by Ashley Lively

NewsFebruary 14, 20190 comments

USCIS Backlog

Why is My Immigration Petition Taking So Long?

Is your immigration petition taking longer than expected? A new policy brief published by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) that analyzes USCIS processing times may explain why. The brief reveals that the agency has reached “crisis” level delays in the processing of immigration petitions. These delays have worsened during the current administration. According to the report, the most vulnerable populations of these delays are—immigrant families (SIJS petitions), domestic abuse survivors (U visas), and persons seeking humanitarian aid (asylums).

The report finds that overall, average case processing time has increased by 46 percent over the past two fiscal years and 91 percent since Fiscal Year 2014. Additionally, the report finds that USCIS’s net backlog at the end of Fiscal Year 2017 was its highest on record. According to the report, decisions made under the current administration have exacerbated delays. For example, refugee case adjudications were overhauled; in-person interviews are now a requirement for employment-based green card applications and Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petitions; a new Notice to Appear (NTA) policy was put into place which resulted in individuals being put into deportation proceedings when their application was denied; and a policy of arresting spouses of United States citizens who appear at a USCIS office for an interview in connection with their Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, which if approved would form the basis for lawful permanent residence.

Now more than ever it is important to file your immigration petitions correctly as any error on your part could increase an already “crisis” level delay. Lively Law Firm can help you file your application correctly the first time and avoid unnecessary delay. Call now for your free consultation!