The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services acknowledged on Friday that delays in the immigration processes are the result of COVID-19 restrictions. But they suggest tips on how to reduce the delays.

(Photo : Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
People watch as Judge Ramon E. Reyes speaks via livestream during a naturalization ceremony on July 22, 2020 in New York City. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Brooklyn field office.

Immigrants in the country are facing significant delays in processing their immigration papers or documents since the pandemic began. The USCIS also acknowledged that these delays are due to COVID-19 restrictions an increase in filings, current postal service volume, and other factors, according to a published article in Miami Herald.

Last week, the immigration agency also said that they were experiencing problems that caused delays in scheduling or rescheduling appointments to collect biometric data from applicants who have applied for U.S. citizenship, adjustment of status, and other benefits at local Application Support Centers.

This time, the agency said that the delays are also affecting receipt notices for some applications and petitions filed at a USCIS lockbox facility. This is the agency's Office of Intake and Document Production.

Moreover, this office is responsible for producing and mailing identity documents like green cards or permanent resident cards and work permits or sometimes known as employment authorization documents.

Read also: 5 Facts Immigrants Should Know About the Latest US Immigration Restrictions

Here are a series of steps that USCIS outlined to reduce waiting times amid the pandemic:

1. File Online

The USCIS recommends that one of the fastest ways to receive confirmation of receipt and to receive several benefits is filing online. The immigration agency said that some immigration benefit request forms can be filed electronically n the agency's secure online filing system.

2. Create Your USCIS Online Account

Creating an online account through https://myaccount.uscis.dhs.gov offers the immigrants to submit their applications and will also give them updates on their status as the process moves along.

This online tool allows foreign nationals to file forms, submit the evidence or proof supporting the application, respond to requests for supporting evidence, verify the status of the applications, and pay the required fees.

3. Request a Text Message or E-mail

The USCIS strongly advised that applicants should complete Form G-1145 or E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance. This must be clipped to the front of the form when filing at a USCIS lockbox to request a text message or e-mail when the agency accepts the form.

The USCIS Public Engagement Division also sent Stakeholder Message on Friday regarding updates on USCIS Lockbox. They emphasized and suggested that requirements must be completed and forms must be properly filed to avoid rejections.

The following are the agency's suggestion:

  • Review the form instructions and checklist of required initial evidence on the form web page (if this option is available).
  • Submit single-sided photocopies of requested documents, unless the form instructions specifically state you must submit an original document.
  • With the exception of passport photos, please copy photographs to an 8.5"x11" sheet of paper instead of sending originals. Always send in original passport photos where requested.
  • Submit only the required evidence and supporting documentation listed in the form instructions. If USCIS needs additional information, the agency will request it.

These are important things that you should know how to reduce delays in your application to the immigration agency. Amid the global pandemic, some restrictions cause delay to the application but these tips will help you reduce this problem.

Read also: Federal Immigration Agency Sets Potential Furlough Date to August 3