July 31, 2023

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The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently expanded myProgress, previously called personalized processing times. It now includes Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) and Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). Applicants can now use myProgress to access personalized estimates while waiting for various steps in their case, including the final decision.

This program provides estimates based on historical patterns of similar cases. As such, it does not guarantee speed because it cannot consider unique circumstances, such as delays. Therefore, the program may provide estimates longer or shorter than the actual processing time. 

Applicants with an online account for USCIS will find that myProgress now includes several other forms. These forms include Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization), and Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card). 

Applicants interested in myProgress must create or log into a USCIS online account to access the program. Once logged in, users may view the estimated progress for pending applications by selecting the cases they want to review. Those who e-filed or linked relevant forms to their online accounts via an online access code should find a tab for the application in myProgress. 

This tab will provide an estimated wait time for the case’s decision and other information, such as checkmarks for completed milestones. These milestones include the following:

• Confirmation that the USCIS has received the application;
• The completion of biometric services appointments, if applicable; and
• The decision on the pending case

Some applicants may qualify for Outside of Normal Processing Times services. According to the USCIS, Outside of Normal Processing Times refers to processing times exceeding the published time frame. Individuals interested should visit the Check Case Processing Times website to see if they have an eligible application and can request the service.

This new service could benefit prospective employers waiting for their employees’ employment authorization. However, it is crucial to remember that employers must verify their new hires’ employment eligibility authorization (Form I-9) if and when it is approved.

Unfortunately, the authorization process has proven increasingly challenging for many employers. Reasons typically include but are not limited to the many documents that new hires can present, foreign national workers in-between statuses, and the ever-changing regulations. 

The best way to avoid costly mistakes and ensure uniform compliance with every new hire is to incorporate an electronic I-9 management system into the hiring process. This tool can provide step-by-step guidance and features to help keep employers compliant.

Learn more about automating your employment eligibility verification and ensuring compliance with I-9Compliance.

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