Track Your USCIS Case Online — Even If You Filed by Paper

Waiting for a decision from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can be stressful. Whether you filed for a work permit, green card, naturalization, or another immigration benefit, it's natural to want updates on your case.

The good news is that you can track your USCIS case online—even if you submitted your application by mail instead of electronically.

Here's how it works.

Can I Track a Paper-Filed USCIS Case?

Yes. Once USCIS accepts your paper application, it will issue a Receipt Notice (Form I-797C, Notice of Action). This notice includes a unique 13-character receipt number that allows you to check your case status online.

The receipt number typically begins with one of the following prefixes:

• IOE

• LIN

• SRC

• WAC

• MSC

• EAC

• YSC

Each number is unique to your case and can be used to monitor updates throughout the process.

How to Check Your USCIS Case Status

Tracking your case online only takes a few minutes.

Step 1: Locate Your Receipt Number

Find your Form I-797C (Notice of Action) received from USCIS after your application was accepted.

Step 2: Visit the USCIS Case Status Tool

Go to the official USCIS Case Status Online page.

Step 3: Enter Your Receipt Number

Type the complete 13-character receipt number exactly as it appears on your notice. Do not include spaces or hyphens.

Step 4: Review Your Case Status

USCIS will display the most recent update available for your case, such as:

• Case Was Received

• Biometrics Appointment Was Scheduled

• Request for Evidence (RFE) Was Sent

• Interview Was Scheduled

• Case Was Approved

• Card Was Produced

• Case Was Denied

Remember that online updates may not always appear immediately, so continue checking periodically.

Create a USCIS Online Account for Additional Features

Even if you filed your application by paper, you may still be able to create a USCIS online account.

An online account allows you to:

• Receive electronic case updates

• View notices for eligible applications

• Respond electronically to certain Requests for Evidence (RFEs)

• Update your mailing address (when applicable)

• Manage multiple USCIS cases from one account

If USCIS created an online account for your application, you may receive an Online Access Code by mail. Follow the instructions provided to link your paper-filed case to your account.

Why Isn't My Case Updating?

It's common for USCIS case statuses to remain unchanged for weeks—or even months—depending on the type of application and current processing times.

A lack of updates does not necessarily mean there is a problem with your case.

However, if your case has been pending significantly longer than normal processing times or you receive a Request for Evidence, it's important to review youroptions promptly.

What If I Lose My Receipt Notice?

If you lose your receipt notice, recovering your receipt number may be more difficult.

If you filed through an attorney, your legal representative likely has a copy of your receipt notice.

If you filed on your own, USCIS may be able to help you locate your receipt number through your online account or other customer service options, depending on your situation.

Need Help With Your USCIS Case?

Tracking your case is only one part of the immigration process. If you've received a Request for Evidence, your case has been delayed, or you're unsure about the next steps, speaking with an experienced immigration attorney can help you understand your options.

At Canero Fadul Reis PLLC, our team assists individuals, families, and employers with employment-based immigration, family petitions, humanitarian cases, naturalization, and other immigration matters.

If you have questions about your pending USCIS case, contact our office to schedule a consultation.