USCIS to launch new Web site in September

U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services will have a better Web site in September, announced Aneesh Chopra, the nation’s first chief technology officer, at a press conference in Silicon Valley Aug. 4.

The revised USCIS.gov Web site, expected to launch Sept. 22, will allow applicants to check the status of their U.S. visa and Green Card applications.

Currently, applicants go online and check the status of their application if they have a receipt number. However, not much more information is available, other than an estimate of how long a particular application will take to go through the system. The new site is expected to keep applicants up-to-date regarding their case status. Apart from checking online, applicants can opt to receive updates by text message or e-mail.

According to USCIS, the improved design follows four core principles:

• A customer-centric homepage that provides applicants with a “one-stop shop” of immigration services information.
• Simplified navigation and improved search capability.
• Enhanced customer service tools including expanded Case Status Online with both e-mail and text functionality.
• Information that is written clearly and meets the needs of customers.

To see a mock-up of the new Web site, click here.