How to keep sane...

[Autumnal 25]

Ever had one of those days where you just wake up and it feels like this journey is never going to end? I've not been in the process that long, compared to some, but today the revelation hit me that it might be another year (or two) before I can resume the normalcy of life I've come to expect. Studying at university, getting everything set up so I don't worry about whether or not some official will say "no, sorry, you're not a resident."

When I looked at the Chicago office's delay on applications, it left a knot in my stomach that just won't go away. I'm not even certain of where my application is (I am assuming Chicago district office, since I live in the area) and how long this will take. I-485s are still back at April 21, 2004. (I wish I could've gone Milwaukee, at least it's April 2005!) That's over a full year away from me, and it's barely moved since I filed in the middle of last year. I don't even know what the status on I-130s is because I can't figure out where it would go.

This whole process today feels sort of a black hole, and one that is a very unpleasant place to be in. I don't know how to alleviate these concerns -- or if I can gain any sort of information that will at least give me something to calm myself with. If I just knew what was going on, that would help, but I don't think there's any way to find out, is there?

A little help would be the spoonful of sugar to make this less bitter than it is.

[ChristinaM 0]

I don't have any answers for you, but I did want to give you a big hug because it's gotta suck being away from a loved one.

[snakey_sabrina1972 0]

Well to make you feel better, I would say that you shouldn't look at those timelines coz most of them are not being updated. I tried doing the USCIS online thing. Where in you have to log on to them and register as a customer. From there, you can really see if they're updating your status. Most of the time, that's the real status of your paper. Although they're really slow in processing at least you can see when did they touched your papers last. I hope you won't get frustrated. I know how it feels. Cheer up! Don't worry, you'll get over this process soon. Take Care and God Bless!

[warriors_wife 0]

I should not be concerned about the updates on the USCIS site, they seem to be way off base! We all understand the agony of waiting and even worse waiting for the signs that your paperwork has been "touched", believe me they dont always update that either but hang in there and know that we are all here to support you

[spi9959 1]

What's really frustrating is that the Chicago office is going backwards in their AOS processing dates. In December, 05, it was processing 8/04. In January, 06, it's processing 4/04. Go figure!

[meauxna 15]

It might help to know that the posted DO dates are for the *oldest case* they have in the office that is not yet adjudicated.

Other, newer files *are* getting approved much more quickly.

To get a reality snapshot, look for others who have filed the same type of application as you and watch their timelines. VJ has a search feature that helps you find others going through the same DO.

Autumnal: since you have your AP and EAD, nothing that much is going to change for your daily life once you get your AOS approved. There are folks in NYC, Florida, Atlanta etc who regularly have a 3 year wait for AOS. It's annoying, but shouldn't stress you out, unless you need to get your naturalization clock started ASAP to bring a family member over or similar.

:sugar:

Oh, I meant to add: Did you move? Because if you did, you'll want to make sure your case has been appropriately transferred to your new office, and make sure you are watching the correct DO for I-485 timelines.. the I-130 doesn't 'move' for an AOS but will be adjudicated at the same time as the I-485 (interview).

Edited February 7, 2006 by meauxna