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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

The journey toward obtaining an immigrant visa in the United States involves various legal procedures and intricacies. Among them, consular processing stands as a vital pathway for those seeking to live permanently in the U.S. In this article, we will delve into the definition and overview of immigrant visa consular processing, detail the steps involved, and explore the waiting times and associated costs.

Consular Processing for Immigrant Visas


Consular processing is a procedure that enables individuals outside the U.S. to apply for an immigrant visa through a U.S. consulate in their home country. It’s a primary avenue to navigate the immigrant visa process, especially for those who don’t reside in the U.S.

Managed by the U.S. Department of State, consular processing involves collaboration with various immigration agencies. It serves as an alternative to the adjustment of status process that applies to applicants already in the U.S. Understanding how to get an immigrant visa through consular processing is essential, and seeking guidance from Naperville immigration attorneys can make this complex procedure more manageable.

Categories of Immigrant Visas

Immigrant visas are broadly divided into different categories:

  • Family-Sponsored: These visas are available to immediate relatives of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. They include categories like spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old.
  • Employment-Based: These visas are for individuals who possess certain job skills and are seeking employment in the United States. They’re further divided into sub-categories based on the applicant’s qualifications, education, and work experience.
  • Special Categories: These include visas for Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ) and individuals from Iraq and Afghanistan who have assisted the U.S. government.
  • Humanitarian Programs: Humanitarian programs encompass Refugee Admissions, Asylum, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED).

Whether for family, employment, special circumstances, or humanitarian reasons, the immigrant visa pathways lay the foundation for a new beginning and life in the United States.

Consular Immigrant Visa Process

The path to permanent residency in the United States requires an understanding of the immigrant visa process.

  • Petition Filing: The process usually begins with a U.S. sponsor filing a petition on behalf of the foreign national with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Petition Approval: Once the petition is approved, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC), where the applicant is given instructions on the next steps.
  • Application Submission: The applicant completes the required forms and submits the necessary documents. This may include proof of relationship to the U.S. sponsor, medical examination results, police clearances, and more.
  • Interview: The applicant must attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. The consular officer will review the application and supporting documents to determine eligibility.
  • Visa Issuance: If approved, the visa is placed in the applicant’s passport, allowing them to travel to the United States.
  • Adjustment of Status: Upon arrival in the United States, the individual must apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident, leading to the issuance of a Green Card.

From filing the initial petition to receiving a visa, each step is vital and requires careful attention to detail. The process underscores the balance between the U.S.’s need to verify applicants and the desire to welcome those who meet the qualifications.

Costs and Waiting Times

The waiting times for consular processing vary based on factors like the type of visa and the consulate’s workload. Generally, the process may take several months or even years. The associated costs include filing fees, medical examination costs, and potential translation services. Hiring an immigration attorney in Naperville may add to the cost but can significantly ease the process.

Contact a Naperville Immigration Attorney to Learn More

Consular processing is an essential part of the immigrant visa process, comprising multiple steps and associated costs. Understanding how to get an immigrant visa through consular processing is crucial, and Naperville immigration attorneys, like Kasturi Law, LLC, can be indispensable in navigating these legal waters. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us assist you on your path to living in the United States.

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