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Immigration Law

Consular Processing

Getting your green card from abroad through U.S. embassy and consulate procedures.

What Is Consular Processing?

Consular processing is the method by which someone seeking to immigrate to the United States obtains their immigrant visa from outside the U.S. This process takes place at a U.S. embassy or consulate in the applicant's home country (or another country where they are residing).

Once the immigrant visa is issued, the beneficiary can enter the United States and receive their permanent resident status (green card).

Consular Processing vs. Adjustment of Status

There are two paths to obtaining a green card: consular processing and adjustment of status. It's important to understand the difference:

Consular Processing:

  • Immigrant completes the process OUTSIDE the U.S.
  • Beneficiary applies at a U.S. embassy or consulate
  • Receives an immigrant visa
  • Enters the U.S. and receives green card at port of entry

Adjustment of Status:

  • Immigrant already INSIDE the U.S.
  • Beneficiary applies to USCIS from within the U.S.
  • Receives green card without leaving the country
  • No need to visit an embassy or consulate

Consular Processing Visa Categories

IR1/IR2: Immediate Relative Visas (Citizen Sponsors)

For spouses and children of U.S. citizens

CR1/CR2: Conditional Resident Visas

For spouses married less than 2 years

F21/F22: Family Preference Visas (LPR Sponsors)

For spouses and children of permanent residents

Steps in Consular Processing

  1. Immigrant petition (I-130) is filed and approved by USCIS
  2. Case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC)
  3. Beneficiary completes forms and provides financial documents
  4. Interview appointment notice is sent
  5. Beneficiary schedules medical examination
  6. Beneficiary attends interview at U.S. embassy/consulate
  7. Visa is approved or additional documentation is requested
  8. Immigrant visa is issued
  9. Beneficiary enters the U.S. with immigrant visa
  10. Green card is issued at port of entry

Why Choose Attorney Anyere

  • Experience with consular processing cases
  • Knowledge of National Visa Center procedures
  • Preparation for embassy/consulate interviews
  • Guidance on document preparation and submission

Other Immigration Services

Asylum & Deportation DefenseCitizenship & NaturalizationFamily-Based ImmigrationImmigration AppealsImmigration FAQ

Let Us Guide You Through Consular Processing

From start to finish, we'll help you navigate the consular processing steps and prepare for your embassy interview.

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