How the CIS Ombudsman Can Assist Your Immigration Case

When to Seek Help from the CIS Ombudsman for Immigration Issues

Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be challenging. Knowing when and how the Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) Ombudsman can assist can make your journey smoother. This guide explains when to seek their help, outlines their limitations, and provides steps to request their assistance effectively. For more detailed information, you can also visit the DHS Case Assistance page.

When Can the CIS Ombudsman Assist You?

The CIS Ombudsman can be a valuable resource in specific situations, such as:

1. Delayed Cases: If your case exceeds the standard processing times (especially those pending for over six months), the CIS Ombudsman can help escalate it.
2. Misprints and Errors: For misprints in immigration documents or cases rejected due to factual errors or misapplication of law, they can provide assistance.
3. Eligibility Concerns: If your case risks “aging out” and losing eligibility for an immigration benefit, seek their help.
4. Military Personnel Cases: U.S. military members and their families facing unique immigration issues may receive targeted support.
5. Priority-2 Direct Access Program: Individuals in removal proceedings with pending USCIS applications that could affect these proceedings may find relief.
6. Systemic Issues: Report broader systemic issues that need higher-level review for better resolution.
7. Lost or Transferred Files: If your case involves lost or improperly transferred files, the CIS Ombudsman can investigate.
8. Mailing Problems: They can help with non-delivery of correspondence or documents.
9. Special Circumstances: Emergencies or hardships meeting USCIS expedited criteria may qualify for assistance.

Limitations of CIS Ombudsman’s Intervention

While the CIS Ombudsman offers valuable support, there are limits to what they can do:

• Cases Within Processing Times: If your case is within the posted processing times, they generally will not intervene unless specific statutory or regulatory time limits apply.
• Rejected Expedited Requests: They may not assist if a USCIS expedited request is denied.
• No Legal Advice: The CIS Ombudsman does not provide legal advice.
• Non-USCIS Issues: Matters unrelated to USCIS, such as visa applications managed by other agencies, fall outside their scope.
• Communication Restrictions: They cannot communicate with third parties without written consent from the applicant or attorney.
• Approvals: They cannot force USCIS to approve an application or petition.
• Third-Party Misinformation: They do not rectify issues arising from misinformation provided by third parties.
• Exclusive Jurisdiction Matters: They cannot handle cases under the exclusive control of another government department or agency.

Steps to Request CIS Ombudsman Assistance

Follow these steps to request help from the CIS Ombudsman:

1. Check USCIS Processing Times: Ensure that your case is outside the published processing times.
2. Create a USCIS Account: Set up an online account for easier tracking and direct communication with USCIS.
3. Complete the DHS Form 7001: This form is required to request case assistance and should be filled out accurately. Access the form and more guidance through the DHS Case Assistance page.
4. Submit Documentation: Include any relevant documents that support your request for assistance.

Conclusion

Understanding when to seek the CIS Ombudsman’s help and knowing their limitations can make navigating the immigration process easier. For specific legal advice or more complex cases, consider consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer who can guide you through the process and ensure your case is handled effectively.

• USCIS: The Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman