In the context of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), "premium processing" is a service that allows petitioners to expedite the adjudication of certain immigration petitions and applications for a fee. When you hear that the premium processing clock for your case has been "stopped," it typically means that there has been a delay in processing your case due to specific circumstances.
Here are some details regarding what it may indicate:
Request for Additional Evidence (RFE): If USCIS needs more information to make a decision on your petition, they may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). This can temporarily stop the premium processing clock since the agency is awaiting your response.
Case Update Requirement: Sometimes, if USCIS needs to conduct additional reviews or checks, especially if there are complexities in your case, they might pause the premium processing timeline.
Changes in Filing (Amendments): If there are any amendments or changes to the petition after the initial filing, it may cause the clock to stop.
Administrative Processing: If your case requires additional scrutiny that goes beyond standard processing or if it has been flagged for review (for example, if it involves security checks), this can delay the process.
Timeframe for Response: The premium processing service holds USCIS to a strict timeline, typically processing cases within 15 calendar days. However, the clock can stop when waiting for a response from the applicant, and the 15 days will resume once USCIS receives the necessary information.
- Notification: In such cases, USCIS is generally required to notify you of the stoppage and the reason behind it, either through an official notice or via your online account (if applicable).
If you find that the premium processing clock for your case has stopped, it’s a good idea to review any correspondence from USCIS, check your online case status for updates, and respond promptly to any requests for evidence or information to expedite the process. If you’re unsure of the specific reasons for the stoppage or how to proceed, you might consider consulting with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance.