What does “Motion To Reopen Was Filed” mean?

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Direct answer

A motion to reopen or reconsider a USCIS decision has been filed. USCIS will review the motion and either reopen the case or issue a decision on the motion.

What comes next

USCIS will review the motion under the applicable standard. A motion to reopen relies on new facts; a motion to reconsider argues that the decision misapplied law or policy. Follow the receipt and later notices.

Typical timeline

USCIS does not publish one motion-processing period for every form and office. Follow the receipt and current case-specific information.

If you're stuck on this status

If your motion has been pending more than 12 months, submit an e-Request through your USCIS online account. Motions do not have a mandated processing deadline, but you can flag extended delays through a congressional inquiry.

What to do now
  • 1Confirm your motion was filed by the exact deadline stated in the denial notice
  • 2Make sure all supporting evidence was included with the motion
  • 3Consult an immigration attorney if you do not have one: motions require legal precision
  • 4Do not file a separate appeal while the motion is pending unless advised to do so by an attorney
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.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a motion to reopen and a motion to reconsider?
A motion to reopen introduces new facts, evidence, or changed circumstances that were not part of the original record. A motion to reconsider argues that USCIS made a legal or factual error when applying the law to the existing record: no new evidence is presented.
How long do I have to file a motion after a denial?
The denial notice states the controlling deadline, filing location, and review path. These vary by decision and jurisdiction; missing the stated deadline can make a filing untimely.
What are the chances my motion will succeed?
Success rates vary significantly by case type and the specific grounds for the motion. Motions based on clear USCIS legal errors tend to be more successful than those based on new evidence that could have been submitted earlier. An immigration attorney can assess the strength of your specific motion.
Can I file both a motion to reopen and an appeal at the same time?
Generally yes. A motion goes back to the original decision-maker while an appeal goes to the AAO or BIA, and they are distinct procedural vehicles. However, filing both simultaneously is expensive and the interaction between them can be complex. An attorney can advise whether dual filing makes sense for your specific situation and which strategy is more likely to succeed.
What happens if my motion is denied?
If USCIS denies your motion, you may be able to appeal to the AAO or BIA (depending on the case type). Consult an attorney immediately after a motion denial to understand your remaining options and deadlines.

Related status messages

Case Was Denied →Case Was Reopened →Appeal Was Filed →
Official and related resources
Check your official USCIS case status →Check USCIS processing times →Compare timelines by USCIS form →Browse the USCIS status glossary →

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Related
Use the interactive decoder →See current USCIS processing times →Status: Appeal Was Filed→Status: We Ordered Your New Card→Status: Card Was Picked Up By The Usps→What Every USCIS Case Status Actually Means (2026 Guide)→USCIS Processing Times 2026: How to Check the Official Tool→

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.