Consular Processing Process

Consular Processing Process

When a person currently living in another country wishes to seek permanent residency to live or work in the U.S., they must apply through a process known as consular processing. Each application is unique, but it can be helpful to understand the common steps involved in most cases.

1. Schedule a Consultation with Zaveri Law P.C.: Immigration law is complicated and changes often. An experienced immigration lawyer will help you avoid application mistakes that could result in delays. It is important that you reach out to an attorney before you begin the application process.
2. Create an Effective Strategy: To receive a green card through consular processing, you are usually required to be sponsored by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Your sponsor can be a spouse, close relative, or employer. Zaveri Law can coordinate with this person in order to submit your application.
3. Determine Proper Application Type: The most common type of petition is family-based. Other categories include employment-based, humanitarian programs, and more. An immigration attorney can help you determine the proper application for your case.
4. Collect Documentation: Delays and challenges during the application process are common, but submitting an accurate and complete application can help avoid delays. It is much easier to gather and submit the proper documents with the help of an experienced lawyer.
5. Apply for Immigrant Petition: Your immigrant petition will be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services by your sponsor. You will then wait for a decision. Additional documents may be required during this step.
6. Submit Fees and Documents to the National Visa Center (NVC): If your immigrant petition is approved, you will be issued a visa number if needed. The NVC will contact the petitioner (your sponsor) to inform them when and how to submit any supporting documents and processing fees.
7. Attend Your Interview: The consular office will schedule your interview. At this time, original documents and your completed application will be presented. It is important to notify the NVC if any of your personal information, such as your address or marital status, has changed.
8. Visa Granted: Once your visa is granted, you will be provided with information known as a Visa Packet. It is important that you do not open the packet. Before departing your home country, you will be required to pay an immigrant visa fee.
9. Travel to the United States: Upon your arrival in the U.S., you will give your Visa Packet to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. An officer will inspect your documents, and you will be admitted as a lawful permanent resident.
10. Receive Green Card: Within 45 days of your arrival, you should receive your green card at your U.S. address. You will need to pay your immigrant fee in order for your green card to be sent to you.

Zaveri Law P.C. Can Help You Realize Your Dream

It is common to be intimidated by the immigration process, but don’t let that stop you from achieving your dream of U.S. residency. Zaveri Law is here to help you. We are committed to assisting immigrants in beginning their lives in America. If you are ready to start the process, contact us today.