The immigration timeline tracker shows estimated processing times and key milestones for major US immigration processes. Select your current immigration stage to see what comes next.
Select Your Immigration Process
Quick Reference: Common USCIS Processing Times
| Form | Purpose | Regular | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-129 | H-1B, L-1, O-1 petition | 3–6 months | 15 bus. days |
| I-140 | Immigrant petition | 6–12 months | 15 bus. days |
| I-485 | Adjustment of status | 12–36 months | N/A |
| I-765 | EAD (work permit) | 3–6 months | N/A |
| I-131 | Advance Parole | 3–9 months | N/A |
| N-400 | Naturalization | 8–18 months | N/A |
How to Track Your Immigration Case Status
The immigration timeline tracker gives you estimated ranges, but your actual timeline depends on USCIS office processing backlogs, your application completeness, and any RFEs (Requests for Evidence).
How to Check Your Case Status
Use your receipt number (format: EAC-XX-XXX-XXXXX or LIN-XX-XXX-XXXXX) to check case status at egov.uscis.gov. If your case is outside normal processing times (check at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times), you may submit an e-Request inquiry after waiting the published time for your specific form and service center.
When to Request an Expedite
USCIS grants expedite requests in limited circumstances: severe financial loss, urgent humanitarian reasons, nonprofit benefit to US, USCIS error, or DoD/military need. Expedite requests are not guaranteed and should be supported with documentation. For non-emergencies, premium processing (where available) is the fastest reliable option.
FAQ
Is this immigration timeline tracker free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.
How do I check official USCIS processing times?
Visit egov.uscis.gov/processing-times to see current USCIS processing times by form type and field office. Times update monthly and vary significantly by office — some have 6-month wait times while others process the same form in 3 months.
What is the H-1B lottery and how does it work?
The H-1B cap-subject visa has 85,000 slots per year (65,000 regular + 20,000 for US master's degree holders). Demand consistently exceeds supply. USCIS runs an annual lottery in March — petitions selected in the lottery can be filed April 1 for an October 1 start date. Selection in the lottery does not guarantee visa approval.
How long does citizenship take after getting a green card?
Naturalization requires 5 years as a permanent resident (3 years if married to and living with a US citizen). Add 8-18 months for the naturalization application process. Total from green card approval to citizenship oath: 6.5-7 years minimum for most paths.
What is premium processing and which forms qualify?
Premium processing guarantees USCIS will process your petition within 15 business days (or refund the fee and continue processing). Cost is $2,805 per petition (2025). Available for I-129 (H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN), I-140, and some EAD renewals. It does not guarantee approval — it only guarantees faster adjudication.
What happens if my H-1B expires while I-485 is pending?
H-1B holders with a pending I-485 can continue working if they filed for and received an EAD (Employment Authorization Document). Once your I-485 has been pending for 180+ days, AC21 portability allows you to change jobs or employers without jeopardizing the green card case.