USCIS Status: “Case Received for Initial Review”
Your application has been accepted and assigned a receipt number, marking the start of the USCIS review process
What does this status mean?
USCIS received your application and assigned a receipt number, which starts with I-, E-, or WAC/EAC/LIN/SRC/NBC, indicating the initial step in the review process, and you can expect to receive a Form I-797 receipt notice by mail within 2-3 weeks, after which your case will be placed in a queue for further review
What should you do next?
- 1Log into my.uscis.gov and check your case status using your receipt number
- 2Wait for a Form I-797 receipt notice to arrive by mail, which may take 2-3 weeks
- 3If your case is outside normal processing times, submit a service request through your my.uscis.gov account
Typical timeline
Varies by form type and service center, but you can check the USCIS website for the typical processing times for your specific form and field office
Frequently asked questions
When does USCIS start reviewing my case
USCIS starts reviewing your case after your application is received and a receipt number is assigned, but the active review may not begin immediately, as your case is placed in a queue
How long does it take to receive a receipt notice
You should receive a Form I-797 receipt notice by mail within 2-3 weeks after your application is received
What happens after my case is received for initial review
After your case is received, it will be reviewed to determine if it is eligible for further processing, and you may receive a Request for Evidence or an approval notice, depending on the outcome of the review, and you can check your case status online or call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 for updates
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Set up free alert →Last updated: 2026-07-14