Consular processing is the process by which individuals apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. This process is typically used by individuals who are not eligible for adjustment of status in the United States or who prefer to pursue their case outside of the United States.
The process involves several steps, including:
1. Filing an immigrant visa petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), typically by a sponsoring family member or employer.
2. Once the petition is approved, the case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC), which will provide instructions for submitting the required forms and documents, as well as paying any necessary fees.
3. The applicant will then attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. During the interview, a consular officer will review the applicant's documentation, ask questions about their background and immigration history, and make a determination on the visa application.
If the consular officer approves the visa application, the applicant will be issued an immigrant visa, which allows them to travel to the United States and become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) upon entry. However, it's important to note that not all visa applications are approved, and individuals may be denied a visa for a variety of reasons.