USCIS handed your card to USPS for delivery. The card is in the mail system and on its way to your address on file.
What comes next
Expect delivery within 2-5 business days. Watch your mailbox. USPS does not require a signature for most USCIS card deliveries.
Typical timeline
After USPS picks up the card, delivery typically takes 2-5 business days for standard USPS first-class mail. Rural addresses or busy postal periods (holidays) can add 1-3 days.
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If you're stuck on this status
If it has been more than 10 business days since 'Card Was Picked Up by USPS' and you have not received the card, file a card delivery inquiry through your USCIS online account. You can also check USPS Informed Delivery (informeddelivery.usps.com) for package tracking.
What to do now
1Watch your mailbox over the next 2-5 business days
2Check USPS Informed Delivery (informeddelivery.usps.com) for tracking notifications
3Do not travel internationally until the physical card is in hand (for green cards/AP)
4If card does not arrive within 10 business days, file a card delivery inquiry at my.uscis.gov
When to contact an attorney
You usually do not need an attorney for this status by itself. Consider legal help if your case is outside published processing times, you receive a confusing notice, or your facts are complicated.
Community average
Applicants typically wait 5 days before the next update after this status.
Frequently asked questions
How do I track my USCIS card delivery?+
Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery at informeddelivery.usps.com — it sends daily email previews of incoming mail to your address. USCIS cards typically show as a flat piece of mail. There is no standard USPS tracking number for most USCIS cards.
What if I miss the delivery?+
USCIS cards are generally delivered without requiring a signature, so USPS will usually leave them in your mailbox or slot. If your mailbox is too small, USPS may leave a notice for pickup at the local post office. Unclaimed cards can be returned to USCIS.
My card was returned to USCIS — what do I do?+
Update your address at my.uscis.gov immediately, then file a card delivery inquiry through your online account requesting re-mailing. USCIS typically re-mails returned cards within 4-8 weeks of the address correction.
Can I have my card delivered to a different address?+
USCIS mails cards to the address on file at the time of approval. Updating your address in your USCIS online account before production is the best approach. Once a card is produced and mailed, there is no way to redirect it.
Is 'Card Picked Up by USPS' the same as 'Card Was Mailed'?+
Yes — these status messages mean the same thing. USCIS uses different wording at different times, but both indicate the card has entered the USPS system for delivery to your address.
GreenLight is an independent tool and is NOT affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or any U.S. government agency. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Always verify at my.uscis.gov.