USCIS announced a new online system for submitting inquiries on problem cases to the Office of the Ombudsman.  The new online system allows the petitioner, applicant, or attorney to submit an inquiry on problem cases including those that are beyond normal processing times.  The online system also allows the inquirer to upload documents to assist DHS in its efforts to identify the problem.

The new online form is identified Form DHS-7001 and can be accessed at the DHS inquiry site here.  USCIS also redesigned the DHS.gov ombudsman webpage adding information and improving navigation.  You can reach the ombudsman web page here.

While ombudsman help was available in the past, DHS's recent announcement confirms that it now requires parties making written case inquiries to use Form DHS-7001.  The ability to inquire online including uploading documents is expected to speed problem case inquiries and also presage USCIS's coming move to allow document uploads for e-filed petitions.