“Case Was Denied”: what it means
USCIS decided against the application. The denial letter explains why and what options exist.
Checked against USCIS guidance on October 17, 2026. The sources are listed at the end of this page.
What this status means
An officer has refused the application or petition. USCIS mails a decision letter that gives the reasons.
The letter also says whether the decision can be appealed. For many decisions the route is Form I-290B, as an appeal or as a motion asking USCIS to reopen or reconsider.
What it means for your form
- I-485 (green card)
- A denied adjustment of status generally cannot be appealed, but you can file a motion to reopen or reconsider with Form I-290B. Because a denial can affect your status, get advice quickly.
What usually happens next
- An appeal or motion on Form I-290B is generally due within 30 calendar days of the decision, or 33 if it was mailed. The clock starts on the date USCIS mailed the decision, not the day you received it, and there is no extension.
- USCIS rejects a late appeal.
3 steps · Checklist
Next steps: Case Was Denied
What to do now, as a checklist you can save and tick off.
Read the decision letter in full
Read the decision letter in full as soon as it arrives. Deadlines are short.
Check the current I-290B filing address
Check the current filing address on the I-290B page before you file. USCIS changed where I-290Bs are filed in October 2026.
Talk to an attorney before deciding
Talk to an immigration attorney or accredited representative before deciding what to do, especially if a denial affects your lawful status.
Free, and yours to edit — tick items off on the web or in the MyCheck app.
Can I appeal a denied I-485?
Generally not: USCIS lists the I-485 among decisions that cannot be appealed. You can file a motion to reopen or reconsider instead, and USCIS says a motion is possible even when an appeal is not.
How long do I have to file an appeal or motion?
30 calendar days from the date of the decision, or 33 if USCIS mailed it, with no extension. The date that counts is the mailing date printed on the decision.
Read more
Sources
General information about how USCIS status messages are used, not legal advice. The notices USCIS mails you are the official record for your case.
