USCIS Boston Field Office - Boston, MA

Immigration Services Overview

Naturalization and Adjustment

The USCIS Boston Field Office, located within the John F. Kennedy Federal Building at 15 Sudbury Street, is the primary hub for immigration services in the Greater Boston area. A component of the Department of Homeland Security, this office handles the adjudication of applications for lawful permanent residence (Green Cards), naturalization (Citizenship), and other immigration benefits. The Field Office is distinct from the Asylum Office and the Application Support Centers (where biometrics are taken); its main function is to conduct interviews for applicants seeking to adjust their status or become U.S. citizens. Officers here review files, verify eligibility, test applicants on their knowledge of U.S. history and civics (for naturalization), and make final determinations on cases. The office also hosts naturalization ceremonies where approved applicants take the Oath of Allegiance 🇺🇸.

Strict Security and Visiting Rules

Visiting the JFK Federal Building requires adherence to strict security protocols. Appointments are mandatory; walk-ins are not accepted for interviews or information services. Visitors must present their appointment notice and a valid government-issued photo ID to enter. The security screening is similar to an airport, involving metal detectors and X-ray machines for bags. Prohibited items include all weapons, pepper spray, and sharp objects (like scissors or pocket knives). While cell phones are generally permitted, their use is heavily restricted. Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited inside the office, except during naturalization ceremonies. Phones should be silenced or turned off in waiting areas and interview rooms. Visitors are advised to arrive no more than 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment to avoid overcrowding.

• Green Card Interviews: Adjudicating Form I-485 for family and employment-based applicants.
• Naturalization: Conducting civics tests and interviews for Form N-400 applicants.
• Citizenship Ceremonies: Administering the Oath of Allegiance to new citizens.
• InfoMod Appointments: Handling emergency travel documents and complex case inquiries (by appointment only).
• Immigration Information: Providing resources for lawful immigration processes.

Location and Transportation

The USCIS office is located in the low-rise section of the JFK Federal Building in Government Center. The public entrance is typically on the Sudbury Street side. Public transportation is the most reliable way to reach the office. It is located directly across from the Government Center station (Blue and Green Lines) and the Haymarket bus and subway station (Orange and Green Lines). The Bowdoin station on the Blue Line is also immediately adjacent. Parking is extremely difficult in this area; there is no public parking at the federal building itself. Visitors driving to the city must use commercial garages such as the Government Center Garage, which can be very expensive. Given the stress of an immigration interview, using the MBTA is highly recommended to ensure a timely arrival.

Online Tools

USCIS encourages the use of its online tools to minimize the need for in-person visits. Applicants can check their case status, change their address, and check processing times via the USCIS website. The "myUSCIS" online account portal allows for the electronic filing of many forms and secure messaging with the agency. For urgent matters that cannot be resolved online, applicants must call the USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283) to request an in-person appointment at the Field Office.