September 7, 2004

InfoPass – Immigration Information by Appointment

InfoPass is an internet-based system implemented by the USCIS that allows applicants for various immigrant and nonimmigrant cases to schedule an appointment with an immigration officer at a local USCIS office. This does not apply to the regional service centers in Vermont, Texas, California or Nebraska. InfoPass is welcome news to many who have been forced to line up outside local offices as early as 4 a.m. in the morning and wait for up to five hours, just to be sent away because the quota for the day had been reached before half of the applicants in line had even reached the door. This can be frustrating for those who miss a day of work and drive hours to try to be one of the first in line.

The new system also benefits those who must apply for interim work authorization or travel documents because their applications remain pending at the service centers and are beyond the processing times.

It is too early to tell how well this system will work but for now, many applicants are pleased with the ease of use of the appointment system and the ability to ensure their application is adjudicated or at least reviewed, on the day they travel to the local USCIS office.

USCIS has initiated InfoPass in 26 district offices in major metropolitan areas around the United States. To check if InfoPass is available in your area, or to schedule an appointment, refer to the USCIS website at http://infopass.uscis.gov/. Greenberg Traurig will provide updates as they come available.