Strategies for Addressing Delayed USCIS Cases for Cuban Residents

Thousands of Cuban nationals find themselves stuck with stalled residency cases that have remained unresolved for months or even years. However, there is a tangible method available to potentially expedite these cases: the e-request through USCIS. Immigration attorney Liudmila Marcelo provides a comprehensive guide on how to utilize this tool, both electronically and via phone.

Online Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The electronic process is often the most straightforward. Marcelo emphasizes that the USCIS website conveniently guides applicants by specifying the necessary information: receipt number, type of application, applicant's name, and a brief description of the issue at hand.

"The USCIS website essentially walks you through the process, asking for the required details," Marcelo explained. "When you search for making an e-request on the site, it prompts you to enter your receipt number, the application type, your name, and a concise description of the situation."

Marcelo advises being succinct in the description. "State that you applied for residency on a specific date, how long it has been without movement, and that you've yet to receive any updates. This method is quite simple and efficient."

Telephone Option: An Alternative Approach

The second method involves contacting USCIS via their hotline at 1-800-375-5283. When prompted by the automated system, selecting the "info pass" option connects you to a representative. The message to convey is similar: how long the case has lacked a response and the current status.

However, Marcelo warns that for Cuban adjustment cases, this approach may not always yield results since USCIS lacks a defined processing time for these applications. "They often claim the case is within processing time because there isn't one set for Cuban adjustments, leading to further delays," she noted.

Additional Benefits of Phone Inquiries

Despite potential limitations, calling USCIS can uncover crucial information: the office handling your case. "Knowing where your case is located is vital if you have new evidence to submit," Marcelo explained. "Once you identify the office, you can send a written request."

Submitting documentation to the appropriate office allows for the inclusion of updated evidence. "You might send evidence of continuous residency or any relevant documents to show you're actively engaged with your case," she advised.

Recommended Documentation for Cuban Adjustment Cases

Marcelo highlights the importance of providing evidence of good character and personal achievements, as USCIS rigorously evaluates eligibility and the discretion of the officer in charge of Cuban adjustment cases.

"Include certificates from courses, recognitions at work, or the establishment of businesses. Evidence of good conduct is crucial and can influence the officer's decision," she stated.

Additionally, she suggests including updated criminal background checks, especially if no records exist, to strengthen the applicant's profile.

Current Context for Cuban Applicants

This guidance comes at a time when Cuban applicants face significant delays. Green card approvals for Cubans plummeted by 99.8% between October 2024 and January 2026, dropping from over 10,000 monthly to only 15 cases.

A June 2026 court ruling overturned four USCIS policies that had frozen these processes, mandating a resumption of proceedings for nationals from 39 countries, Cuba included. Since May 2026, new interview appointments have been reported, which Marcelo views as a positive development.