I'm a little concerned about the phone message I get when I call the INS's TSC number (214) 381 1423. My NOA receipt date is February 8, 2001 and when I ring up the recording tells me that "my case cannot be found at this time" ... why does everyone else get messages telling them about the processing times for their type of case and mine says that?? I'm a little concerned about this ... any advice would be greatful ... while I'm on the topic ... something needs to be done to speed up processing times of I129F Forms at the TSC!! The other 3 service center's that process these are all up-to-date so why is TSC so far behind?? It's very frustrating.

Dear Anonymous:

We agree with you that processing times at the TSC are far behind on I-129F petitions. All of the service centers have certain types of cases that are backed up more than other service centers. In fact, something has to be done immediately to resolve the backlogs in all types of petitions and applications at ALL the service centers.

As for your particular question, this is a problem that arises quite frequently. For some reason, some of the cases are not imput into the system, and the recording will say that a case cannot be found. The fact that you have a receipt indicates that your petition was received and will be processed.

Unfortunately, the only way that you can find out the current status of your case is to speak with an immigration information officer. This is a chore in itself since it is almost impossible to get through on the telephone lines. All we can do is suggest that you keep trying. Good luck.

Thank you for your response. Well I'm relieved to hear that this does happen a lot and guess we'll just have to wait for it to be processed. And god I hope it will be processed soon!! The only way my fiance and I have found to get through to the INS number is for me to ring from Australia during the day when the U.S is sleeping ... if we try during U.S daytime it is impossible!! So I guess we'll just wait ... these cases that for whatever reason don't get imput into the system do get processed don't they?? Have you heard of any that haven't?? I'm sorry I'm just very concerned and miss my fiance like crazy.

Dear Anonymous:

The vast majority of cases eventually get into the system and are processed. While there is always an exception to the rule, the fact that you have your receipt is a good sign. Best wishes.