Start with the case record, not the empty mailbox
Check USCIS Case Status Online and the documents tab in the applicant's USCIS online account, if available. Record the exact update, mailing date, address on file and any U.S. Postal Service tracking number. Save screenshots with the date because later status changes can hide the earlier message.
A package delivered to a lockbox with no receipt is different from a notice USCIS says it issued, and a mailed approval notice is different from the physical card produced after approval. The e-Request hub separates these problems because each item follows a different inquiry path.
Use the non-delivery-of-notice route for notices
The notice inquiry covers items such as a receipt notice, Request for Evidence, biometrics appointment, interview notice or decision notice. USCIS says a receipt notice should generally arrive within 30 days after filing at a service center or lockbox, but its current non-delivery page also says not to submit an inquiry on a recently filed case until at least 60 days have passed.
If an online account shows an RFE, interview or other deadline-bearing notice that never arrived, do not wait passively for ordinary mail. Download any available copy, preserve the status page and contact USCIS promptly. A missing envelope does not necessarily stop the response or appearance deadline printed on the notice.
Use the card route for a Green Card or EAD
The non-delivery-of-card inquiry is for a USCIS-produced card such as a Permanent Resident Card or Employment Authorization Document that was mailed but not received. USCIS instructs applicants to use the Postal Service tracking number shown through Case Status Online when one is available.
For a card connected to a recently approved application, the current e-Request page says not to submit the inquiry until at least 90 days after receiving the approval notice. That waiting instruction is specific to this tool; it does not authorize employment without valid proof or extend an expiring card.
Use the document route for certificates and travel documents
USCIS has a separate non-delivery-of-document request for mailed items such as citizenship certificates and certain travel documents. Its current page says to allow approximately 30 days after Case Status Online reports the document was mailed before creating an inquiry.
A document that was never delivered is not automatically the same as one delivered and later lost, stolen or damaged. Replacement forms, fees and evidence can differ. Read the official instructions for the actual item before filing a replacement application.
A change of address is a separate duty
Submitting a non-delivery request does not replace the obligation to update the address with USCIS. USCIS says most noncitizens must report a change of address within 10 days, and a Postal Service forwarding order does not update the immigration record. Each pending case should be checked after the address update.
A person in immigration court may also have a separate EOIR address obligation. Updating USCIS does not automatically update the immigration court, and updating the Postal Service does not complete either agency's process.
Prepare the inquiry before opening the form
This guide was reviewed on September 28, 2026. It explains USCIS self-service routes but does not extend a deadline, replace a document or determine lawful status. Obtain qualified legal help when the missing item affects work, travel, a hearing, an RFE response or another urgent deadline.
- Receipt number and A-Number, when applicable.
- Form type, filing date, approval date and the exact missing item.
- Address used on the filing and proof of any later address update.
- Case-status screenshots, tracking history and delivery correspondence.
- A secure email address and a copy of the submitted service request.