My USCIS case is stuck, or I moved
Check, ask, escalate, and keep your address current.
4 steps
Step 1 of 4: Keep your address current
A missed letter can hurt a case.
- Tell USCIS you movedMoved? Tell USCIS within 10 days. It is free, it takes a few minutes online, and it keeps your cards and notices from going to an old address. If you have an immigration court case, the court needs its own notice. Here is every step, and who else to tell.Guide
- Moving checklist for immigrantsPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 2 of 4: Push a slow case in order
Check processing times, ask, then escalate.
- When your USCIS case is taking too longWaiting with no news is exhausting. You do have moves, and they work best in order: check your status and the official wait time, ask USCIS once your case is past it, ask to speed it up if you qualify, then bring in your member of Congress, the CIS Ombudsman, or a lawyer. Here's each step and when to use it.Guide
- USCIS case follow up log and call scriptPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 3 of 4: Get a copy of your file if you need it
You can ask for your own immigration records.
- Get your immigration recordsYou have a right to ask the government for your own immigration records, and it is free for most people. Your main file (the A file) comes from USCIS. Border and entry records come from CBP. Detention records come from ICE. Court files come from the immigration court. Visa records come from the State Department. Since January 22, 2026, most of these requests must be made online.Guide
- Records request worksheetPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 4 of 4: Get help from a person
You do not have to do this alone. Ask about cost, languages and current openings before you share documents.
This page puts DNLH guides in a useful order. It is general information, not legal advice. Each guide shows its sources and the date its facts were checked.
Not quite your situation?
All situations- ICE detained someone in my familyFind them, get legal help and keep the family going.6 steps
- I want to be ready if agents come to my door, work or carYour rights, what to carry and how to report.5 steps
- I got a court date or a Notice to AppearUnderstand the notice, never miss a hearing, find a lawyer.5 steps
- I want a plan in case I am separated from my childrenWho cares for them, the forms, money and talking with kids.5 steps
Show 4 more situations
- I want to know if I have a path to papersYour status today, the main paths and getting screened safely.5 steps
- I have a green card and want to become a citizenCheck first, apply, study and prepare for the interview.6 steps
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- A notario, consultant or lawyer hurt my caseProtect your case, report it and try to get your money back.4 steps