Consular Processing Immigrant Visa

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

1. What is Consular Processing of immigrant visa?

Consular Processing is the process by which you may apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate overseas when you are outside the U.S.

2. When does the Consular Processing for an immigrant visa begin?

The Consular Processing for an immigrant visa begins when your underlying immigrant visa petition is approved and an immigrant visa number is available to you.

OR
Check My Eligibility

3. Who may apply for Consular Processing of immigrant visa?

Consular Processing of immigrant visa is suitable for:

  1. Spouse, parent, son, daughter, brother or sister of a U.S. citizen with an approved family-based immigrant visa petition
  2. Spouse, unmarried son or daughter of any age of a lawful permanent resident with an approved family-based immigrant visa petition
  3. Foreign nationals with an approved immigrant visa petition filed on their behalf by a U.S. employer
  4. Winners of the Diversity Visa Lottery

4. Where can I apply for Consular Processing of my immigrant visa?

You must apply for Consular Processing of your immigrant visa in your foreign country of residence or country of birth.

5. Can I simultaneously apply for Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing of immigrant visa?

No, you may not apply for both Consular Processing and Adjustment of Status at the same time