What Is Consular Processing?

Consular processing is the method used by individuals outside the United States to apply for an immigrant visa (green card). After USCIS approves a petition (like Form I-130), the case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC) and then to a U.S. consulate or embassy in the applicant’s home country.

Who Uses Consular Processing?

  • Most relatives of U.S. citizens or green card holders applying from abroad
  • Employment-based immigrants outside the U.S.
  • Diversity visa (lottery) winners

Step-by-Step Process

  1. USCIS Approves the Immigrant Petition
    • Usually Form I-130 (family) or I-140 (employment)
  2. Case Sent to National Visa Center (NVC)
    • NVC assigns a case number
    • You pay required fees and submit documents online via the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC)
  3. Submit Required Documents
    • Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) from the sponsor
    • Civil documents (birth certificate, police records, passport scans, etc.)
  4. Schedule a Visa Interview
    • Once the case is “documentarily complete,” the embassy will schedule an interview
  5. Attend the Interview
    • Bring originals of all documents
    • You may be asked detailed questions about your background, finances, or relationship with the sponsor
  6. Medical Exam
    • Required before the interview at a doctor authorized by the U.S. embassy
  7. Receive a Decision
    • If approved, you’ll receive a visa and instructions to enter the U.S.
    • You’ll receive your green card by mail after arrival

Timeline

The timeline varies based on:

  • Visa category
  • Country of origin
  • Embassy processing speed

You can check case status at ceac.state.gov

Resources

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