Updated May 2026

Form I-131 Processing Time at California Service Center

Handles applications from states in the western US. Receipt numbers begin with WAC.

Current processing range
4–10months

Critical: Do NOT travel outside the US until your I-131 is approved if you have a pending I-485.

About the CSC
Full name
California Service Center
Location
Laguna Niguel, CA
Receipt prefix
WAC
Common abbreviation
CSC
Center notes

Generally one of the faster service centers for I-765 EAD processing. I-485 cases may be transferred to local field offices for interviews.

How to confirm your case is at the CSC

Your receipt number on Form I-797C (Notice of Action) begins with a 3-letter code that identifies which USCIS service center received your application.

Your receipt number starts with:
WACXXXXXXXXXX
= Your case is at the California Service Center

If your receipt number starts with a different prefix, your case is at a different service center. See all service centers for Form I-131 →

Check official processing times
See USCIS's current estimates for your exact form type and category
USCIS processing times →

Frequently asked questions

How long does Form I-131 take at the CSC in 2026?+
Form I-131 at the USCIS California Service Center currently takes approximately 4–10 months. Critical: Do NOT travel outside the US until your I-131 is approved if you have a pending I-485.
How do I know if my Form I-131 is at the CSC?+
Check your Form I-797C (Notice of Action) receipt number. If it starts with "WAC", your case is at the California Service Center. Handles applications from states in the western US. Receipt numbers begin with WAC.
What does a WAC receipt number mean?+
WAC receipt numbers are issued by the USCIS California Service Center in Laguna Niguel, CA. The prefix identifies which service center processed your filing.
Is the CSC faster or slower than other USCIS service centers?+
Processing times vary by form type and current workload. Generally one of the faster service centers for I-765 EAD processing. I-485 cases may be transferred to local field offices for interviews. Always check the official USCIS processing times page for the most current estimates.
Can I request expedited processing of my Form I-131 at the CSC?+
Yes. USCIS allows expedite requests for qualifying situations: severe financial loss, urgent humanitarian reasons, US government interests, or USCIS error. Submit your request through your online USCIS account or by calling 1-800-375-5283.

Form I-131 at other service centers

Form I-131 at VSC (EAC) →Form I-131 at NSC (LIN) →Form I-131 at TSC (SRC) →Form I-131 at NBC (MSC) →Form I-131 at PSC (IOE) →

Got a status update on your Form I-131 from the CSC? Paste it in for a plain-English explanation.

Decode your status message →

GreenLight is an independent tool and is NOT affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or any US government agency. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Always verify at my.uscis.gov.