What to Do if Your Family-Based Green Card Case Is Stuck in Administrative Processing

 Posted on August 25, 2025 in Asylum

For many families, the approval of a family-based green card is the final step toward stability in the United States. But in some cases, even after an interview or document submission, people receive notice that their case is in "administrative processing." This can be a frustrating, uncertain period, especially for South Asian and Muslim families, who sometimes face longer review times due to additional security checks.

At Hafey & Karim, we are here to provide trusted support for these difficult situations. Attorney Karim reads, writes, and speaks Bengali fluently, and she understands the cultural and religious factors that matter to South Asian and Muslim families navigating U.S. immigration procedures. If you are waiting for your green card or a family member’s green card to get approved, you do not have to sit around and wait. With the help of our Bay Area immigration lawyers, you can act.. 

What Is Green Card "Administrative Processing?"

Administrative processing is a period of further review after your case has been examined by a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer or a consular officer abroad. It typically happens when the government needs to conduct additional background or security checks, or more information or documentation is required to confirm eligibility. Sometimes it may happen because there are questions about the authenticity of submitted documents or the relationship between petitioner and beneficiary.

While the U.S. State Department says most administrative processing is resolved within 60 days, some cases, particularly those involving applicants from certain countries or with complex backgrounds, can take many months or even years.

Why Green Card Cases Get Delayed

For South Asian and Muslim applicants, delays may be triggered by:

• Name matches with individuals on security watchlists

• Previous international travel to certain regions

• Incomplete or inconsistent paperwork

• Requests for more proof of the family relationship

These delays are not accusations, but they can place tremendous strain on families separated by distance.

Our team can step in to address administrative processing delays by contacting the consulate or USCIS to determine the specific reason for the hold and then submitting additional documentation or clarifications to resolve outstanding questions. If necessary, we will try to coordinate with congressional offices to inquire about and potentially expedite your case. Regardless of what your case needs, we will make sure all communications are clear, complete, and strategically framed to avoid further delays

For example, if the issue is missing documentation proving a spousal relationship, we can help you put together marriage certificates, records showing shared finances, affidavits from family members, and other culturally relevant evidence to strengthen your case.

What You Can Do to Protect Your Rights During the Green Card Wait

Families often feel powerless during administrative processing, but you have the right to ask for updates, additional evidence, and information about whether your case is being handled fairly. Working with an immigration attorney who is familiar with cultural nuances and the legal process gives you a stronger voice.

Attorney Karim’s background serving South Asian and Muslim communities means she understands not only the legal challenges but also the emotional and cultural concerns involved. Whether you are in the Bay Area or abroad waiting for a family member to join you, we can guide you through each step until your case moves forward.

Contact a San Francisco Immigration Attorney

If your family-based green card case is stuck in administrative processing, do not wait and hope it resolves on its own. Contact a Bay Area immigration lawyer at Hafey & Karim by calling 214-506-0671 to schedule a free consultation. We speak English and Bengali fluently, and have translators for Spanish, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu to ensure your family receives the clear, compassionate, and effective legal support you need.