Immigration processes in the United States can be very complicated and lengthy. If you have been through the immigration process or have a case pending,you may have had many questions or doubts throughout the process. Did you know that you can contact the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to help answer your questions and guide you through the process? The USCIS customer service center can help you review your immigration application status via your receipt number and answer (most) questions about your case. However, because USCIS processes tens of millions of applications and forms every year, they cannot personally take calls from every single person. Therefore, they have an automated voice assistance system in place. This article will help you understand how to navigate this system and when you should call USCIS to speak to a live representative.
Next, we will answer the following questions:
- How can I speak to a live person at USCIS?
- Can I talk to a USCIS representative in Spanish?
- When is the best time to call to reach a live representative?
- How should I prepare for a call with USCIS?
- What are some common reasons people call USCIS?
- Are there other ways to get in contact with USCIS?
How can I speak to a live person at USCIS?
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) administers the adjudication of immigration applications and inquiries. Because this federal agency covers the whole country, it receives a lot of customer assistance inquiries. Because of the high volume of calls they were receiving, USCIS set up the ‘National Customer Service Center to help manage this customer service volume. USCIS offers multiple ways to contact them for help with your immigration case. The most commonly used is the toll-free phone number you can call to seek assistance. The most recent USCIS contact number is 1-800-375-5283.
Can I talk to a USCIS representative in Spanish?
Yes, to speak to a USCIS representative in Spanish, follow these steps:
- Dial the number 1-800-375-5283
- Press 2 for Spanish
- When it is your turn to talk, say the word “INFOPASS.”
- Now you must wait to be connected with a USCIS representative.
When is the best time to call USCIS to reach a live representative?
The live person assistance service is only available Monday through Friday, between 8 am to 9 pm. However, for a prompt response, it is recommended to call early.
How should I prepare for a call with USCIS?
It’s not always easy to get a hold of someone at USCIS, so when you call, make sure you are prepared to make the most of the opportunity. Here are a few things you can do to prep for your call:
- Gather important information about your case, such as your receipt number or alien registration number (A# on most forms)
- Have a pen and paper on-hand to take down important notes.
While you are on the call, we recommend that you do the following:
- Write down the name of the USCIS Representative who assist you
- Write down the time and date of your call
- Record any reference numbers provided throughout your conversation with the representative.
What are some common reasons people call USCIS?
There are many reasons a person might be trying to speak to someone at USCIS, but some of the most common reasons include the following:
- Questions about the visa application or citizenship application process
- Updates on the status of pending immigration cases
- Scheduling or managing in-person interview appointments
- Technical support with the USCIS website.
Be aware that no matter who you speak with at USCIS, they are not allowed to provide legal advice.
Are there other ways to get in contact with USCIS?
- USCIS online account
USCIS online accounts allow applicants, petitioners, and representatives to access information about their case 24 hours a day through any internet-connected device.
- Online messages
You can send messages and inquiries directly to the USCIS Contact Center without an online account and receive an email or phone response within 24 to 48 hours.
- Emma and live web chat
Emma is the USCIS Virtual Assistant. Emma can immediately respond to non-case-specific questions about immigration services and benefits, guide users through the USCIS website, and connect you to a live agent through web chat for more in-depth topics and questions.