Can an Immigration Lawyer Speed Up the Process?
Waiting on an immigration case can feel stressful.
Many people wonder: can an immigration lawyer speed up the process?
While a lawyer cannot make USCIS or other agencies work faster, they can help you avoid mistakes that lead to delays and, in some cases, request an expedite if you qualify.
Their role is to keep your case moving and reduce avoidable delays.
Key Takeaways
- An immigration lawyer cannot force USCIS to speed up your case.
- A lawyer can help prevent delays by making sure forms and documents are filed correctly.
- Attorneys may request an expedite in limited situations (humanitarian need, financial loss, USCIS error).
- Having legal guidance gives you a better chance of avoiding mistakes that cause long wait times.
What an Immigration Lawyer Can (and Cannot) Do
An immigration lawyer cannot control government backlogs or guarantee a faster approval.
USCIS and other agencies follow their own timelines, and no lawyer can override that.
What an immigration lawyer can do is help you avoid mistakes that commonly slow down cases.
Incomplete applications, missing evidence, or incorrect forms often result in Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or even denials—each of which adds time to your case.
A lawyer’s role is to make sure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted correctly the first time.
They can also explain options like premium processing (when available) and whether an expedite request may be appropriate.
How Lawyers Help Avoid Delays
Even small errors can set your case back months.
A lawyer can reduce the chances of this happening by:
- Making sure all required forms are filled out correctly
- Gathering and organizing supporting documents
- Tracking deadlines and filing dates
- Responding promptly to government requests
- Monitoring case status and following up when appropriate
By handling these details, an attorney helps keep your case on track and avoids unnecessary delays.
Can a Lawyer Request to Expedite My Immigration Case?
In certain situations, an immigration lawyer may be able to request an expedite on your behalf.
USCIS allows expedite requests for limited reasons, including:
- Severe financial loss to a company or person
- Urgent humanitarian reasons
- Nonprofit organization work furthering cultural or social interests
- Clear USCIS error
Approval of an expedite request is never guaranteed.
A lawyer can help determine if you qualify and prepare the strongest possible request with supporting evidence.
An approved expedite typically affects how quickly the agency reviews your case—it does not replace eligibility requirements or skip necessary steps.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONCommon Reasons Immigration Cases Get Delayed
Immigration cases are often delayed for reasons outside your control, such as:
- Backlogs at USCIS or consulates
- Security and background checks
- Administrative errors
- Increased demand for certain types of visas
Because these delays are tied to government processing, a lawyer cannot make them disappear.
What they can do is communicate with the agency, follow up on your case, and ensure everything on your end is handled correctly.
Checking official Processing times can also help you understand typical ranges for your case type.
Do You Really Need a Lawyer to Move Things Faster?
Not every case requires an attorney, but having one often gives you peace of mind.
For many people, the biggest benefit is knowing that your paperwork is accurate and your rights are protected.
While a lawyer cannot guarantee faster processing, they can help you avoid mistakes and identify opportunities to keep your case moving when possible.
If you’re feeling stuck, consulting with an immigration lawyer can provide clarity about your options.
Moving Forward
Immigration cases are rarely quick, and the waiting can be difficult.
While no attorney can guarantee faster results, working with an immigration lawyer often means fewer delays and a better understanding of your options.
At Quijano Law in Atlanta, Georgia, we help individuals and families navigate the immigration process with careful preparation and attention to detail.
If you’re facing delays or want to make sure your case is filed correctly, consulting with an attorney may be an important step.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONFAQs
Can a lawyer speed up my immigration case?
A lawyer cannot change USCIS timelines, but they can help you avoid mistakes and pursue expedite requests when appropriate.
Is the immigration process faster with a lawyer?
Not automatically. The process depends on USCIS, but a lawyer can make it smoother by preventing errors that often cause long delays.
Can a lawyer expedite a USCIS case?
Yes, in certain situations. Attorneys can request an expedite if you meet criteria such as urgent humanitarian need, severe financial loss, or USCIS error.
How can I speed up my immigration process?
The best way is to ensure your application is complete, accurate, and supported by the right documents. In some cases, an expedite request may be possible.
How quickly could an immigrant be processed?
Processing times vary widely depending on the type of application, country of origin, and government backlogs. Some cases take months, while others can take years.
What is the fastest way to get USCIS to process my case?
There’s no guaranteed shortcut, but properly filed applications and, in some cases, an expedite request may help.
Does hiring a lawyer make my green card come faster?
Not directly. A lawyer’s role is to avoid errors, prevent delays, and handle any issues that may slow your case down.
Can a lawyer help if USCIS is delayed?
Yes. A lawyer can follow up with USCIS, submit inquiries, and ensure your case is not stuck due to avoidable issues.
What qualifies for an immigration case expedite request?
USCIS considers reasons like severe financial loss, humanitarian emergencies, nonprofit interests, or clear USCIS error
