Processing times vary based on the visa category, the specific embassy or consulate, and the country of chargeability. After the petition is approved, NVC processing typically takes several months. Embassy interview wait times vary widely. For current estimates, check the Department of State visa appointment wait times.

Required documents generally include: Form DS-260 (completed online), civil documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees if applicable), police clearance certificates from every country where the beneficiary lived for 12 months or more after age 16, Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) with financial evidence, passport-style photographs, and medical examination results from a designated panel physician. Specific requirements may vary by embassy.

The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) is a legally binding contract in which the U.S.-based petitioner (sponsor) agrees to financially support the immigrant at 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. This is required for most family-based immigrant visa applications. If the petitioner’s income is insufficient, a joint sponsor may be used. The obligation generally continues until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, earns 40 qualifying quarters of work, leaves the U.S. permanently, or passes away.

Yes. Common reasons for visa refusal include incomplete documentation, failure to meet the Affidavit of Support requirements, criminal history, health-related inadmissibility, previous immigration violations (such as prior unlawful presence), or concerns about the validity of the underlying relationship. Some grounds of inadmissibility can be overcome with a waiver. An attorney can help you anticipate and address potential issues before the interview.

If the beneficiary was previously unlawfully present in the U.S. for more than 180 days, they may face a 3-year or 10-year bar from re-entering the country when they depart for their consular interview. The 3-year bar applies to unlawful presence of 180 days to 1 year; the 10-year bar applies to unlawful presence of 1 year or more. In some cases, a waiver (Form I-601 or I-601A provisional waiver) may be available. This is a critical issue that must be evaluated before leaving the U.S. for the interview.

Generally, only the beneficiary (visa applicant) is required to attend the consular interview. However, the petitioner may be permitted to attend depending on the embassy’s policies. In marriage-based cases, some consulates encourage or require the petitioner’s presence. Your attorney can advise on what to expect at your specific embassy.

Once your immigrant visa is approved, the embassy issues a sealed visa packet. You must enter the United States before the visa expiration date printed on it (typically within 6 months). At the U.S. port of entry, a CBP officer opens the packet, reviews your documents, and admits you as a lawful permanent resident. Your physical green card is mailed to your U.S. address within several weeks of entry.