Methodology & sources

Where the data comes from

Every number on this site comes from USCIS's public Case Processing Times tool (egov.uscis.gov/processing-times). We do not estimate, model, or adjust the times — we publish what USCIS publishes, stamped with the exact capture date.

We capture the data for every form and office once a week and archive every capture permanently. The latest capture is from July 22, 2026; the archive holds 1 snapshot(s) so far.

What the number means

USCIS calculates the processing time as the time in which it completed 80% of adjudicated cases over the past six months. It is a reference point, not an absolute measure of how long a specific case will take.

Where USCIS shows a range (for example, 10.5 – 12 months), we show that same range. The 'inquiry date' is the receipt-date cutoff USCIS publishes: if your receipt date is on or before it, USCIS accepts a formal case inquiry.

Why we archive weekly

USCIS shows only the current time — it publishes no detailed per-office history. By archiving every weekly capture, Arrive Legal builds the historical series that exists nowhere else: how every form moves at every office, week over week. The trend charts on this site are drawn exclusively from that archive.

What Arrive Legal is (and isn't)

Arrive Legal is an independent information service. We are not a law firm, we do not provide legal advice, and we are not affiliated with USCIS or any government agency. If you need advice about your case, consult a licensed immigration attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative.