Since December 2024, many applicants have faced long waits for receipt notices after filing petitions under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), as well as U and T visa categories. These delays disrupt the process for survivors of violence, trafficking, and other vulnerable individuals who rely on timely processing.
USCIS Timeline Expectations vs. Reality
USCIS guidelines state that receipt notices should arrive within 30 to 60 days after filing. In practice, however, many applicants now wait 60 to 90 days or even longer. Some cases have exceeded 100 days without a receipt. These delays block applicants from tracking their petitions and accessing follow-up benefits like work permits or deferred action.
Why Receipt Notices Matter
For many immigrants, especially survivors, a receipt notice does more than confirm submission. It allows applicants to prove they are pursuing legal relief. Delays in issuing these notices can lead to missed opportunities and increased risk—particularly for those who face urgent needs or expiring statuses.
Contacting USCIS About Delays
Applicants and legal representatives can contact USCIS using special hotlines for VAWA, U, and T cases. These contact details are listed on the USCIS Contact Us page. If the wait exceeds 45 days, USCIS encourages outreach. For faster attention, email subject lines should include terms like “URGENT” or “DEADLINE.” However, as of late 2024, USCIS has reported response times of up to 120 days for hotline inquiries.
What You Can Do
If your receipt notice is overdue, take these steps:
- Verify that your package was sent to the correct USCIS address.
- Confirm that the filing was complete and met all requirements.
- Contact the relevant USCIS hotline after 45 days have passed.
- Mark urgent messages clearly to highlight time-sensitive issues.
Stay Proactive
USCIS has not yet released a public explanation for the delays, but reports indicate the agency is reviewing the problem. In the meantime, applicants should document their submissions, follow up regularly, and speak with a legal representative for guidance.
At Ahluwalia Law Offices, we understand how critical these filings are. We support our clients through every delay and complication, providing clear steps and strong advocacy.
