The US Immigrant Visa Application requires some specific guidelines you need to follow. In essence, the process of obtaining an immigrant visa to permanently reside in the United States involves several steps. It’s important to note that the exact process can vary depending on many factors, including the type of immigrant visa you’re applying for (e.g., family-based, employment-based, diversity visa, etc.), your country of residence, and other specific circumstances.
In this post, we’ve outlined an in-depth steps you need to follow while making your US Immigrant Visa Application Online
Steps for the US Immigrant Visa Application Online in 2023
As an immigrant seeking to relocate and work permanently in the US, there are a few things you need to do avoid your visa application from been denied , ( we talked about reasons why your US Immigrant Visa can be denied here ). Below, we highlight some of the processes to follow for a successful visa application.
1. Determine your eligibility for a U.S. immigrant visa. There are various categories of immigrant visas, including family-based visas, employment-based visas, special immigrant visas, and diversity visas. You need to figure out under which category you may qualify and check the requirements.
2. Petition Filing. In most cases, an immigrant visa application begins with the filing of a petition on your behalf by a U.S. sponsor. The type of petition filed will depend on the visa category.
- Family-Based: Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is typically filed by the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative.
- Employment-Based: The process typically begins with the potential employer filing a labor certification request (Form ETA-750) with the Department of Labor. After the labor certification is granted, the employer can file Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.
This petition is submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
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3. Petition Approval. Once USCIS approves the petition, it is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will notify you when the visa petition is received and again when an immigrant visa number is about to become available.
4. Apply for an Immigrant Visa. Once the visa number is available, you can apply for an immigrant visa. This typically involves filling out Form DS-260, Online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application.
5. Pay Fees. The USCIS Immigrant Fee is required to process your case and issue a green card. You will also need to pay the visa application fee.
6. Attend a Medical Examination and Visa Interview. Before your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, you’ll need to get a medical exam by a physician approved by the U.S. embassy or consulate. You will then attend the visa interview. The specific procedures vary by location.
7. Visa Decision. If your visa is approved, you will receive a visa in your passport. If denied, the consular officer will provide a reason for the denial.
8. Travel to the United States. Once your visa is issued, you can travel to the U.S. Upon entry, you become a lawful permanent resident, also known as a green card holder.
This is a high-level overview of the process and each step can have many sub-steps and specific requirements. Make sure to consult with an immigration expert or attorney, and always refer to the latest guidance on the official websites of USCIS and the Department of State. The process and requirements can change, and it’s essential to use the most up-to-date information.
While the US might be the country uppermost in your mind, we also have some resources to aid your relocation to other Tier 1 countries such as Canada. With out guide on HOW TO GET A JOB IN CANADA AS AN IMMIGRANT, Canada might as well be your next destination.
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