So you want to come to the United States. Or maybe you’re in the United States and want to stay. The obvious thing to do is apply for a visa or maybe an application for an immigration benefit. But… how much time do you have? Because US immigration cases are taking a looooong time. Maybe longer than you can wait or longer than you want to wait. If you don’t believe me, just go onto the USCIS webpage and look at some average processing times.

Need a new employment authorization card so that you can work legally? Cool. Sit tight for 3 to 6 to 20 months.

Been the victim of a crime and helping out the police with the investigation? How does a 5 year wait sound? And that’s just to get to a temporary work permit. There is still more waiting after that!

Did you lose your Permanent Resident Card and need a new one? As in, just print a new one. Nothing challenging about that, right? Even the DMV can print a driver’s license in like 15 minutes. USCIS currently takes 20 months to get you a replacement card.

And keep in mind, these are just average processing times. It can definitely take longer. In fact, USCIS won’t even accept inquiries until well after the “average” processing time has passed. This is why it can become necessary to take matters into your own hands. Here are 3 tips for speeding up your case if you don’t want to just sit around twiddling your thumbs:

1. File a request to expedite with USCIS. But know why you’re filing and have it well-documented. USCIS will consider expediting cases in certain situations (like for humanitarian emergencies or severe financial loss). Check out this webpage for more details.
2. Contact your US Senator or Congressman and request assistance in expediting your case. Similar to USCIS, they’ll want to know your reason so make sure it’s a clear reason and that it’s well- To find your US Senator or Congressman based on where you live, check out this page.
3. Hire a lawyer to file a Writ of Mandamus. This is a lawsuit that you file in court, asking that the court order USCIS to make a decision on your case.

Following any of these steps does not guarantee a positive or negative outcome in your case, but what it can do is get you a decision in your case faster than those that are just sitting around and waiting.

Last Updated: 4.15.2023 (*Note that immigration rules, regulations, and practices change frequently. Make sure to check for updated information since the posting of this article.)