The immigration process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to navigate through the lengthy wait times. However, there are certain situations where you may be able to expedite your immigration petition. If you’re facing specific circumstances or urgent needs, you might be eligible for faster processing.
Request premium processing for certain petitions
One of the most common ways to expedite your immigration petition is by requesting premium processing. This service, available for certain visa categories like H-1B and L-1, guarantees processing within 15 calendar days for an additional fee. If you want to fast-track your petition, this is a viable option, but it’s important to confirm that your visa type qualifies for this service.
Demonstrate emergency circumstances
In cases where there’s an emergency or urgent need, you might be able to request an expedited processing based on humanitarian reasons. These can include situations such as a medical emergency, financial hardship, or other significant reasons that would benefit from faster processing.
You can submit a request to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) detailing the emergency, along with any necessary supporting documents. USCIS will review the request and determine if your case qualifies for expedited treatment.
Contact your Congressional representative
If you’re facing significant delays or unusual processing times, you can reach out to your Congressional representative. In some cases, they may be able to intervene and help move your petition along. While not guaranteed, contacting your representative can sometimes help resolve issues with USCIS processing or expedite your case.
Consider the national interest waiver
If you’re applying for a green card through employment, you might be eligible for a national interest waiver (NIW). This waiver allows you to skip the labor certification process, speeding up the overall green card application process. NIWs are available for individuals who are working in a field that benefits the United States’ national interests, such as science, technology, or healthcare.
Expediting your immigration petition can make a huge difference when you’re in urgent need of status or approval. Be sure to review the available options to see if your case qualifies, and take the necessary steps to speed up the process.