Green Card through Consular Processing
Our law firm offers family-based consular processing services, including marriage-based green cards and green cards for parents and siblings of U.S. citizens. Whether you are applying for a green card as a spouse, child, parent, or sibling, we are here to guide you through the process.
The Process of Applying for a Green Card through Consular Processing
To qualify for an Immigrant Visa, a foreign citizen must be sponsored by an immediate relative who is at least 21 years old and either a U.S. citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder). The application process for a green card through consular processing includes several steps:
First, the sponsoring relative files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and supporting documents with USCIS. Once USCIS approves the petition, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC).
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, including spouses, children under 21, and parents, have access to unlimited immigrant visas and can proceed directly to the next step. However, a limited number of visas are available each year for other family-based categories, such as parents and siblings of U.S. citizens or spouses of lawful Permanent Residents. Applicants in these categories must first submit the I-130 Petition. Once the I-130 is approved, the applicant must wait until their priority date (the I-130 filing date) becomes current under their visa category to continue the process.
Once a visa number becomes available and the applicant receives a Welcome Letter from the NVC, they can pay the Application Processing fee and the Affidavit of Support fee. After these fees are paid, the applicant must submit an online Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application (green card application), and the required supporting documentation.
DS-260: Information and Documents
The DS-260 application includes information about the applicant, family, address, and employment history as well as security questions and questions about the applicant’s U.S. immigration history.
The applicant also needs to collec and submit t the required civil documents, including birth certificates, proof of nationality (such as a copy of your passport), marriage certificates, and a police certificate.
In addition the applicant will submit an I-864 Affidavit of Support, filled out by the petitioner and supported with tax documents and other required financial documents.
The Interview at the U.S. Consulate and Admission to the United States
The last step toward your immigrant visa is an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. A consular officer will interview you (and accompanying family member beneficiaries) and determine whether you can receive an Immigrant Visa.
If your visa is approved, the consulate will return your passport with the visa. After paying the visa fee, you will be able to travel to the U.S. At the port of entry, you will enter as a Lawful Permanent Resident and will be permitted to work and live in the U.S. Your Green Card will be mailed to you.
To learn more on how we can assist you in obtaining your green card through consular processing, contact us today!
Revital Shavit Immigration Law can assist you with the complex application process. Our immigration attorney will outline the process and clarify the different stages. We will communicate clearly and offer personalized advice throughout each stage. Our office provides online immigration services to support your journey, regardless of location.
If you would like to learn more about this topic, please contact our office and get the guidance you need from our consular processing immigration attorney in the USA.