The INS has launched a system for checking the status of a case pending at a Service Center via the internet. It can be found at https://egov.ins.usdoj.gov/graphics/cris/jsps/caseStat.jsp . The information provided is the same as you can get by calling the "INS Direct" inquiry lines at the Service Centers, but this system provides an alternative means to make an inquiry without worrying about busy signals. Keep in mind this system is only applies to your case if your application has been filed at one of the five Service Centers, California Service Center, Missouri Service Center, Nebraska Service Center, Texas Service Center, or Vermont Service Center. If you have applied to a local District Office, this system will not give you any information about the case. You must contact the District Office directly.
To use the system, you must have the 13 digit case or file number indicated on your receipt notice. Please remember that this sytem is only for applications filed with the INS. Some applications may be filed with the Department of Labor or other government agencies. In such a case, you would not have an INS receipt notice. We encourage clients to use this online system once they receive the receipt notice from our office.