USCIS has created an important new tool that should make it easier to schedule in-person appointments for certain immigration benefits.
Over the years, USCIS has tried different methods of scheduling in-person appointments. Prior to 2019, USCIS used a system called InfoPass, which allowed attorneys and individuals to schedule in-person appointments for urgent or emergent matters. Beginning in September 2019, USCIS did away with InfoPass and instead required a person to call USCIS customer service and speak to several levels of representatives before a decision was made as to whether an appointment would be scheduled. This process has proven to be time-consuming, and it has made it difficult for individuals to have urgent needs addressed.
This all changed in August 2023, when USCIS introduced its new My Appointment online scheduling tool. Using this tool, individuals and attorneys are able to schedule appointments at USCIS Field Offices for ADIT Stamps serving as temporary evidence of lawful permanent residence status, emergency Advance Parole travel authorization, Immigration Judge Grants, and more.
USCIS will review online forms and schedule appointments with USCIS Field Offices as schedules permit. USCIS anticipates that this will streamline the process of scheduling important in-person appointment. While applicants may request specific appointment dates, USCIS does not guarantee that the requested appointment date will be scheduled.
You can find the new USCIS My Appointment tool at https://my.uscis.gov/en/appointment/v2
Without discussing the specifics of a person’s case, it is not possible to give legal advice. If you are seeking help, I recommend scheduling a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney. This post is intended as only general information and is not a substitute for legal advice.
Vance Berry, Principal Attorney
Photo credit: Agus Dietrich