Your case was denied. You should receive a written decision explaining why.
What comes next
Read the denial notice carefully. You may have options: file a motion to reopen, file an appeal, or refile. Consult an immigration attorney immediately.
Typical timeline
After a denial, you have 30-33 days to file a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider (Form I-290B), or appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). For some case types, you may also be able to refile with better evidence.
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If you're stuck on this status
After filing an appeal or motion, processing by the AAO typically takes 6-18 months. If your appeal has been pending for more than 18 months, consult an attorney about your options — including a Mandamus lawsuit.
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Response deadline: 33 days
You must respond within 33 days of the notice date. Missing this deadline can result in denial. Contact an immigration attorney if you need help.
What to do now
1Consult an immigration attorney immediately
2Read the denial notice carefully — it explains the reasons
3You typically have 30-33 days to file a motion to reopen or appeal
4Do NOT ignore this — missing the appeal deadline removes your options
5Keep all copies of the denial notice and your original application
When to contact an attorney
Consider contacting an immigration attorney if the notice asks for evidence, includes a deadline, mentions denial, or you are unsure how to respond. Missing a USCIS deadline can seriously affect your case.
Frequently asked questions
What can I do after my USCIS case is denied?+
You have several options depending on the case type: (1) File a Motion to Reopen (new evidence) or Motion to Reconsider (legal error) using Form I-290B within 30-33 days, (2) Appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO), (3) Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) for some cases, or (4) Refile a new application if your circumstances have changed.
Does a USCIS denial mean I have to leave the United States?+
It depends on your current immigration status. If you have a valid visa or other status, you may remain until it expires. If your only legal basis for staying was the pending application (e.g., pending I-485), a denial may affect your status. Consult an immigration attorney immediately to understand your options.
What is the difference between a Motion to Reopen and a Motion to Reconsider?+
A Motion to Reopen asks USCIS to reopen your case based on new facts or evidence that wasn't available before. A Motion to Reconsider argues that USCIS made a legal or procedural error in the original decision. Both are filed on Form I-290B and must be filed within 30-33 days of the denial.
How long does an appeal take after a USCIS denial?+
Appeals to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) typically take 6-18 months. Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) appeals also take 6-18+ months. Motions to Reopen/Reconsider at the USCIS service center level can be processed faster — sometimes 3-6 months.
Can I refile after a denial?+
In many cases, yes — you can file a new application if your circumstances have changed or if you can address the reasons for the denial. However, be aware that repeated denials can create a record that affects future applications. An attorney can assess whether refiling or appealing is the better strategy.
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.