Consular Processing

Step 1: Immigrant Petition

A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsor files an immigrant petition on behalf of the beneficiary with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The petition type depends on the relationship between the sponsor and beneficiary, such as Form I-130 for family-based petitions or Form I-140 for employment-based petitions.

Step 2: National Visa Center (NVC) Processing

If USCIS approves the immigrant petition, it is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing. The NVC assigns a case number and invoice identification number (IVN) and requests the necessary fees and supporting documentation from the petitioner and beneficiary.

Step 3: Affidavit of Support and Financial Documentation

The petitioner submits Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, along with financial documents to demonstrate the ability to financially support the beneficiary upon their arrival in the United States.

Step 4: Visa Application

Once the NVC receives all required documents and fees, they schedule an immigrant visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in the beneficiary’s home country. The beneficiary completes Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, and undergoes a medical examination by an authorized physician.

Step 5: Visa Interview

The beneficiary attends the immigrant visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. A consular officer reviews the application, conducts an interview, and determines eligibility for the immigrant visa. The beneficiary must provide supporting documents, including the petition approval notice, passport, photographs, and civil documents.

Step 6: Visa Issuance

If approved, the beneficiary receives the immigrant visa in their passport. They must enter the United States within the validity period of the visa, typically within six months of issuance.

Step 7: Entry into the United States

Upon arrival in the United States, the beneficiary presents the immigrant visa to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry. They are admitted into the country as a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

Our Services

Practice Areas

Green Cards

The Green Card process refers to the process of obtaining lawful permanent residence in the United States.

Naturalization/Citizenship

Have you been a permanent resident for 5 years? Or a permanent resident married to a U.S. citizen for 3 years?

K-1 Fiancé Visas

The K-1 visa, is a nonimmigrant visa that allows a foreign national fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of getting married.

Adjustment of Status

Before applying for Adjustment of Status (AOS), ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.