Understanding USCIS Processing Times

Learn how USCIS processing times work, where to check them, and what to do if your case is delayed.

Last Updated: April 25, 2025

Summary

Processing times are the estimated number of months USCIS takes to decide a case.
They vary by:

🔵 Some cases move faster, while others take longer depending on workload.

Example:

Form I-485 at Nebraska Service Center:
Estimated time range: 12 months to 24.5 months

USCIS now shows two numbers:

The first number is how long it usually takes for 50% of cases (median time).
The second number is how long it takes for 93% of cases.

✅ Your case could be processed anytime between these two numbers.

Compare your filing date to the current processing time posted.
If your case has been pending longer than the "Case Inquiry Date", you can:

✅ Submit a Case Inquiry online
✅ Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283

Case Inquiry Date = the earliest date you can officially ask USCIS to investigate a delay.

Premium Processing is available for some employment-based petitions but not for family-based forms like I-485.
Processing times can change based on demand — increases and decreases happen regularly.