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“Case Approval Was Certified By USCIS”on your I-800 · Hague adoption petition for a child

USCIS certified the approval of your I-800.
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WHICH STEP ARE YOU ON?
Receipt notice
Review by an officer
Request for evidence (if needed)
Decision · here
Case sent to the National Visa Center or consulate (if abroad)

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.
7months
4 to 7 monthsTypical time for a complete I-800. 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-800

USCIS certified the approval of your I-800. This works like an approval. In Hague adoptions, the final approval usually happens at the consulate after the adoption or custody is completed in the child's country. Keep the notice handy.

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-800?

USCIS certified the approval of your I-800. This works like an approval. In Hague adoptions, the final approval usually happens at the consulate after the adoption or custody is completed in the child's country. Keep the notice handy.

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-800 take?

The typical range published by USCIS is 4 to 7 months. It depends on the office and your case; it is not an exact date.

Other statuses of your I-800

Every status of an I-800 →

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.