Step-by-step guides for specific questions that come up during a USCIS case. Each guide links back to the main page for its form or topic.
- EAD Automatic Extension in 2026: What Ended, the Exceptions and How to Avoid a Work Gap
The EAD automatic extension ended for most renewals filed on or after Oct. 30, 2025. See the exceptions, I-9 proof rules and a plan to avoid a work gap.
- Green Card Holder Travel Rules: How Long You Can Stay Abroad and What to Carry
Green card holder travel rules explained: what changes after 6 months or 1 year abroad, when you need a reentry permit, and what to carry before you fly.
- How Long After Biometrics for Interview: What the 2026 Data Shows
How long after biometrics for interview: what USCIS medians show for I-485, N-400 and I-751, worked examples, a wait worksheet and when to ask about delays.
- How to Verify USCIS Notice Letters, Emails and Alerts
How to verify USCIS notice letters and emails: check the receipt number, match your online account, read I-797 details and confirm by phone. Free checklist.
- I-485 Cover Letter: Template, Samples and Enclosure Checklist
USCIS I-485 cover letter guide: a fill-in template, 5 fictional samples, an enclosure order by category and a pre-mailing checklist. Adapt it before you file.
- I-751 Cover Letter and Affidavit Examples: Samples, Template and Exhibit Index
I-751 cover letter samples for joint and waiver filings, an affidavit sample for I-751 from friends or family, a fill-in template and an exhibit index.
- Immigration Lawyer Cost: How Attorneys Charge, What Drives the Price and Where to Find Low-Cost Help
Immigration lawyer cost explained: flat vs hourly immigration lawyer fees, what drives the price, free DOJ-accredited help, and how to verify a lawyer first.
- Immigration Medical Exam Cost: What the Form I-693 Exam Includes, Who Sets the Price and the Current Rules
Immigration medical exam cost explained: what civil surgeons bill for a green card medical exam, how to compare clinics and current I-693 rules to know.
- INA Section 245(i) Explained: Grandfathering, Deadlines and Supplement A
INA section 245(i) explained: the April 30, 2001 deadline, who is grandfathered, which bars it overcomes, Supplement A evidence and when to see a lawyer.
- Lost Green Card: What to Do Right Away, at Home or Abroad
Lost green card? See what to do first: report a theft, guard your identity, get a boarding foil abroad, file Form I-90 and prove your status while you wait.
- Postponing an Asylum Hearing: How Continuances Work, Medical Proof and What Not to Miss
Postponing an asylum hearing due to sickness? See how a motion to continue works, what a doctor's note should say, and when to call a lawyer before you file.
- Sample I-130 Cover Letter: Four Fictional Examples and a Line-by-Line Breakdown
Sample I-130 cover letter examples for a spouse, parent, sibling and green card holder petition, with a line-by-line breakdown and enclosure checklist.
- Travel With Pending I-485: Advance Parole, Risks and the August 2026 Rule Change
Can you travel with pending I-485? See the advance parole rules, the Aug. 2026 unlawful presence change, the parole fee facts and a pre-trip checklist.
- USCIS FOIA Request: How to Get Your A-File and Other Immigration Records
USCIS FOIA request guide: file online in FIRST, write a narrow request, track and appeal it, and send FBI, CBP and court record requests to the right agency.
- USCIS Scams: How to Spot Immigration Fraud and Report It
Spot a USCIS scam fast: what USCIS never does, 14 common schemes, a red-flag checklist, and how to report fraud to the FTC, your state and USCIS.
casestatuscompass.com is an independent publication and is not affiliated with USCIS or any government agency. This page is general information, not legal advice. For denials, court or asylum matters, consult an immigration attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative.