For many individuals navigating the U.S. immigration system, delays in case processing can cause not just stress—but serious financial, professional, and personal consequences. Fortunately, in certain circumstances, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers a solution: expedited processing.
But expedite requests aren’t for everyone. They are only granted under very specific conditions and require strong supporting documentation. At Zhang-Louie PLLC, we’ve helped clients across industries and life situations understand whether an expedite request is appropriate—and how to pursue it successfully when it is.
What Is an Expedite Request?
An expedite request is a formal request submitted to USCIS asking them to consider processing your case faster than usual. This is not the same as premium processing, which is available only for certain petition types and includes a guaranteed timeframe. Expedite requests are discretionary and considered on a case-by-case basis, with no guaranteed decision timeline.
According to USCIS policy updates as of March and October 2024 (referenced by the American Immigration Lawyers Association – AILA), expedite requests must be supported by clear and compelling evidence that you meet one or more qualifying criteria.
Who Can Qualify for Expedited Processing?
USCIS may consider expedited processing if one or more of the following apply:
1. Severe Financial Loss to a Person or Company
This includes situations where a delay in adjudication would cause significant monetary loss:
- A small business risks losing a key contract without a foreign national’s work authorization
- A medical professional risks job termination due to delays in employment authorization
- An investor may face the collapse of a time-sensitive opportunity
USCIS looks for documented evidence—contracts, business letters, or expert statements—to verify the urgency and severity of loss.
2. Emergencies and Humanitarian Reasons
Humanitarian expedites can apply to a wide range of cases, including:
- Needing to visit or care for a gravely ill family member
- Escaping dangerous conditions in a home country (e.g., armed conflict, natural disasters)
- Medical emergencies requiring U.S. care
These cases require thorough documentation, including medical records, news reports, or letters from professionals or community organizations.
3. Nonprofit Organization Activities
If the applicant is working with a nonprofit performing activities “in furtherance of the cultural or social interests of the United States,” they may qualify.
Examples:
- Cultural performers invited by a recognized U.S. institution
- Medical volunteers aiding underserved populations
- Academics or researchers contributing to public-interest projects
Supporting letters and documentation from the nonprofit are essential.
4. US Government Interest
Requests from federal, state, or local government agencies involved in matters of national security, economic recovery, or public safety may qualify.
This applies to foreign nationals participating in:
- Critical research
- Government contracts
- National interest or infrastructure projects
A government official must submit a letter explaining the urgency and value of the case.
5. USCIS Error
If a delay is caused by a clear USCIS error—such as incorrect information on a document, a lost file, or improper rejection—an expedite may be granted to correct the situation swiftly.
What Types of Applications May Be Expedited?
Expedite requests are most common in the following contexts:
- Work Authorization (Form I-765)
- Advance Parole for Travel (Form I-131)
- Humanitarian Parole
- I-130 Family Petitions (especially for emergencies abroad)
- Employment-Based Petitions
- Change or Extension of Status (Form I-539, I-129)
Note: If your case type is eligible for premium processing, USCIS may deny an expedite unless you are a qualifying nonprofit organization.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
At Zhang-Louie PLLC, we’ve supported clients seeking expedited processing in highly sensitive, urgent, and time-dependent situations. Whether it’s a green card application for a family member facing a medical crisis, or a business leader needing swift work authorization to avoid company losses, we know how to prepare a compelling expedite request that aligns with USCIS criteria.
We assist with:
- Reviewing your eligibility
- Collecting and organizing evidence
- Drafting support letters and legal justifications
- Communicating directly with USCIS or congressional offices
Our experience allows us to anticipate USCIS expectations—and help your request stand out in a crowded system.
Schedule your consultation today to learn whether an expedite request might apply to your case—and how to present it effectively.
