Theconsular processis the procedure by which a beneficiary of a family or employment petition obtains theirimmigrant visato enter the United States as apermanent resident. This process applies when the applicant lives outside the U.S. and must complete their case at a U.S. consulate.
✨ Main Stages of the Consular Process
Approval of the petition by USCIS(example: I-130).
Transfer of the case to the National Visa Center (NVC):fees are paid and required documentation is sent.
Document review:the NVC confirms that everything is complete.
Appointment at the embassy or consulate:interview with a consular officer.
Final decision and issuance of immigrant visa.
📑 Common Documents
Valid passport
Birth and/or marriage certificate
Criminal background from the country of residence
Evidence of the family relationship (for I-130 petitions)
Affidavit of Support (I-864, Affidavit of Support)
⏳ Estimated Time
The time depends on the visa category and the assigned consulate. It can vary betweenseveral months and over a year.
📝 Important:
AtGolden Seal Notarywe act asform preparers and facilitators of procedures.. We do not represent USCIS or the Department of State. The final decision on visa approval always rests with the consular authorities.