Yes, you can check your immigration status online using the USCIS Case Status tool, and your case number is printed on every official notice you receive from USCIS.

Why Online Status Checks Matter

Waiting for a green card, work permit, or naturalization certificate can feel endless. **Checking your case online every few days** gives you real-time updates without calling the 1-800 number. It also helps you spot mistakes—such as a missed biometrics appointment—before they turn into denials.

Where to Find Your Case Number

1. On the I-797 Receipt Notice

After USCIS accepts your petition, they mail Form I-797. The **13-character case number** starts with three letters (EAC, WAC, LIN, SRC, MSC, or NBC) followed by ten digits. Example: SRC2310456789.

2. On Biometrics, RFE, or Interview Notices

Every subsequent notice repeats the same number in the top right corner. **Keep these letters together** in a folder so you never misplace the identifier.

3. If You Lost the Paper Notice

• Log in to your USCIS online account—if you filed electronically, the number is under “Case History.”
• Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 and request a duplicate I-797; have your passport or A-number ready.

Step-by-Step: How to Check Immigration Status Online

Option A: USCIS Case Status Tool

1. Open https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do
2. Type the 13-character case number without spaces.
3. Click “Check Status” and read the latest update.

Option B: USCIS Online Account

If you filed Form G-1145 or created an account during the application, sign in at https://myaccount.uscis.gov. The dashboard lists **all pending cases** with color-coded status bars.

Option C: Lawfully or Case Tracker Apps

Third-party apps sync with USCIS data and send push notifications. **They do not store your personal data** if you revoke access after approval.

Common Error Messages and Fixes

“Case Not Found” usually means:

• The number was typed incorrectly—check for O vs 0 or I vs 1.
• USCIS has not yet entered the case into the system; wait 72 hours after receipt.

“Invalid Case Format” appears when the prefix is wrong. **Verify the three-letter code** matches your notice.

What Each Status Update Really Means

How Often Should You Check?

USCIS updates the public site once daily at 12:00 a.m. ET. **Checking more than once a day is pointless**. Set a weekly reminder on your phone instead.

Can Someone Else Check for You?

Yes. Give them the case number and your full name as listed on the petition. **Do not share your A-number or SSN** unless they are your attorney or accredited representative.

Checking Status for Family Members

Each beneficiary receives a separate case number. Create a simple spreadsheet:

Name | Case Number | Last Checked | Latest Status
Maria | MSC2311123456 | 2024-05-18 | Interview Scheduled
Juan  | MSC2311123457 | 2024-05-18 | RFE Sent

This prevents confusion when multiple petitions are pending.

What If the Status Hasn’t Changed for Months?

Outside normal processing times? File an **e-Request** at https://egov.uscis.gov/e-request. Select “Case Outside Normal Processing Time” and attach your notice. Typical response is 30 days.

Pro Tips to Speed Up the Process

• Sign up for **text and email alerts** via G-1145 to catch updates instantly.
• Upload RFE responses through your USCIS account—**faster than mailing**.
• Keep a scanned copy of every notice in cloud storage for quick reference.

Checking Status After Approval

Even after “Card Was Produced,” track the **USPS tracking number** on the approval notice. If the green card is lost in the mail, file Form I-90 online within 60 days to receive a free replacement.

Special Cases: Asylum, Refugee, and Consular Processing

Asylum cases use a **different tracking portal** at https://myuscis.gov/asylum. Refugees receive an I-94 number, not a USCIS case number. Consular processing cases are tracked through the **CEAC site** with the case ID starting with “AAO” or “GUZ.”

Staying Informed Without Obsessing

Set calendar alerts for key milestones—biometrics, interview, and 120 days after filing for naturalization. **Checking once a week** keeps you informed without creating anxiety.