USCIS Status- Initial Review?

[kokylolo 7]

I received my NOA 1 by email on November 2. I received my hard copy today. I checked the USCIS website on November 5th and it showed Accepted. I checked it again on the 8th and it showed case updated November 7, but still showed as being Accepted. Today, I checked and it said it is in Initial Review. This is what else it says:

During this step, USCIS initiates the background checks of the applicant/petitioner and identifies issues that may need to be addressed either during an interview or by asking the applicant/petitioner to submit additional information or documentation. USCIS reviews the applicant's/petitioner's criminal history, determines if there are national security concerns that need to be addressed, and reviews the application/petition for fraud indicators.

My question is: Is this the normal status you receive after just 5 days at UCSIS? I'm just curious to know if it really means- Your file is on a shelf somewhere and we will really start reviewing it in 5 months?

Any responses would be totally appreciated.

[Kengux 3]

Yes, your petition is in the right frame of timing. It will continue to be on initial review until probably when it's approved.

Ours was in initial review for 95days until it changed to approved in 97days. So you're in good standing. Nothing to worry about.

[GnBnL 50]

yup. in a pile. the waiting game!

[GnBnL 50]

yup. in a pile. the waiting game!

[kokylolo 7]

yup. in a pile. the waiting game!

It was a relief to see that they accepted my package, and then another exciting moment to change status from accepted to initial review....Now, I hope these days fly by and I receive my next notice on schedule.

[Ge <3 Gi 0]

It was a relief to see that they accepted my package, and then another exciting moment to change status from accepted to initial review....Now, I hope these days fly by and I receive my next notice on schedule.

Accepting the package does not necessary mean that everything is right. Once its turn comes to look at, then they will know if you sent everything or not. I am not trying to be negative but you need know this. Good luck!!

[NY_BX 397]

It was a relief to see that they accepted my package, and then another exciting moment to change status from accepted to initial review....Now, I hope these days fly by and I receive my next notice on schedule.

Accepted means that someone signed for it and it is on a pile of files. It doesn't mean that you passed all the required checks. Then, Initial review means that they are checking everything. If you missed something or anything seems odd, you may receive an RFE. Initial Review usually means 'sit and wait for aproximately 5 months,' hopefully less. Good luck!

Edited November 11, 2011 by NY_BX

[kokylolo 7]

I hope this was thorough enough for USCIS. Any input would be appreciated.

Edited November 12, 2011 by kokylolo

[kokylolo 7]

I hope this was thorough enough for USCIS. Any input would be appreciated.

Accepting the package does not necessary mean that everything is right. Once its turn comes to look at, then they will know if you sent everything or not. I am not trying to be negative but you need know this. Good luck!!

Thanks for the response. I am confident that I sent them everything that they need. Whether they lose a document or two, who knows? Maybe you can tell me if it looks like I sent them all that they will need?

Contents include:

- Payment in the amount of $ 420.

- G-1145

- I-130

- G-325A and passport style photo (Petitioner)

- G-325A and passport style photo (Beneficiary)

- Birth certificate/US Passport (Petitioner)

- Birth certificate/Passport (with translation-Beneficiary)

- Police report (with translation-Beneficiary)

- Divorce Papers certified (Petitioner)

- Marriage Certificate (with Certified Translation by US Embassy)

- Proof of ongoing relationship

* Wedding photos/ Miscellaneous Photos

* Copies of mailed packages

* Phone Bills (Normally use Phone Cards)

* Flight Itinerary

* Western Union receipts

* Work Emergency Contact (For Petitioner)

* Employee Benefits Statement Showing coverage for beneficiary (For Petitioner)

* Beneficiary Statement- allocating 100% life benefits to Beneficiary (For Petitioner)

* Email Log of Daily Correspondences

[meno-is-mine 37]

WOW, you sent in alot more than I did. Seems all is well...i sent u a message, btw...been busy past couple of days...the waiting game = NOT FUN!!!

[kokylolo 7]

WOW, you sent in alot more than I did. Seems all is well...i sent u a message, btw...been busy past couple of days...the waiting game = NOT FUN!!!

The waiting game is definitely not fun. I will be leaving to Egypt on Christmas Eve. So this may sound kind of goofy, but this is how I cope. I surround myself with everything Christmas. I watch Christmas Hallmark movies I listen to Christmas music at work It makes me feel very close to the time I will soon be with my husband again and it gives me a good Christmas vibe :D

Thanks for your input on what I sent with my I-130. I wanted to have every document that is needed before I started the process. I know people normally don't send in the Police certificate at this stage, but I figured this is the stage where they will be doing background checks, so I wanted them to have anything that will make it easier for them. I am also aware that it is possible that my husband will have to get a new police report later on. That is a simple task and knowing the procedure and process ahead of time is a benefit to us.