AOS timeline and experience

[sitdownbehumble 2]

I'd like to share my timeline with everyone. This forum, along with couple other sites, has helped me tremendously. 

 

PD Jan/02/2018 -- everything except Ap

Bio Feb/01/2018

PD for AP Feb/28/2018

Interview Letter March/26/2018

AP approval April/18/2018

Interview Date May/03/2018

No decisions from the interview yet 

No EAD from NBC yet

 

Few things I learned that I hope to help you understand the process

 

1. Online Case Status depends on your IO who handles your file -- meaning if you are lucky to have a tech-savvy IO who handles your case, your online case status will give you the most accurate information. Unlike my case, my bundle(485, 765, 130) never really have good information, or they were delayed, misinformed. My AP case, which I filed later, has more accurate information and timeline. Thus, just because your case never updated online does not mean no one is reviewing it, always refer to the actual letters!

 

2. Infopass is only helpful when your file reaches the local office. Sometimes, not every Infopass IO will be able to give you the most helpful information. I was told that I need to wait for at least 10 months before I will receive the interview notice, that notice came two weeks after my Infopass. So don't take everything has a hard fact. The myth about immigration case is that everyone's situation is different.

 

3. Customer service line is only useful when you're doing non-case status related admin -- like changing your address or reschedule things. I would not recommend you call the customer service just to find out your case status; you will most likely receive a scripted answer from the Tier 1 officers. My experience is that when your Online Case Status is not updating, calling customer service does not help. Tier 2 officers are a bit more knowledgeable, but they can only inform you the process, you will not get a case update from them because they are not the one who reviewed your case. 

 

4. Don't compare your case to the others that are posted online, everyone's case is different. As someone who used to suffer from anxiety, I can tell you how much sleepless night I had simply because I was worried. But patience is the key to conquer your immigration journey. Spend time on being productive and get on with your daily life, develop an interest or just enjoy the time that you don't have to work. 

 

5. No personal questions were asked during our interview. The officer dived into my basic information and then 485 yes/no questions. The only few requests during the interview are to see the original marriage certificate, passports. While she went out to copy my passport, I prepared her a folder of proof of genuine marriage -- photos, finances, and other share life evidence. We had some small talk during the interview, she came across as a serious lady who knew what she is doing, but nevertheless, she was friendly to my spouse and me. Toward the end, she didn't approve us on the spot and said we would receive something in the mail. Nothing else was handed to us(like a letter stating your case is under review). 

 

I've been waiting since, but I am hopeful. And I hope you guys are the same! I figured if she has any doubt in my case she would ask us during the interview; she has been with USCIS for 30 years, it was pretty amazing to hear that. 

 

Field Office: Philadelphia

 

I'd love to answer your questions if you have any. 

 

Wish you all the best, I hope everyone conquers their journey soon.