Navigating the USCIS application process can be lengthy and frustrating, especially when facing urgent circumstances. An expedite request offers a potential solution to accelerate the processing of your case. However, it’s crucial to understand that USCIS approval for expedite requests is not guaranteed and depends on meeting specific criteria. These criteria typically revolve around demonstrating significant hardship, humanitarian reasons, national interest, or compelling government interest. Crafting a persuasive and well-documented expedite request letter is therefore essential for maximizing your chances of success.
A strong expedite request letter clearly outlines the reason for your request, provides supporting documentation, and demonstrates how your situation aligns with USCIS’s expedite criteria. Vague or unsubstantiated claims are unlikely to be successful. It’s important to be specific and provide concrete evidence to support your argument. For instance, if you are requesting an expedite based on financial hardship, include documentation such as bank statements, eviction notices, or medical bills. The more comprehensive and compelling your documentation, the stronger your case will be.
Below are 24 sample letters tailored for various situations to assist in composing an effective USCIS expedite request letter. Remember to personalize each sample letter to reflect your unique circumstances, replace the bracketed information, and always include supporting documentation. These examples are for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.
Sample Expedite Request Letters
Sample 1: Medical Emergency
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Medical Emergency
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. My [Relationship to you, e.g., mother] has recently been diagnosed with [Medical Condition] and requires urgent medical treatment in [Country]. Delays in processing my application will prevent me from being present to provide necessary care and support. Attached please find supporting documentation from [Hospital Name] outlining the severity of the condition and the urgency of the treatment.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: Financial Hardship
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Severe Financial Hardship
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. Due to unforeseen circumstances, including [Briefly explain the circumstances, e.g., job loss, unexpected medical bills], I am experiencing severe financial hardship. I am at risk of [Specific consequences, e.g., eviction, inability to afford food and medicine]. Granting my application would allow me to [Explain how approval would alleviate the hardship, e.g., obtain employment, secure housing]. I have attached supporting documentation including [List documents, e.g., bank statements, eviction notice, unemployment benefits letter].
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: National Interest (Example: Healthcare Worker)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – National Interest (Healthcare)
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I am a [Your Profession, e.g., Registered Nurse] and have a confirmed job offer at [Hospital Name] in [City, State]. Due to the current healthcare crisis and staffing shortages, my skills and expertise are urgently needed to provide patient care. Delaying my application would exacerbate the existing strain on the healthcare system. I have attached my job offer letter, professional license, and documentation outlining the critical staffing needs at [Hospital Name].
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Humanitarian Reasons (Example: Sole Caregiver)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Humanitarian Reasons (Sole Caregiver)
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I am the sole caregiver for my [Relationship, e.g., elderly father] who suffers from [Medical Condition]. His condition requires constant care and attention, and I am the only person available to provide it. If my application is not processed in a timely manner, it will severely impact his well-being and potentially lead to a decline in his health. I have attached a doctor’s letter outlining his medical condition and the necessity of my caregiving role.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Compelling Government Interest
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Compelling Government Interest
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. My role as a [Your Profession/Position] at [Government Agency/Department] is critical to [Explain how your work contributes to the government interest, e.g., national security, public health]. Delays in processing my application will significantly hinder my ability to perform my duties and negatively impact the government’s ability to [Specific impact]. I have attached a letter from [Supervisors Name and Title] at [Government Agency/Department] outlining the importance of my role and the urgency of my situation.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Loss of Significant Opportunity
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Loss of Significant Opportunity
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I have been offered a significant career opportunity as a [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], starting on [Start Date]. This position represents a substantial advancement in my field and would significantly improve my financial stability. The delay in processing my application is jeopardizing this opportunity, as the company has indicated they will withdraw the offer if I cannot begin by the specified date. I have attached my job offer letter and documentation outlining the unique nature and importance of this opportunity.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Child’s Welfare and Wellbeing
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Child’s Welfare and Wellbeing
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. The well-being of my child, [Child’s Name], is being directly affected by the delay in processing my application. [Explain how the delay is affecting the child – e.g., separation from a parent, inability to access medical care, educational disadvantages]. The current situation is causing significant emotional distress to my child. I have attached [Supporting documents – e.g., school reports, medical records, psychological evaluations].
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Risk of Deportation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Imminent Risk of Deportation
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I am at imminent risk of deportation because [Explain the reason for the deportation risk, e.g., pending deportation order, expiring visa]. If I am deported, it will cause significant hardship to [Explain hardship, e.g., my family, my community]. [Provide details of hardship; this can include financial, emotional, or other types of hardship]. I have attached [Supporting documents – e.g., deportation order, legal documents, family documentation].
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 9: Natural Disaster
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Natural Disaster
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I have been severely impacted by [Name of Natural Disaster, e.g., Hurricane XYZ]. As a result of the disaster, I have [Explain the impact of the disaster, e.g., lost my home, lost my job, suffered property damage]. The delay in processing my application is further exacerbating my hardship and preventing me from rebuilding my life. I have attached [Supporting documents – e.g., FEMA registration, insurance claims, photos of damage].
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Urgent Travel for Family Matter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Urgent Travel for Family Matter
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I need to travel urgently to [Country] due to [Explain the family matter – e.g., the unexpected illness of a parent]. Delaying my travel would cause significant distress to my family and could prevent me from providing necessary support. I have attached [Supporting documents – e.g., a doctor’s note, a death certificate].
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 11: Aging Parent’s Health Decline
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Aging Parent’s Health Decline
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. My [Mother/Father], who resides in [Country], is experiencing a rapid decline in health due to [Specific illness]. As their [Son/Daughter], I am needed to assist with their care and to make important medical decisions. Delays in processing my application prevent me from being with them during this critical time. I have attached a doctor’s letter confirming the severity of their condition and the need for my presence. I can provide further documentation upon request.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Business Opportunity Loss
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Impending Business Opportunity Loss
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I have been presented with a significant business opportunity in [Country or City] that requires my immediate presence. This opportunity will allow me to [Describe the benefits of the business opportunity; job creation, economic impact, etc.]. The deadline to seize this opportunity is fast approaching and will be lost if I am unable to travel promptly. I have attached a detailed business plan and confirmation from potential partners outlining the time-sensitive nature of this venture. I can provide further evidence upon request.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 13: Orphan Adoption
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Orphan Adoption
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number], related to the adoption of [Child’s Name], an orphan residing in [Country]. The child’s current living situation is precarious due to [Explain the vulnerable circumstances of the child]. Delay in processing my application will prolong the child’s suffering and potentially jeopardize the adoption process. I have attached all relevant adoption paperwork and documentation detailing the child’s urgent need for a stable and loving home with me. Further documentation can be provided upon request.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 14: Educational Opportunity
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Educational Opportunity
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I have been accepted into [Name of University/Program], a highly competitive program in [Field of Study], with a start date of [Start Date]. Delay in the processing of my application prevents me from attending this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, severely impacting my academic and professional development. I am including my acceptance letter, financial aid documentation, and program details to support my case. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need further information.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 15: Preventing Separation of Family Members
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Preventing Separation of Family Members
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. Delaying the processing of my application is actively leading to the prolonged separation of my family. [Clearly state the family relationships involved and the reasons for separation. For example: “My spouse and children are currently living in [Country], and the delays are causing them significant emotional distress.”]. The absence of a unified family unit is causing significant hardship on all members involved. I have attached supporting documentation regarding our family situation, including [Marriage Certificate, birth certificates, declarations].
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 16: Victim of Crime Assistance
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Victim of Crime Assistance
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I am a victim of [Specific crime] and require immediate assistance. [Clearly state the crime and the urgent need for processing the USCIS application; for example: “I am a victim of domestic violence and need to be able to work legally in order to escape an abusive situation.”]. Delay in processing my application will prevent me from accessing essential resources and support. I have attached a police report and statements to support my claim. I am available to answer additional questions.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 17: Critical Infrastructure Support
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Critical Infrastructure Support
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I am an employee of [Company Name], which is a critical infrastructure company that provides essential services in [Specific industry, e.g., energy, transportation]. My role as a [Your Job Title] is crucial to maintaining the company’s operations. A delay in my application would have serious consequences for the reliability of the provided services. I have provided supporting documents from my employer and details on how this matter relates to national interests. I am open to provide more details to show the support.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 18: Significant Negative Impact on US Economy
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Significant Negative Impact on US Economy
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. The delay in processing my application has a measurable, detrimental impact on the U.S. economy. I am in a position where a delay in processing has a significant financial effect. I have a measurable effect on the current economy and contribute in various jobs. [Provide specifics, such as: I lead a project involving the construction of [Project description] and delay will cause significant financial harm]. I have attached relevant business proposals and details on how this would negatively affect the nation’s financial status. I am available to provide more information at request.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 19: Endangerment of Health or Safety
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Endangerment of Health or Safety
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. A delay in processing my case will directly endanger the health or safety of [Yourself or others]. [Specify the endangerment. For example: I require medical treatment which cannot be delayed]. Provide details and documentation such as physician letters, or other proof of significant damage to personal health. Provide other relevant information at request.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 20: Loss of Critical Benefits
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Loss of Critical Benefits
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. The delay of your application will cause for the loss of critical benefits. A specific benefit and/or services is in danger of being lost. Provide details on the benefits and include details and any requirements that can be achieved. [Provide specific benefit; HealthCare, Social Security Income, Educational Benefits]. A letter from a professional of that said industry can benefit this process.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 21: Military Service
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Military Service
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. I am a member of the U.S. Military. I am a service man from the following branch [Army, AirForce, Navy, or Marines]. Provide reason why you need to expedite, or how it will benefit your commitment to the military. Provide your branch contact, and other information for verification. A letter from a commander can benefit this process.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 22: Urgent Need to Provide Care for Ailing Family Member
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Urgent Need to Provide Care for Ailing Family Member
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. There is an urgent need to provide care and support for an ailing member. The family is suffering and is in critical need of support. [Provide specific health issue from physician and reasoning]. A letter from a physician can benefit this process.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 23: Government Error or Negligence
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Government Error or Negligence
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. This is due to the fact that there has been an error or negligence from the government entity. There was a mistake in processing, there was misplacement in documentation, or there are other potential errors in the processing of the application. [Provide details of issue with evidence if possible].
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 24: Urgent Employment Need
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
Subject: Expedite Request for [Form Number] – [Receipt Number] – Urgent Employment Need
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an expedited review of my [Form Number] application, Receipt Number [Receipt Number]. There is an urgent need for employment. I would provide this explanation to detail this need and how it will benefit. Provide the industry job and how the employment is helpful. Provide an offer letter and potential industry professional contact details for questions.
I respectfully request your favorable consideration of this expedite request. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Submitting a USCIS expedite request requires careful preparation and a clear articulation of your qualifying circumstances. While the samples provided serve as helpful templates, remember to adapt them to your specific situation and provide compelling supporting documentation. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney for personalized legal advice regarding your expedite request and to ensure you are presenting the strongest possible case to USCIS. Ultimately, the decision to expedite your application rests with USCIS, but a well-crafted and thoroughly documented request significantly increases your chances
