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Are you looking to file an I-360 petition but are unsure of how long the processing time might take? If so, you’re not alone. Many individuals who are looking to file an I-360 petition are often concerned about the processing time and how it may impact their case. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the I-360 processing time, including what you can expect, how to prepare for it, and what you can do to help speed up the process.
What is an I-360 Petition?
Form I-360 is a petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant that can be filed by several groups of immigrants who have faced extraordinary circumstances and are seeking a green card in the United States. According to USCIS, some of the eligible categories for this form are:
– Amerasians: People who were born in Asia after Dec. 31, 1950, and before Oct. 23, 1982, and whose father was a U.S. citizen.
– Widow(er)s: Spouses of U.S. citizens who died within two years of their marriage and who did not remarry before their spouse’s death.
– VAWA self-petitioners: Spouses, children, or parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who have been abused by their family member and meet certain criteria.
– Special immigrants: A broad category that includes religious workers, employees of certain international organizations or NATO, physicians, juvenile court dependents, U.S. armed forces members, Afghan or Iraqi translators or workers for the U.S. government, broadcasters for USAGM or its grantees, and others.
Form I-360 requires applicants to provide personal information such as name, address, date of birth, marital status, immigration history, and biometric data. Applicants must also submit evidence to support their eligibility for their specific category such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, proof of abuse (for VAWA cases), employment letters (for special immigrants), etc.
Form I-360 can be filed online through USCIS website or by mail with the appropriate filing fee and supporting documents. The filing location may vary depending on the category of the applicant. Applicants should follow the instructions on Form I-360 carefully to avoid delays or errors in processing their petition.
How Long Does the I-360 Processing Time Typically Take?
| Category | Office | 80% of cases are completed within |
|---|---|---|
| All other special immigrants | California Service Center | 15 Months |
| All other special immigrants | Nebraska Service Center | 18 Months |
| All other special immigrants | Vermont Service Center | 26 Months |
| Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) | Vermont Service Center | 34 Months |
The I-360 processing time can vary greatly, depending on a number of factors, including the type of petition you are filing and the current workload of the USCIS office processing your cases. However, some cases may be processed more quickly, while others may take longer.
What Can You Expect During the I-360 Processing Time?
During the I-360 processing time, you can expect the USCIS to review your case and determine whether you are eligible for special immigrant status. This process may include a review of your documents, an interview with a USCIS officer, and additional background checks.
How to Prepare for the I-360 Processing Time
To prepare for the I-360 processing time, it is important to gather all of the necessary documentation and information ahead of time. This may include:
- Proof of your identity, such as a passport or government-issued ID
- Proof of your relationship to the U.S. government, such as a certificate of appreciation or award
- Evidence of your membership in a religious denomination, such as a letter from your religious leader
- Evidence of persecution in your home country, such as police reports or medical records
It is also important to be proactive in providing any additional information or documentation that the USCIS may request during the processing of your case.
What You Can Do to Help Speed Up the I-360 Processing Time
There are several steps you can take to help speed up the I-360 processing time, including:
- Filing your petition as soon as possible, to ensure that it is reviewed in a timely manner
- Providing all of the necessary documentation and information up front
- Responding promptly to any requests for additional information or documentation from the USCIS
- Staying in contact with the USCIS office processing your case, to ensure that your case is progressing as expected
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your I-360 petition is processed as quickly as possible, and that you are able to move forward with your plans for the future.
Conclusion
The I-360 processing time can be a source of concern for individuals who are seeking special immigrant status under the INA. However, by being proactive and taking steps to prepare for the process, you can help ensure that your case is processed as quickly as possible. If you have any questions or concerns about the I-360 processing time, we encourage you to contact a knowledgeable immigration attorney for assistance.
