Your Journey Through the U.S. Immigration Process: A Comprehensive Timeline

Embarking on the journey of obtaining a U.S. green card can be daunting, but documenting your progress can make it more manageable and encouraging. This blog shares a personal timeline of a successful green card application, highlighting the critical steps and experiences along the way. From marriage to approval, here’s a detailed rundown of the process!

The Timeline of My Green Card Journey

October 2024: Marriage License Obtained

On this significant date, I officially tied the knot, marking the start of my journey towards gaining permanent residency in the U.S. 🎉

April 13, 2025: Application Package Sent

I sent out my entire immigration package via UPS overnight to the Elgin, IL lockbox. The package included:

• I-693
• I-130
• I-485
• I-765
• I-131
• I-864

April 15, 2025: Confirmation of Delivery

The UPS tracking showed that my package had been delivered. Relief washed over me knowing that my application was in the right hands!

April 18, 2025: Receipt Numbers Received

I was thrilled when my family member received four text messages from USCIS, providing us with four receipt numbers. Each message confirmed that their respective payment had been processed.

April 21, 2025: Online Account Setup

I reached out to Emma for help and got the Online Access Code, allowing me to create a USCIS account. I linked the four cases using the receipt numbers and access code, and it showed that they had been received on April 15.

April 24, 2025: USCIS Receipt Notices Arrive

In my mailbox, I received two USCIS receipt notices dated April 21—one for myself and another for my family member. Exciting times!

April 25, 2025: Fee Receipts Received

I received four fee receipts in the following days. Later that evening, I found an email saying, “We have taken action on your case.” I logged into my USCIS account and saw that my fingerprint appointment had been scheduled. I quickly rescheduled for April 28.

April 28, 2025: Fingerprint Appointment Completed

After completing my fingerprinting, my USCIS account showed that my I-485 and I-765 cases were being actively reviewed.

April 30, 2025: Applying for Expedite on Work Card

I eagerly applied for an expedited work card, hoping for a quick response.

May 1, 2025: Expedite Request Denied

Unfortunately, my request for expedited processing was denied, but I stayed optimistic.

May 21, 2025: Work Card Approved

Great news! My work card was finally approved.

May 30, 2025: Work Card Received

The work card arrived in the mail, and I couldn’t be happier. 🎊

July 15, 2025: Interview Appointment Letter Arrives

I received the long-awaited interview appointment letter, scheduled for the end of August.

August 29, 2025: Interview Completed

After a successful interview, I was overjoyed when my I-485 application was approved the very next morning!

Conclusion: A Successful Journey

The journey to secure a green card was filled with anticipation and milestones worth celebrating! This experience taught me the value of patience and proper tracking of all documentation.

Tip: Consider signing up for USPS Informed Delivery to monitor your incoming mail daily. It’s an excellent way to keep track of important mail! Wishing you all good luck on your immigration journey! 🍀🍀🍀

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