When a person’s petition to remove conditional residency is pending for years due to fingerprint delays, it’s very frustrating. Indeed, this is a common situation. It happens when U.S. Citizenship and When a person’s petition to remove conditional residency is pending for years due to fingerprint delays, it’s very frustrating. Keeping track of your immigration case status during this time can help manage expectations. Indeed, this is a common situation. It happens when U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) cannot process biometrics. Biometrics include fingerprints, photos, and signatures. As a result, they are required for background checks. The delay stops the processing of the entire Form I-751, which affects your immigration case status significantly.

Why Conditional Residency Petitions Face Delays

First and foremost, Form I-751 is a key step for many immigrants. It helps them get permanent residency. Specifically, it is for people who got their green card through marriage. They must have been a permanent resident for two years. The process shows the marriage is real. However, without biometrics, USCIS cannot finish security checks. Consequently, the case cannot move forward. Therefore, people are left in a difficult spot. Their green card may be expired. For this reason, they must use extension notices for work and travel while keeping a close eye on their immigration case status.

Resolving Delays in the I-751 Process

If you are in this situation, you can take several steps regarding your immigration case status.

• Check Your Case Status Online: First, check your case on the USCIS website. Use your receipt number. This shows the latest update. For instance, a notice might have been missed or a biometrics appointment could be pending.
• Submit an e-Request: If there is no progress, you can submit an e-Request. Do this on the USCIS website. It is an official way to ask about a case. Therefore, provide your case information and describe the issue clearly, especially if there are discrepancies in your immigration case status.
• Contact USCIS Directly: Alternatively, call the USCIS Contact Center. You can speak with a representative. They might give you specific information. In addition, you can also ask for a new biometrics appointment.
• Schedule an InfoPass Appointment: Most services are online. However, for complex cases, you can schedule an in-person meeting. This is at a local USCIS office. It is sometimes called an InfoPass appointment. In this way, you can speak to an officer directly to get updates on your immigration case status.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Finally, an immigration attorney can help. They know how to deal with USCIS. For example, they can file inquiries for you. They can also file a Writ of Mandamus. This is a lawsuit in federal court. It forces a government agency to act. While it is a last resort, it can work.

Ultimately, keep all your case documents. This includes receipts, notices, and letters from USCIS. After all, they are vital for inquiries or legal action. It is a frustrating process, but fortunately, you have ways to address the delay. You can get your case moving forward and improve your immigration case status.