What is Form I-797 (Notice of Action)?
Form I-797 is the notice USCIS sends about an application or petition. Versions include receipt notices, approval notices, requests for evidence and biometrics appointment notices. An approval notice for a petition can carry an I-94 at the bottom. Keep every I-797, because employers and visa officers ask for it.
Example
After an employer files an H-1B petition, USCIS sends a receipt notice I-797 with a receipt number. You can use the number to check case status online.
Related
See H-1B transfer and request for evidence.
Related terms and guides
Sources
- USCIS Glossary, https://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-31
- USCIS, https://www.uscis.gov, live official page, linked for readers; link checked 2026-10-31
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.