If you have ever watched an immigration case crawl forward at a painfully slow pace, you already know the hard part: delays rarely come with a clear explanation. You just get silence… and more waiting.
The good news is that a lot of USCIS slowdowns are predictable. Some are out of your control (like staffing, backlogs, and required background checks). But many delays come from things applicants can prevent, like missing items, messy evidence, inconsistent details, and missed notices.
Here is a clear breakdown of what slows cases down in 2026 and how to keep your filing moving as smoothly as possible.
Before you assume something is wrong, get grounded in the tools USCIS uses to show case progress:
USA.gov explains how to check both, including what information you need (like your 13-character receipt number).
If you are filing from Orange County or anywhere in California and you want help choosing the right strategy before you submit anything, Brudner Law’s immigration services page gives a solid overview of the kinds of cases we handle.
This is one of the most common reasons a case stalls right at the beginning.
Typical issues include:
Even when these do not lead to a rejection, they can trigger follow-up requests that add months.
A simple habit that helps: before you file, print (or save) a clean copy of every form and do a slow review for blanks, signatures, and mismatched answers.
If you want a related checklist approach, our 2026 Immigration Checklist is a helpful “keep it organized” reference.
An RFE (Request for Evidence) is not a denial, but it often adds significant time to a case because USCIS stops review, waits for your response, then re-enters your case into the queue.
RFEs often happen when:
USCIS policy guidance also makes it clear that missing requested evidence by the deadline can lead to a denial or an “abandoned” case decision.
If you receive an RFE, do not guess at what they want. Respond fully, cleanly, and in the exact order the notice asks for. Brudner Law has a full walkthrough here: How to Handle a USCIS Request for Evidence (RFE) Without Hurting Your Case.
USCIS compares information across your entire record. Even small inconsistencies can lead to delays, RFEs, or extra review.
Common “tripwire” inconsistencies:
A simple fix: make one master timeline (addresses, work history, travel, prior filings) and use it for every form.
If you are filing a family-based case, our Family Immigration page is a good starting point for understanding common categories and documentation needs.
This one causes more problems than most people realize because it creates “invisible delays.” USCIS sends a notice. You never get it. Then you miss a biometrics appointment, an interview, or an RFE deadline.
If you have filed an immigration benefit request with USCIS, you must notify USCIS of any changes of address as soon as possible to ensure you receive all correspondence and benefits without delay. Additionally, all aliens in the United States must report a change of address to USCIS within 10 days of moving.
It is required by law to update your address, and missed mail is a major reason cases are delayed.
USCIS also encourages using an online account change-of-address tool because paper updates may not automatically update all systems.
Biometric appointments are one of those steps that feel routine until they are missed. If you do not attend, rescheduling can add time and sometimes create downstream delays for interviews and approvals.
Ways to avoid this slowdown:
If you have already dealt with missed appointments or are trying to prevent them, staying on top of case status updates matters. USA.gov outlines how to track case status online or by phone.
Not every case requires an interview, but when you do get one, poor preparation can lead to:
Preparation issues that slow cases down:
If you have an interview coming up, Brudner Law explains why prep matters here: Why Legal Prep Makes the Difference in Immigration Interviews.
A lot of people notice a mistake after filing, then hope it “will be fine.” But sometimes that mistake becomes the exact reason the case gets stuck.
If you suspect an issue (wrong dates, missing document, wrong category), address it early. We break down options in our guide: How to Fix a Mistake on Your Immigration Form Before It’s Too Late.
If you want to lower the odds of delays, focus on what USCIS tends to slow down for:
Some situations are more likely to trigger delays, even with a careful DIY filing:
If you want local support from an Orange County team, you can start with Brudner Law’s Orange County immigration page.
In 2026, the “fastest” USCIS cases are rarely about luck. They are usually the ones that arrive complete, consistent, and easy to review, so USCIS does not have to pause the process and ask for more.
If you are preparing a filing this year and want a plan that lowers the chances of avoidable delays, Brudner Law can help you move forward with clarity. Browse the Resources library, and when you are ready, contact Brudner Law to talk through next steps.
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