closely looked at the actual date.

No harm in trying as long as you don't mind the inconvenience of having to go back again on the appointment date , incase they don't let you in.

Noted. Thank you.

My lawyer confirmed they stopped doing walk in due to COVID-19.

But per your suggestion, I'll try anyways. Worst case I'll waste an hour. ASC is only 15 minutes away.

[gten20]

Finally got card yesterday after 16 years

Congratulations!

[GCGCGCGC]

Congratulations!!!

[aGCHopefull]

Finally got card yesterday after 16 years



Congratulations!!

[gten20]

USCIS received my RFE response pkg. on 09/13/21. Today - 09/15/21 - my application status got updated to "Response To USCIS' Request For Evidence Was Received".

[gammaray]

USCIS received my RFE response pkg. on 09/13/21. Today - 09/15/21 - my application status got updated to "Response To USCIS' Request For Evidence Was Received".

I would say another week or so and you should see approval.

[newsletter1978]

Thanks for sharing your info. did you file 485 application in October 2020 or before ?

Oct 29 2020

[aGCHopefull]

USCIS received my RFE response pkg. on 09/13/21. Today - 09/15/21 - my application status got updated to "Response To USCIS' Request For Evidence Was Received".

That sounds like a good progress. Hopefully your case would be approved with in a week. Good luck!!

[mohan_jgd]

I received medical RFE in 2.5 weeks after I-485J waived Receipt notice. The general trend I heard was that you will get RFE in 4-5 weeks after I-485J. I got mine in 2.5 weeks. I hope you get it sooner, now that USCIS is trying to utilize as much quota as possible.

I too got my I-485J notice 2.5 weeks back. Keeping fingers crossed to get the medical RFE this week or next. My receipt number is in MSC21907* series.

[gten20]

I too got my I-485J notice 2.5 weeks back. Keeping fingers crossed to get the medical RFE this week or next. My receipt number is in MSC21907* series.

Get your medicals done and ready to mail out the day your receive RFE in hand.

[mohan_jgd]

Get your medicals done and ready to mail out the day your receive RFE in hand.

Yes, thats the plan. Thanks

[inspired_p]

I believe AK's case has been approved (2-3 weeks ago). That's a relief for AK but definitely there are lot many 2009 pending.

Awesome !! Hope USCIS does not waste another 80K visas next year as it did this year

[mmax123]

We tried to walk in at the San Francisco ASC last week. They turned us back and asked us to come at the appointed time or reschedule with USCIS. Oh well, we tried.

[rsnake]

It's been a couple of weeks late but posting my timeline to help others. Looks like I got lucky with getting approval in mid sept with 12/30/2020 RD. Good luck to all, and thanks for the discussions and help here.

PD - 01/03/2011 EB2
RD - 12/30/2020 with medicals
ND - 02/28 from NBC MSC9085xxxx
BM - 05/20
485J - 08/05
EAD/AP - 09/01
GC Card being produced - 9/14 No Interview or RFE
Local FO: DC/Fairfax
Transferred to Charlotte FO according to Emma chat on Aug 31

These are all Emma chats
Aug 23 - Case is at DC FO, went there on Aug 19th
Aug 25 - Case is at NBC
Aug 27 - Case is at DC FO
Aug 30 - Big wall of text saying you're not privy to inside USCIS information about where case is, it's not useful to predict case processing blah blah
Aug 31- Case is at Charlotte, can't tell when it got transferred

[aGCHopefull]

It's been a couple of weeks late but posting my timeline to help others. Looks like I got lucky with getting approval in mid sept with 12/30/2020 RD. Good luck to all, and thanks for the discussions and help here.

PD - 01/03/2011 EB2
RD - 12/30/2020 with medicals
ND - 02/28 from NBC MSC9085xxxx
BM - 05/20
485J - 08/05
EAD/AP - 09/01
GC Card being produced - 9/14 No Interview or RFE
Local FO: DC/Fairfax
Transferred to Charlotte FO according to Emma chat on Aug 31

These are all Emma chats
Aug 23 - Case is at DC FO, went there on Aug 19th
Aug 25 - Case is at NBC
Aug 27 - Case is at DC FO
Aug 30 - Big wall of text saying you're not privy to inside USCIS information about where case is, it's not useful to predict case processing blah blah
Aug 31- Case is at Charlotte, can't tell when it got transferred

Congratulations!!

[Noesis]

It's been a couple of weeks late but posting my timeline to help others. Looks like I got lucky with getting approval in mid sept with 12/30/2020 RD. Good luck to all, and thanks for the discussions and help here.

PD - 01/03/2011 EB2
RD - 12/30/2020 with medicals
ND - 02/28 from NBC MSC9085xxxx
BM - 05/20
485J - 08/05
EAD/AP - 09/01
GC Card being produced - 9/14 No Interview or RFE
Local FO: DC/Fairfax
Transferred to Charlotte FO according to Emma chat on Aug 31

These are all Emma chats
Aug 23 - Case is at DC FO, went there on Aug 19th
Aug 25 - Case is at NBC
Aug 27 - Case is at DC FO
Aug 30 - Big wall of text saying you're not privy to inside USCIS information about where case is, it's not useful to predict case processing blah blah
Aug 31- Case is at Charlotte, can't tell when it got transferred

Many Congratulations.!

[newyorker123]

Now that all the dates are settled around 2012, will most people in 2009/2010/2011 get Green Cards by 2022 ?

What happens to people with 2012 PD - Get Green cards, or endless wait with EADs ? [My PD: Jan 2012]

Any calculations, anyone ?

[rohanvus]

From a visa bulletin / DOS point of view, Jan 2012 should become current in the next couple of bulletins as it has already reached Dec 2011. Getting the GC is a different story, but, I feel that is possible for Jan 2012 EB2 in this fiscal year as the FAD will reach Jan 2013 by the end of this fiscal year.

Hey Sling , did you get your 485 receipt already ?

[sling10]

Hey Sling , did you get your 485 receipt already ?

Check out my signature. I am still waiting. What about you ?