Definition
USCIS Receipt Number
A 13-character identifier assigned to each USCIS case (e.g., MSC2090123456).
The receipt number begins with three letters indicating the service center (MSC, SRC, EAC, WAC, NBC, IOE, LIN, YSC) followed by the fiscal year and a sequential case number. It is the primary way to look up case status online.
See also
More immigration terms
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USCIS Service Center
A USCIS facility that processes paperwork only — never visited in person.
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VAWA Self-Petition
Self-petition path to a green card for abuse victims of U.S. citizen or LPR family members.
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Visa Bulletin
Monthly DOS publication showing which priority dates are eligible to move forward.
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Visa Overstay
Remaining in the U.S. beyond the period authorized by the I-94.
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Visa Retrogression
When a category's priority date moves backward in the Visa Bulletin.
Not legal advice. Definitions are provided for educational use. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.