Many applications are filed at USCIS “lockbox” locations such as I-140, I-485, I-130,  I-765 and other applications.  Typically, receipts for these applications are issued within two weeks. But these are not typical times. On January 8, 2021, USCIS issued an update that receipt notices for applications filed at a lockbox are significantly delayed.  According to the USCIS:

As a result of COVID-19 restrictions, an increase in filings, current postal service volume and other external factors, you may experience a delay of four to six weeks in receiving your receipt notice after properly filing an application or petition with a USCIS lockbox. These delays will not affect the receipt date which is determined pursuant to 8 C.F.R. 103.2(a)(7). Delays may vary among form types and lockbox locations. In some cases, you may experience significant delays if you filed a non-family based Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, or Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, based on eligibility categories described in 8 C.F.R. 274a.12(c)(3), relating to F-1 students.

Read the USCIS notice for more details on this ongoing situation.

This information is provided as an educational service. Consult with an attorney for your specific circumstances.  For a comprehensive evaluation of your immigration options, you are invited to call us at 214-494-8033, or complete our contact form.