¿Qué puedo hacer si mi caso de inmigración tarda una eternidad en procesarse?

Angelica Rice • July 14, 2023

Click here to read this article in English

    La COVID-19 ha impactado muchas áreas de nuestras vidas y, lamentablemente, esto también incluye el trabajo realizado por USCIS. Anteriormente, los tiempos de procesamiento eran algo razonables, pero últimamente algunos casos tardan un año o más en procesarse cuando el tiempo de procesamiento original era mucho más corto. Peor aún, algunos casos parecen haber desaparecido por completo del radar de la agencia y USCIS no está tomando ninguna medida al respecto. ¿Qué puede hacer para tratar de avanzar en su caso?


Llame al centro de contacto de USCIS y realice una consulta sobre el estado de su caso.

El número de contacto de USCIS es 1 (800) 375 5283.


    Si su caso está fuera de los tiempos de procesamiento normalmente publicados (lo que significa que ha estado pendiente durante más tiempo que el tiempo de procesamiento publicado para su tipo de solicitud), puede llamar al número de teléfono indicado, hablar con un oficial y hacer una consulta sobre lo que está sucediendo y la razón de por qué se está demorando el procesamiento de su caso.


  • Presentar una Solicitud de Defensor del Pueblo


    Si la consulta a USCIS no funciona, puede realizar una Solicitud de Ombudsman. La Oficina del Defensor del Pueblo de los Servicios de Ciudadanía e Inmigración (CIS Ombudsman) ayuda a las personas y a los empleadores a resolver las dificultades que están experimentando con los Servicios de Ciudadanía e Inmigración de los Estados Unidos (USCIS). Las solicitudes del Defensor del Pueblo generalmente reciben una respuesta dentro de unas pocas semanas o meses después de haber sido enviadas.


https://www.dhs.gov/topic/cis-ombudsman/forms/7001#no-back


  • Póngase en contacto con un representante del Congreso

    Si enviar una Solicitud de Ombudsman no funciona, puede comunicarse con su representante local en el Congreso de su distrito y solicitar asistencia con su caso de inmigración.


    El primer paso para acceder a la asistencia del Congreso es encontrar el nombre y la información de contacto del representante del Congreso en este sitio web: www.house.gov. En la sección superior derecha de la pantalla, debe haber un mensaje que diga "Ingrese su código postal". Una vez que ingrese su código postal, debe aparecer el nombre y la información de contacto de su representante.


    La información de contacto de la asistencia del Congreso suele ser una dirección de correo electrónico y un número de teléfono, aunque generalmente se prefiere el correo electrónico. Una vez que se haya contactado con el representante del Congreso y le explique la situación, el congresista le informará sobre cualquier formulario o documento que deba presentar. Si se presentare una solicitud de agilización a través de la oficina del Congreso, la oficina del Congreso requerirá los documentos que demuestren las razones para el procesamiento acelerado.


    Uno de los formularios generales que se requiere para todas las consultas con el representante del Congreso es la renuncia a la privacidad. Una oficina del Congreso no puede comunicarse con USCIS con respecto a una solicitud de inmigrante sin el permiso del solicitante. Esta renuncia les otorga el permiso para acceder a la aplicación y la información que tiene USCIS. En consecuencia, se debe completar una exención de privacidad que requiere: información sobre el caso, el número de caso de USCIS, información de identificación general, un resumen de la situación, los esfuerzos realizados para resolver el problema y cualquier otro documento clave. Esta exención permitiría al congresista proporcionar actualizaciones sobre la solicitud en cuestión.


    A partir de ese momento, el congresista debería poder guiar al solicitante en la dirección correcta para cualquier actualización o documentos adicionales que se requieran. USCIS generalmente resuelve los casos dentro de los 30 días posteriores a la solicitud enviada por la oficina del Congreso, ya sea por correo electrónico o correspondencia escrita.

  • Un último recurso: Presentar un Auto de Acción de Mandamus


    En inmigración, un mandamus es generalmente una demanda civil contra los Servicios de Ciudadanía e Inmigración de los Estados Unidos (USCIS) en un Tribunal Federal.

Esta demanda le pide a la corte que obligue a la agencia de inmigración a tomar una decisión sobre la solicitud o petición del demandante inmigrante.
Además de USCIS, la orden judicial también le permite presentar una demanda contra otras agencias estadounidenses, como:


- La Oficina Federal de Investigaciones (FBI);

- El Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS), y

- Consulados o embajadas de los Estados Unidos.


    La medida cautelar se puede utilizar en los casos en que ha habido una demora irrazonable o una suspensión ilegal de la acción.

    Este tipo de acción debe requerir como último recurso, después de que se hayan explorado a fondo otros medios.


    Para decidir si una de estas opciones es adecuada para usted, comuníquese con nuestra oficina y consulte a uno de nuestros profesionales de inmigración altamente experimentados.


Este blog no busca constituir una asesoría legal y nada de lo que aquí lea debe interpretarse como el establecimiento de una relación abogado-cliente. Programe una consulta con un abogado de inmigración antes de actuar basado en cualquier información contenida en el presente.

Angelica Rice

Navigating Family-Based Immigration: Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

By Denice Flores • July 10, 2025
Family-based immigration remains one of the most common paths to lawful permanent residency in the United States. It offers a lifeline to families hoping to reunite across borders, but the process is far from simple. The outcome of the applications can be delayed as a result of potential missteps while preparing the applications. Here are some of the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them: Incomplete or Inaccurate Forms One frequent mistake is submitting incomplete or inaccurate information on the forms like the I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and the I-485 (Adjustment of Status). Even minor errors such as misspelled names, missing signatures, or incorrect dates—can result in Requests for Evidence. To avoid this misstep, double-check all entries, cross-reference documents, and consult with an attorney before submission. Remember, immigration forms are legal documents so accuracy matters. Insufficient Supporting Evidence Proving a genuine familial relationship is the basis of family-based petitions. For spousal cases, USCIS looks closely at evidence of a bona fide marriage. Little or no supporting documents and evidence may lead to Requests for Evidence and even skepticism from USCIS. To establish a bona fide marriage, include documentation to show shared finances and liabilities. Filing Under the Wrong Category or Preference There are different immigration paths depending on whether the petitioner is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and whether the beneficiary is a spouse, child, sibling, or parent. Each category has different processing times and visa availability. It is critical that before applying, you understand which preference category applies to your case. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, parents, unmarried children under 21) generally receive faster processing and are not subject to annual visa caps. Not Disclosing Past Immigration or Criminal History Many applicants fail to account for past immigration violations such as visa overstays, unauthorized work, or prior removal orders. Similarly, if you fail to disclose past criminal history and these issues surface later in the process they can affect the outcome of the case. Disclose everything to your attorney, no matter how minor or old the issue seems. Prior violations don’t always mean denial but not disclosing them may lead to serious consequences. If you're considering filing a family-based petition, consult with an experienced immigration attorney at our office. Our office is committed to helping families navigate this complex process with clarity and confidence.

Understanding the Public Charge Rule: What Public Benefits May or May Not Impact Your Immigration Case

By Angelica Rice • July 3, 2025
When applying for a green card or seeking admission into the United States, one of the legal hurdles many applicants may face is the public charge ground of inadmissibility. This test evaluates whether someone is likely to become primarily dependent on the government for support. But what exactly does that mean—and what types of public benefits can trigger this issue? In this article, we’ll break down what “public charge” really means, who is affected, what types of public benefits are considered, and what immigrants should be mindful of when making decisions about public programs like Medi-Cal and Medicaid. What Is the Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility? The public charge rule applies to individuals applying for a visa, green card (adjustment of status), or entry into the U.S., unless they fall into an exempt category. Under this rule, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must determine whether the applicant is likely to become primarily dependent on the government for subsistence. This typically refers to receiving: Public cash assistance for income maintenance (such as SSI or TANF), or Long-term institutional care at government expense. This determination is based on the "totality of circumstances," including age, health, financial resources, education, skills, and whether a sponsor has submitted a valid Affidavit of Support. Who Is Exempt from the Public Charge Rule? Many categories of immigrants are exempt from the public charge ground of inadmissibility. These include: Asylees and refugees Special immigrant juveniles Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners T and U visa applicants Temporary Protected Status (TPS) applicants Importantly, even if someone later adjusts status through a different pathway that is subject to public charge, any benefits they received while in an exempt category will not be held against them. What Public Benefits Are Not Considered in the Public Charge Test? It is a common and harmful myth that using any public benefit will jeopardize your immigration status. In fact, most non-cash benefits do not count against you in a public charge determination. According to USCIS and DHS guidance, the following types of assistance (current as of July 1, 2025) are not considered: Health-Related Benefits Medi-Cal/Medicaid, except for long-term institutional care Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Health insurance through the ACA Marketplace, including subsidies COVID-19 testing, vaccines, and treatment Community health services, crisis counseling, and short-term shelters Food and Nutrition SNAP (Food Stamps) WIC School meal programs Food banks and emergency food assistance Housing and Energy Emergency shelter Rental assistance (e.g., McKinney-Vento programs) Energy assistance (e.g., LIHEAP) Education and Childcare Public schooling Head Start Childcare subsidies (e.g., CCDF) Educational grants and scholarships Federal Cash and Tax Benefits Earned income tax credit (EITC) Child Tax Credit (CTC) Stimulus checks Unemployment insurance Social Security and veteran’s benefits Disaster and pandemic-related cash aid In short, just because a benefit is public or government-funded doesn’t automatically make it count against you. A Word of Caution About Medi-Cal and Medicaid, in Particular As of today (07/01/2025), standard use of Medi-Cal (California’s version of Medicaid) or Medicaid for most health-related services is not considered in a public charge determination. This includes preventative care, emergency services, pregnancy-related services, and short-term care. However, if Medicaid is used for long-term institutionalization, such as in a nursing home or psychiatric facility, that does count under the public charge test. Despite current guidance, we are seeing political shifts and changes in tone from the current administration that suggest public charge policies may become more restrictive in the future. This includes renewed interest in expanding the types of public benefits that may be considered, particularly around medical assistance. For that reason, we generally recommend that individuals who are applying for adjustment of status, or who may be subject to the public charge ground in the future, avoid enrolling in Medi-Cal or Medicaid at this time, unless absolutely necessary. Final Thoughts Immigration law is complex, and the rules surrounding public charge can feel confusing or even frightening. But it’s important to understand that using most public benefits—especially for food, education, and healthcare—will not automatically jeopardize your green card or visa application. Still, because policy can change quickly, we urge individuals to consult with an immigration attorney before applying for any public assistance—especially healthcare programs like Medi-Cal or Medicaid. If you have questions or concerns about how public benefits might impact your immigration case, our office is here to help. We are committed to providing up-to-date, personalized guidance to keep your immigration journey on track. Disclaimer The information provided herein is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every immigration case is unique, and the application of the public charge rule may vary depending on your specific situation. If you believe this topic may apply to you or you need individualized legal guidance, we encourage you to contact one of our highly-qualified legal professionals for a consultation and assistance tailored to your circumstances. Resources: USCIS Public Charge Resources ILRC Medi-Cal and Public Charge Alert (2024) California Medi-Cal Immigrant Eligibility FAQ

EB-2 and EB-3 Green Cards: What Corporate Employees Should Understand

By Shirin Navabi • June 26, 2025
As an immigration law firm, we regularly assist highly skilled professionals working in the U.S. on temporary work visas such as H-1B who are seeking a path to permanent residency. For many of these individuals, the EB-2 and EB-3 employment-based green card categories are the most pursued—and frequently misunderstood—routes . While both are viable pathways to permanent residency, they differ in meaningful ways that can significantly impact the timing, eligibility, and overall strategy of your case. The EB-2 category is intended for individuals who either hold an advanced degree or demonstrate exceptional ability in their field . Most applicants qualify by having a master’s degree (or higher), or a bachelor’s degree accompanied by at least five years of progressive experience in their profession. There is also a subcategory within EB-2 known as the National Interest Waiver (NIW), which allows qualified individuals to self-petition without employer sponsorship if their work substantially benefits the United States. This route is especially relevant for researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals in high national interest or mission-critical fields. In contrast, the EB-3 category includes professionals with a bachelor’s degree as well as skilled workers with at least two years of training or experience . While the educational threshold for EB-3 may appear less rigorous, the process itself is equally structured. One key distinction between EB-2 and EB-3 lies in the requirements of the job being offered, not just the applicant’s own credentials. For example, if a position requires only a bachelor’s degree, even a highly qualified candidate with a master’s degree may still fall under EB-3. Regardless of which category applies, most employment-based green card cases begin with the PERM labor certification process . This is a formal procedure overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor, in which the employer must test the labor market and demonstrate that there are no able, willing, qualified, and available U.S. workers for the position. The employer must also agree to pay the prevailing wage as determined by the Department of Labor. This step is both mandatory and highly detail-sensitive; inaccuracies in the job description, recruitment steps, or wage determination can lead to significant delays or even denials. Once PERM certification is approved, the employer files Form I-140 , the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. This petition confirms that the employee meets the requirements for the offered position under either EB-2 or EB-3, and that the employer is financially capable of providing the job as described. If the employee’s priority date—which is based on the date the PERM was filed—is current according to the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin, the individual may then file Form I-485 to adjust their status to lawful permanent resident. One of the more nuanced aspects of this process involves understanding how priority dates and visa backlogs affect the timeline. For applicants from countries with high demand, such as India or China, significant delays are common—particularly under EB-2. Paradoxically, there are times when the EB-3 category moves faster, prompting some applicants to file a second I-140 under EB-3 while retaining the original priority date. This strategy can be effective but requires careful legal planning to ensure it’s done correctly. Another strategic factor is portability. If your I-485 application has been pending for at least 180 days and your I-140 has been approved, you may be eligible to change employers under the AC21 portability provisions, so long as the new job is in the same or a similar occupational classification. This flexibility can be critical for employees who experience job changes or promotions during the often lengthy green card process. Ultimately, the choice between EB-2 and EB-3 isn’t about prestige —it’s about aligning your qualifications, the job requirements, and your immigration history with current legal standards and market conditions. The right strategy depends not only on your education and experience, but also on your long-term career goals and country of origin. At our firm, we work closely with both employers and employees to develop individualized immigration strategies that streamline the process and avoid unnecessary setbacks. Whether you're a corporate professional evaluating your green card options or an employer preparing to sponsor a key team member, we offer the insight and experience to move your case forward with confidence.
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