Make a USCIS online account
Open my.uscis.gov and choose Create an account.
Use an email you will keep for years.
Turn on two-step verification with an authenticator app or text messages.
If you filed a case on paper, add it with the online access code printed on your receipt notice.
The account lets you file many forms online (usually $50 cheaper than paper), see notices, upload evidence, change your address and message USCIS.
Every case has a receipt number: 3 letters and 10 numbers, for example IOE0123456789. The letters show the office. You use it to:
Check status at egov.uscis.gov (Case Status Online).
Check processing times for your form and office.
USCIS sends most decisions on Form I-797. The title at the top tells you what it is:
I-797C, Notice of Action: a receipt (USCIS got your case), an appointment, or a transfer. A receipt does not mean approval.
I-797 or I-797A, Approval Notice: your case was approved. An I-797A has a new I-94 at the bottom. Cut it out and keep it with your passport.
I-797B: approval for a worker who is outside the US.
I-797E: a Request for Evidence or other request. Respond by the date. See Biometrics appointments and RFEs.
On every notice check: your name, date of birth, A-number, the form type, the dates of validity, and the address.
Check processing times for your form at egov.uscis.gov.
If your case is past the normal time, submit an online "outside normal processing times" request.
In 2025 and 2026 USCIS paused or slowed some cases, for example for people from certain countries. If your case seems stuck, talk to an attorney or accredited representative.
Thinking a receipt is an approval.
Throwing away the envelope and the receipt. Keep every notice forever.
Using websites that copy USCIS and charge fees. USCIS addresses end in uscis.gov.