The Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program is designed to provide immigration opportunities for individuals who have worked with the U.S. government in Iraq or Afghanistan and are facing threats due to their service. The SIV process can be lengthy and complex, involving multiple steps and various government agencies. Keeping track of your SIV case status is crucial to ensure you stay informed about your application’s progress and to address any issues promptly. This article outlines the steps to check your SIV case status and offers tips for navigating the process efficiently.
Understanding the SIV Process
- Eligibility:
- The SIV program is available to certain Iraqi and Afghan nationals who have provided faithful and valuable service to the U.S. government or its contractors. Eligible applicants include interpreters, translators, and other personnel who have faced serious threats due to their employment.
- Application Steps:
- The SIV application process involves several stages, including the submission of the application, approval of the Chief of Mission (COM) request, filing the Form I-360 petition, and undergoing security and medical checks before final visa issuance.
- Key Agencies:
- Multiple U.S. government agencies are involved in the SIV process, including the Department of State (DOS), the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the National Visa Center (NVC).
Checking Your SIV Case Status
- Department of State (DOS):
- The DOS handles the initial stages of the SIV process, including the COM approval. To check the status of your COM approval request, you can contact the National Visa Center (NVC) at [email protected]. Be sure to include your full name, date of birth, and NVC case number (if you have one) in your inquiry.
- USCIS Case Status:
- After your COM approval, your Form I-360 petition is processed by USCIS. To check the status of your I-360 petition, follow these steps:
- Visit the USCIS Case Status Online Page: Go to the USCIS website and navigate to the “Check Case Status” page.
- Enter Your Receipt Number: Input the 13-character receipt number found on the receipt notice you received from USCIS. This number typically begins with three letters (such as EAC, WAC, LIN, or SRC) followed by 10 numbers.
- Review Your Case Status: The system will display the current status of your petition, including any recent updates or actions taken.
- After your COM approval, your Form I-360 petition is processed by USCIS. To check the status of your I-360 petition, follow these steps:
- National Visa Center (NVC):
- After USCIS approves your I-360 petition, your case is transferred to the NVC. The NVC will assign you a case number and begin processing your visa application. To check the status of your case with the NVC:
- Email NVC: Send an inquiry to NVC at [email protected], providing your full name, date of birth, and NVC case number.
- Call NVC: You can also contact the NVC by phone at +1-603-334-0700. Be prepared to provide your case number and other identifying information.
- After USCIS approves your I-360 petition, your case is transferred to the NVC. The NVC will assign you a case number and begin processing your visa application. To check the status of your case with the NVC:
- Consular Processing:
- Once the NVC completes processing your case, it will be forwarded to the U.S. embassy or consulate responsible for issuing your visa. The embassy or consulate will schedule your visa interview and inform you of the required documentation and medical examination.
- Check Embassy Website: Visit the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate handling your case for specific instructions and updates on your interview appointment.
- Email or Call the Consulate: Contact the consulate directly if you have questions about your interview or need to check the status of your visa issuance.
- Once the NVC completes processing your case, it will be forwarded to the U.S. embassy or consulate responsible for issuing your visa. The embassy or consulate will schedule your visa interview and inform you of the required documentation and medical examination.
Tips for Monitoring Your SIV Case
- Keep Records:
- Maintain a detailed record of all correspondence, forms, and documents related to your SIV application. This includes copies of your application, receipt notices, emails, and any letters from U.S. government agencies.
- Regularly Check Status:
- Make it a habit to check your case status regularly, especially if you haven’t received updates in a while. This helps ensure you are aware of any issues or additional information requests that may arise.
- Respond Promptly:
- If you receive a request for additional information or documentation from USCIS, NVC, or the consulate, respond as quickly as possible to avoid delays in processing your case.
- Seek Assistance:
- If you encounter difficulties or have questions about your case status, consider seeking assistance from an immigration attorney or a reputable organization that supports SIV applicants. These professionals can provide guidance and help you navigate the process.
- Stay Informed:
- Keep yourself informed about any changes to the SIV program or relevant policies. Government websites and reputable news sources are good places to find accurate information.
Checking the status of your SIV case is an essential part of the application process. By staying proactive and informed, you can ensure that your application progresses smoothly and that you address any issues promptly. Utilize the resources provided by the Department of State, USCIS, and the National Visa Center, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed. With diligence and attention to detail, you can successfully navigate the SIV process and move closer to obtaining your Special Immigrant Visa.