What is a normal wait in 2026?
I-485 (spouse inside US): 10–18 months total from filing to green card.
Consular processing (spouse outside US): 12–24 months depending on country and embassy.
No news is not bad news. Long silences between updates are completely normal, especially in months 2–6.
Consular processing (spouse outside US): 12–24 months depending on country and embassy.
No news is not bad news. Long silences between updates are completely normal, especially in months 2–6.
⚠️ What if you receive an RFE (Request for Evidence)?
An RFE means USCIS needs additional information before they can make a decision. About 30% of applications receive one. It does NOT mean you are being denied, but you MUST respond by the deadline.
1
Read the RFE letter carefully and note the exact response deadline2
Gather every document they requested, do not skip anything3
Write a cover letter listing every document you are including4
Mail via certified mail with tracking, keep the receipt5
If the RFE is complex, consult an immigration attorney immediately
Processing times change frequently. The timelines shown are averages based on current USCIS data as of May 2026, your case may take more or less time depending on your field office, country of origin, case complexity, and whether additional documentation is requested. Always check current processing times at uscis.gov/tools/processing-times for the most up-to-date information.