News & Insights

1. Steps to Link Your Paper-Based Case to Your USCIS Account

Ensure Accuracy of Information:

• Double-check the receipt number and A-Number for accuracy.
• Receipt Number: Found on your Form I-797C, Notice of Action (e.g., starts with three letters like LIN, SRC, WAC, or EAC, followed by 10 digits).
• A-Number: Found on the same notice, typically formatted as a nine-digit number.

Account Creation:

• Log in to your USCIS online account or create one at my.uscis.gov.

Add Your Case:

• Once logged in, navigate to the “My Cases” section and click “Add a Case.”
• Enter your receipt number when prompted.

Timing Matters:

• It may take several weeks after receipt notice issuance for your case to appear in the online system.
• If your case was recently filed, wait at least 30 days before attempting to link it again.

2. Troubleshooting Common Issues

“Invalid Receipt Number” Error:

• Ensure there are no extra spaces or typos when entering the receipt number.
• The system may reject receipt numbers if your case has not yet been fully updated in the USCIS database.

“Invalid A-Number” Error:

• Verify that the A-Number you are using matches the one listed on your Form I-797C.

Case Not Found:

• Not all cases can be immediately added to online accounts.
• Use the Case Status Online tool to track your case in the meantime.

3. Alternate Solutions

Submit a Case Inquiry:

• If you cannot link your case after 30 days, submit an inquiry via the USCIS e-Request tool.
• Select the “Case Outside Normal Processing Time” option for assistance.

Contact USCIS Customer Service:

• Call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 for help with linking your case.
• Be prepared to provide your receipt number, A-Number, and other identifying details.

4. Key Points for Asylum Applicants

Paper-Based Filing:

• It’s common for paper-based applications to take longer to sync with the online system.
• Patience and persistence are key.

Track Without Linking:

• You can still monitor your case progress using the Case Status Online tool while resolving the linking issue.