The US prioritizes immigrant visas based on categories. The highest priority is given to immigrants who already have family in the US who are either US citizens or permanent residents. The next highest priority is given to immigrants who already have employment in the US. You can apply for a visa in other categories, such as an asylum visa. These visas are extremely limited. The number of available visas may be further limited depending on your current country. The wait list for a visa in these categories can sometimes be years long.
If you are being sponsored by a family member, they must be a US citizen over 18 years of age. If the person sponsoring you has never sponsored an immigrant before, the two of you may need to take some time to read through the process and understand what’s involved. An attorney who specializes in immigration law can help walk you through it. There are also nonprofit organizations that help immigrants.
If you are being sponsored by a family member, they will file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. If you are being sponsored by a prospective employer, they will file Form I-140, Petition for Alien Worker.
The NVC notification includes instructions on the next steps to apply for an immigration visa. Read these instructions carefully and get assistance from an immigration lawyer or nonprofit agency if you don’t understand them. Not following the instructions could delay the processing of your application, or result in your application being rejected. At this time, you can choose an agent to receive NVC communications on your behalf. This may be necessary if you move frequently, or do not have a stable permanent address. You can also serve as your own agent.
It’s a good idea to go through your application and documentation with an immigration lawyer before you submit it. You must pay fees of more than US$1,000. If your application is denied you won’t get any of that money back, and you’ll have to start the process all over again. In some countries, you’ll use the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) to submit your application, fees, and documents, rather than mailing them. This process is more secure and saves time.
The doctor must complete Form I-693, which they will seal in an envelope. Do not take the form out of the envelope. You must deliver it to the consular office in a sealed envelope on the day of your interview. This medical examination is valid 6 months.
During the interview, the officer will review your supporting documents and ask you questions about your application. If you are applying with a family member, typically they must attend the interview with you. You will find out at the end of the interview if your visa has been approved. If the consular officer needs additional documents or information before they can approve your visa, they’ll let you know. Get those documents to them as soon as possible. The consular officer may deny your visa application. There usually is no appeal from a denial. You may be able to get your application reconsidered by another officer. This may require an additional interview.
You will also receive a sealed packet of documents to present to US customs officials at the port of entry. Do not open this sealed packet.
For example, if you came to the US on a student visa and were later hired as a professor by your university, you could apply for an employment-based Green Card with the university as a sponsor. Green Cards are also issued to people here on a non-immigrant visa who fall in love with someone while in the US and decide to get married. All available categories are listed on the USCIS website. It’s also a good idea to talk to an immigration attorney before you begin the application process. They can give you some advice and help you navigate the process.
You can download a copy of the application, and instructions for filling it out, at https://www. uscis. gov/i-485.
If you married a US citizen and are seeking an adjustment of status on that basis, you would need to provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate. If you’re seeking an adjustment of status because you have a full-time job in the US, you would need documents proving your employment. Typically this includes a letter from your manager or supervisor verifying your employment. Regardless of the category of your application, you’ll need financial documents, including copies of your most recent tax return.
The address where you send your application and supporting documents depends on your eligibility category. Find the appropriate address at https://www. uscis. gov/i-485-addresses.
During this appointment, you will be fingerprinted and photographed. You will also be asked to sign an acknowledgment certifying that all the information on your application is complete and correct to the best of your knowledge.
During the interview, a USCIS agent will ask you questions about your application and your reasons for applying for permanent residency. Answer their questions completely and honestly. If you don’t understand something or don’t know the answer, let them know so they can clarify or give you time to find an accurate answer. If you’re applying for permanent residency because you married a US citizen, your spouse typically must attend the interview as well. The USCIS agent may interview each of you separately.
If your application was denied, the notice will tell you the reasons for denial and whether you can appeal the decision. Most reasons for denial do not allow for an appeal. However, you may be able to file a motion for reconsideration (to have your application reconsidered by a different USCIS agent), or a motion to reopen your case (if you want to submit additional supporting documents or information).
Your residency must also be continuous, or the time starts over. While it’s okay to take brief trips out of the country, at least 30 months of continuous residency in the US is typically required. While you’re a permanent resident, take care to follow all applicable laws and local ordinances. Any infractions could make it more difficult for you to become a citizen.
As a Green Card holder, you are entitled to live in the US permanently. However, if you become a naturalized citizen, you have the right to vote and receive benefits, such as Social Security, from the federal government. Fill out the application completely and accurately. Be honest in your answers, even if you think the truth might hurt your chances of becoming a citizen. Before you begin the application process, the USCIS recommends you read the Guide to Naturalization. You can download the guide at https://www. uscis. gov/sites/default/files/files/article/M-476. pdf.
The Guide to Naturalization provides the addresses for the lockbox facilities. Generally, the address you use depends on where in the US or its territories you currently live.
While you are taking your interview, you are considered to be under oath. If the USCIS agent catches you lying about anything, they will terminate your interview immediately and reject your application.
There are 100 possible civics questions you may be asked. You can download a copy of these questions from the USCIS website if you want to study. You can also take a preparation course or use a study guide. These resources are available for free at most public libraries. Universities and nonprofit organizations near you may also offer resources free of charge to help you prepare for the test.
The naturalization ceremony is a significant occasion for most new citizens. However, if for some reason you are unable to attend, you have other options for taking the Oath. You can even take the Oath at the end of your test if you choose.
