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“Case Approval Was Certified By USCIS”on your I-600A · Adoption pre-approval (non-Hague)

For an I-600A, this may mean USCIS confirmed your approval to the State Department so the U.S.
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WHICH STEP ARE YOU ON?
Receipt notice
Biometrics
Home study review
Decision · here
Approval notice mailed

What to do, in 3 steps

Keep your approval notice safe.
Follow instructions from the next agency, such as the National Visa Center.
Keep checking your status for updates.
13months
9 to 13 monthsTypical time for a complete I-600A. USCIS published times. Typical ranges, never an exact date.
In this statusThis is usually a short step; the next stage's timing depends on your form.

What it means for your I-600A

For an I-600A, this may mean USCIS confirmed your approval to the State Department so the U.S. consulate in the child's country can rely on it. It does not change your approval. Keep your agency informed.

In general, on any form:

USCIS certified that your case approval is valid. This often happens when another agency, like the Department of State, needs official confirmation of the approval. It is a positive administrative step. Your case moves on to the next stage for your form.

Avoid these mistakes

Thinking this is a new, separate approval.
Not following up with the next agency.

Quick questions

What does "Case Approval Was Certified By USCIS" mean on an I-600A?

For an I-600A, this may mean USCIS confirmed your approval to the State Department so the U.S. consulate in the child's country can rely on it. It does not change your approval. Keep your agency informed.

What does it mean that my approval was certified?

USCIS officially confirmed the approval, often for another agency.

Do I need to do anything?

Usually not with USCIS. Follow any instructions from the next agency.

Is this the same as 'Case Was Approved'?

It is related. It confirms an approval that already happened.

How long does an I-600A take?

The typical range published by USCIS is 9 to 13 months. It depends on the office and your case; it is not an exact date.

Other statuses of your I-600A

Every status of an I-600A →

This same status on other forms

AI-assisted explanation based on the official USCIS status, reviewed by CaseAlerta. Not legal advice. Times are typical ranges, never an exact date.