What is typically the next step after a USCIS petition is denied?

When a USCIS petition is denied, the most common next step a petitioner can take is to appeal the decision to the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). This option is applicable in certain immigration cases where the denial is based on legal or factual errors and allows the petitioner to have their case reviewed by a higher authority within the immigration system. The appeal process provides an opportunity to contest the reasons for the denial and can potentially lead to a reversal of the decision.

While filing a new application could be an option, it may not be advisable if the underlying issues that led to the denial are not addressed, as it could result in another denial. Seeking congressional assistance may be an avenue some choose to pursue for help with their case, but it is not a formal process directly related to addressing a denial. Requesting expedited processing is generally not relevant after a denial has occurred since expedited processing applies to applications or petitions that are still pending. Hence, appealing to the BIA stands out as the structured and formal route to contest a USCIS denial.