What Is Consular Processing?
Consular processing is the method used to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa from outside the United States through a U.S. embassy or consulate. Instead of applying for a green card inside the U.S. (called adjustment of status), the applicant completes the process in their home country or a foreign country where they legally reside.
Here’s how it works at a high level:
- A U.S. sponsor files an immigration petition with USCIS
- After approval, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC)
- The applicant submits forms and documents to the NVC
- The applicant attends a visa interview at a U.S. consulate
- If approved, the applicant enters the U.S. as a permanent resident
Consular processing is managed by three agencies:
- USCIS – approves the petition
- National Visa Center (NVC) – collects fees and documents
- U.S. Embassy or Consulate – conducts the final interview
Who Must Use Consular Processing?
You usually must use consular processing if:
- You live outside the United States
- You are not eligible to adjust status in the U.S.
- You entered the U.S. without inspection or overstayed a visa
- You are applying for a family-based or employment-based immigrant visa from abroad
- You won the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery
Some people inside the U.S. also end up using consular processing if:
- They violated their visa status
- They worked without authorization
- They missed deadlines for adjustment of status
Consular Processing vs Adjustment of Status
Both processes lead to a green card, but they work very differently.
| Feature | Consular Processing | Adjustment of Status |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Outside the U.S. | Inside the U.S. |
| Main Form | DS-260 | I-485 |
| Work Authorization While Pending | No | Yes |
| Travel While Pending | No | Yes (with Advance Parole) |
| Interview Location | U.S. Embassy/Consulate | USCIS Office |
| Risk of Being Stuck | Higher | Lower |
| Processing Speed | Often faster | Often slower |
Which is better?
- If you live outside the U.S., consular processing is your only option.
- If you live inside the U.S. lawfully, adjustment of status is usually safer and more flexible.
- If you have immigration violations, consular processing may increase risk.
Discover the key differences between consular processing and adjustment of status in our comprehensive guide.
Types of Visas Processed Through Consular Processing
Consular processing is used for:
- Family-Based Immigrant Visas
- Spouses of U.S. citizens
- Parents
- Children
- Siblings (with long wait times)
- Employment-Based Immigrant Visas
- EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, and others
- Diversity Visa (Green Card Lottery)
- K-1 Fiancé(e) Visas (nonimmigrant first, then green card)
Full Step-by-Step Consular Processing Timeline
This is the most important section. Below is the complete journey from petition filing to green card.
Step 1: USCIS Petition Approval (I-130 or I-140)
The process begins when a sponsor files:
- Form I-130 for family-based cases
- Form I-140 for employment-based cases
Once USCIS approves the petition, it assigns a priority date. This date determines when you can move forward based on visa availability.
Step 2: Case Transfer to the National Visa Center (NVC)
After USCIS approval, your case is sent to the National Visa Center. The NVC:
- Creates your case number
- Sends a welcome notice
- Assigns you to the correct U.S. embassy or consulate
Step 3: Pay Required NVC Fees
You must pay:
- Affidavit of Support Fee
- Immigrant Visa Application Fee
Payment is completed online through the NVC portal.
Step 4: File Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application)
Form DS-260 is your official visa application. It asks for:
Mistakes here can cause serious delays or denials.
Step 5: Upload Civil & Financial Documents
These usually include:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Police clearance certificates
- Court records (if applicable)
- Financial sponsor documents
- Tax returns and income proof
All non-English documents must be translated.
Step 6: NVC Review & “Documentarily Qualified” (DQ) Status
Once you submit everything, the NVC reviews your file. If everything is complete, you receive Documentarily Qualified (DQ) status.
This means your case is ready for interview scheduling.
Step 7: Interview Scheduling at U.S. Embassy/Consulate
Once a visa number is available and the embassy has capacity, your case is scheduled for an interview. You will receive:
- Interview appointment letter
- Medical exam instructions
Step 8: Complete the Medical Examination
You must visit a US-approved panel physician. The doctor will:
- Conduct physical exams
- Review vaccination history
- Test for communicable diseases
The results are sent directly to the embassy or given to you in a sealed envelope.
Step 9: Attend the Visa Interview
At the interview, a consular officer will:
- Review your documents
- Ask questions about your relationship, job, or background
- Confirm eligibility
- Make a decision
Step 10: Visa Approval, Denial, or Administrative Processing
Possible outcomes:
- Approved – your visa is printed
- 221(g) Administrative Processing – extra security checks
- Refused/Denied – permanent or temporary refusal
Step 11: Enter the U.S. & Receive Green Card
After approval:
- You receive your visa in your passport
- Pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee
- Enter the U.S.
- Your green card arrives by mail in a few weeks
