In some cases, an individual may need to go to the local USCIS office to file an application or petition, submit an inquiry on a pending EAD card application when the USCIS Service Centers do not adjudicate the application within 90 days, obtain an Advance Parole document in emergencies, or when finally granted a green card to get a temporary stamp in his/her passport until the laminated green card is sent to him/her in the mail.
The USCIS has an appointment system called InfoPass. All local offices are closed to the public (except for a scheduled permanent resident or naturalization interview appointments) and only those with an InfoPass appointment are allowed to enter. This means that where immediate assistance is needed, it will not generally be available without an appointment. Appointments are available on-line at http://infopass.uscis.gov/. The individual logs in, identifies the local office by using their zip code, and then can review the available appointments. However, some local offices are only releasing appointments in two week blocks. Once they are used up, the individual will have to wait for a new block of appointments to open. This will also require constant monitoring of the InfoPass site to see if any appointments are available and when. Once an appointment is made, the individual prints off the appointment notice to take with him/her to the local office.
Additionally, it is important to note that local USCIS offices do not have jurisdiction over employment-based matters pending at USCIS Service Centers. The USCIS Service Centers have their own inquiry procedures and this office routinely makes inquiries for cases that are pending beyond normal processing times.