This mainly applies to applicants who filed their form online with USCIS.
The most common mistake is waiting for a paper notice by mail or a case status update.
This is a mistake. The case status does not always change when biometrics are scheduled.
Rule #1: regularly (about once a week) check your USCIS online account yourself and do not rely on notifications.
If you receive a message saying “We have taken an action on your case”, you must always check both the Case Status and Documents sections.
The second common mistake is checking only the main page and the case status.
Rule #2: always check the Documents section.
To find this section on a computer or smartphone —
see the attached screenshots
The Documents section lists all documents you uploaded when submitting your form.
You can also upload additional evidence and supplements to your case in this section.
Most importantly, new USCIS notices appear at the top of this section, including:
-
I-797C Notice of Action (Receipt Notice) — confirmation of acceptance
with the date from which the 150-day count begins (Received Date);
-
I-797C ASC Appointment — biometrics appointment notice;
-
interview appointment notices.
The Receipt Notice usually appears within 72 hours after filing online.
In some cases, it may appear within minutes.
The biometrics appointment notice may appear the next day or may take much longer.
Timing varies by state and city. There are no fixed deadlines, so regular checks are essential.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Translations are provided for convenience and may contain errors or omissions. For guidance on your specific situation, always consult official sources or a qualified attorney.
