Your receipt number for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is a 13-character identification code that USCIS uses to identify and track your case. The receipt number will contain three letters followed by ten numbers. The letters identify the USCIS service center that is processing your application and will be either EAC, WAC, LIN, SRC, NBC, MSC, or IOE. The ten numbers that follow are a combination of the date your case was opened and your unique case number. USCIS will print your receipt number on any correspondence they send you regarding your application. You will need your receipt number to check your application status. This article explains what a USCIS receipt number is, where to find it, how to read it, and how to use it to check your application’s status.

You will receive your USCIS Receipt Number after you file your application. ImmigrationHelp.org can help you prepare your immigration application for free with our easy-to-use online tool. Click the “Get Started” button above or read on to learn more.

USCIS Receipt Number Format

Each USCIS application like H1B or L visa is issued a receipt number within 1-3 days of receiving.

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Each application submitted to USCIS is given a distinct 13-character case number. This case number is referred to by USCIS as your case’s “receipt number.” Which USCIS service centre is handling your case is indicated by the first three characters of your case’s receipt number.

Your receipt number will begin with “WAC” if your case is being processed by the USCIS California Service Center (CSC). Your receipt number will start with the letters “LIN” if your case is being handled by the Nebraska Service Center (NSC). Your receipt number will begin with the letters “SRC” if your case is being handled by the Texas Service Center (TSC). Your receipt number will start with the letters “EAC” if your application was submitted through the Vermont Service Center (VSC). Your number may begin “MSC” or “NBC” if the National Benefits Center (NBC) is handling your case. Your receipt number will start with “IOE” if USCIS is processing your application online. Your entire USCIS receipt number will be made up of the first three letters plus 10 numbers.

How do I find my USCIS receipt number?

When USCIS receives your application, they will notify you by receipt notice. The receipt notification includes your receipt number. The top left corner of the receipt message will have the 13-character receipt number. EAC, LIN, WAC, IOE, NBC, MSC, or SRC will be the first letter, followed by 10 numerals. It will use your receipt number to check your application status.

USCIS Case Processing Times

You can track your case processing time by using our daily tracker for H1B, H4, H4/L2 EAD (i765), i140, I130 (Green card for relatives), i485 (Adjustment of Status) that’s updated with real-time data from various user-driven forums.

You can also check processing time on official USCIS website.