
For detailed, step-by-step instructions through the consular processing path, visit the U.S. In other words, it's a final decision.įor a more detailed analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of consular processing versus adjustment of status, read this comparison. However, cases that are denied are generally non-reviewable. This means that the consular officer must have specific, factual evidence for denying an application. Unlike USCIS officers, consular officers cannot refuse to issue a visa based on discretion. What’s more, consular processing has a lower risk of refusal. 4 hours ago Completing The DS-260 Application Form for DV Lottery Winners For those who have won the Green Card DV Lottery, submitting the DS-260 form. Because consular processing generally has a shorter processing time, it's preferred by some applicants over adjustment of status. Due to the wait for a visa to become available, the process will likely take much longer for family-preference immigrants. If applying from abroad, the spouse seeking a green card will need to submit Form DS-260, otherwise known as Online Immigrant Visa Application Form. This time line includes I-130 processing through the consular interview. For an understanding of what happens after filing Form I-130, review the Form I-130 processing time line.Ĭonsular processing takes approximately 6 to 14 months for immediate relatives.

For a more complete explanation of this process, begin reading at Family-Based Immigration. The beneficiary can apply for a green card through consular processing once USCIS approves the I-130 petition and a visa is available.

Please review the DS-260 FAQs, o ur Online Immigrant Visa Forms page, or contact the NVC if you have questions about completing the online DS-260 form.
#DS 260 FORM APPLICATION HOW TO#
As a result, there is generally a wait associated with family-preference immigrant visas, and you’ll need to understand how to read the visa bulletin. To determine if you will use the new online form, and to access the DS-260 and DS-261, please visit the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website. For family preference categories however, there's a numerical limit on visas available each year. For immediate relatives, it may take approximately one month for USCIS to transition the case and receive invitation to submit additional documents from NVC. .to apply online using a new electronic Form DS-260 (Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration) instead of the previous paper Form DS-230. Visit USCIS Guide to learn about path to a green card.
#DS 260 FORM APPLICATION REGISTRATION#
As a result, the process is relatively quick. DS260 is an Immigration Visa & Alien Registration Application required by the Department of State. For immediate relative categories, there is an unlimited number of visas available. The National Visa Center, which is responsible for the collection of visa application fees and supporting documentation, will notify the petitioner and beneficiary when the visa petition is received and again when an immigrant visa is about to become available.
