Case Status Update: Delayed U & T Visa Processing Times

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Due to new ICE policy, we encourage all U Visa and T Visa clients to carry your case paperwork (such as Receipt or Approval notices) on you at all times. You may be required to show these documents in an encounter with ICE in order to prove your pending or approved status.

Processing times at USCIS have grown in recent years and are subject to change due to the current administration and other factors. We want to reassure you that your case is in queue to be processed, and provide you with some helpful information.

We must first recognize the frustration our clients may be feeling as we wait for your case to be decided. Please know that we check all client case statuses several times per month, and take action when we see a case has exceeded its posted normal processing time.

U Visas are taking 19-32 months with inquiries at: August 2023. —Note: This date reflects an estimate for bona fide determination, not full approval, as USCIS does not publish full approval dates. Please follow this link for our informative video on Bona Fide Determination: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReI9cpySfj4

T Visas are taking 29-32 months with inquiries at: August 2023

As a reminder, you can check your case status at https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do at any time, using just your case Receipt Number. Your overall processing time is typically based on your receipt date and which USCIS office is processing your case. Your receipt number can be found near the top of your Form I-797C Receipt Notice, and will include three letters followed by ten numbers (example: IOE1234567890). Your Receipt Date can also be found on the same notice.

SPECIAL NOTES FOR U Visa and T Visa Principal Applicants:

  • For U Visas, the above information refers to bona fide determination, not full approval.

  • If you applied for a U or T Visa as the principal applicant, a new rule has opened up the opportunity for certain “After-Acquired Spouses” to apply now as a derivatives to your case and potentially obtain visas as well through you. If you are thinking of getting married, we highly recommend meeting with Attorney Soberalski first in order to consider all risks.

  • Derivative applicants should always consult with Attorney Soberalski before marrying, as it could jeopardize your own ability to qualify for a U or T visa.

  • Please also reach out if you believe you may qualify to expedite your application based on severe medical or financial hardship.

  • If you already have your work permit through a pending U or T visa, we urge you to check your expiration date and file for a renewal if it expires within 10-12 months. 

Our Case Manager for matters with pending U Visas is Leslie Monreal Avina.

Our Case Manager for filing U Visas is Wendy Banicki.

Our Case Manager for filing T Visas is Daniel Gutierrez.

USCISMelissa SoberalskiU Visa, T Visa, Immigration