Alan Lee, Esq. Q&As published on the World Journal Weekly on July 6, 2025:1. Security checks can vary in duration

1. Security checks can vary in duration

A reader asks:
I applied for immigration as an outstanding talent and applied for premium processing. Now, the application has been over 45 working days, and there is still no news. The lawyer sent an email to USCIS, and the reply said it was a security check issue. How long does this security check usually take?

Alan Lee Esq. answers:
Security checks can vary in duration. While most are resolved within weeks to a few months, there’s no fixed limit. Some can unfortunately take several months or longer, especially for individuals with foreign degrees, international work experience, or if their name matches someone on a government watchlist. Your lawyer may continue to track your case with the premium processing unit of the service center holding your case.