National Visa Center: Immigrant Visa Processing

What Is The Role Of The National Visa Center (NVC) In The Immigrant Visa Processing Journey?

The National Visa Center (NVC) is responsible for pre-processing of immigrant visas for family-sponsored and employment-based immigrants. It is the first point of contact for individuals applying for an immigrant visa after their petition has been approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The NVC receives the approved petitions, collects the fees, reviews the documentation, and completes the required security checks. Once these steps are completed, the applicant’s file is forwarded to the U.S. embassy or consulate. At this stage, the individual is informed they have an available visa number and is invited to schedule an interview with a consular officer to complete the visa application process.

How Do I Know If My Immigrant Visa Case Has Been Forwarded To The NVC For Processing?

Once your immigrant visa case has been forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing, you will receive an email from the NVC confirming that they have received your case. The email will provide additional instructions on what to do next and the steps that must be taken in order to complete the processing of your visa.

What Documents Are Required To Be Submitted To The NVC For Immigrant Visa Processing?

1. Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application.
2. Medical Exam Report (Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record).
3. Affidavit of Support (Form I-864, Affidavit of Support under Section 213A of the Act).
4. Copy of Birth Certificate.
5. Copy of Marriage/Divorce Certificates, as applicable.
6. Evidence of Financial Support (if applicable).
7. Proof of Legal Name Change (if applicable).
8. Police Certificate (if applicable).
9. Evidence of Termination of Prior Marriages (if applicable).
10. Copy of Passport Bio Page.
11. Photos (two 2×2 inches).
12. Evidence of Military Service (if applicable).
13. Evidence of Degree or Qualification (if applicable).
14. Any additional documents requested by the NVC or the Consulate/Embassy.

How Do I Submit The Required Documents To The NVC, And What Is The Preferred Format?

The NVC requires certain documents in order to proceed with your immigration case. These documents must be submitted electronically via the Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC). The preferred format is a PDF (Portable Document Format) file. All documents must be in English or translated into English and must include a Certified English translation if not originally in English. Before uploading documents to CEAC, they must be properly labeled with the document name, the sender’s name, and date of submission.

Can You Explain The Process Of Paying The Immigrant Visa Processing Fees To The NVC?

The National Visa Center (NVC) requires payment of the immigrant visa processing fees before it can begin to process your visa application. The NVC accepts payments by mail, online, and through third party processors. To pay the fees, you must first create an account with the NVC. After creating your account, you can submit a payment request via credit card or bank transfer. Once you submit the payment request, the NVC will review it and send you a confirmation email with details on how to complete the payment. You then have the option to pay by mail with a check or money order made out to the Department of State; or with a credit card online via the NVC’s secure payment portal. If you choose to pay with a third party processor, you will need to provide them with the NVC’s bank information so they can process your payment. Once your payment has been received and processed by the NVC, they will send you a receipt and update your case status in their system.

What Is The Significance Of The NVC Case Number, And How Can I Use It To Track My Case?

The NVC case number is a unique identifier assigned to each petition and case by the U.S. Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC uses this number to track all petitions and cases throughout the immigration process. The NVC case number can be used to track the progress of your case with the NVC through their website or by emailing or calling them directly. You may also find your NVC case number in correspondence from the NVC or U.S. Embassy/Consulate.

How Long Does It Typically Take For The NVC To Review And Process The Submitted Documents?

The National Visa Center typically takes up to 90 days to review and process submitted documents. It is important to note that wait times can vary according to the specific case.

What Happens After The NVC Completes Document Review And Determines My Case Is Documentarily Qualified?

Once the NVC has completed its document review and determined that your case is documentarily qualified, the NVC will contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate that is responsible for processing immigrant visa applications from your country of origin and request that an interview be scheduled for you. The NVC will send you a letter with instructions on how to pay your immigrant visa fees and an appointment letter will be sent to you by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with instructions on the day and time of your interview.

How Does The NVC Schedule The Immigrant Visa Interview At The U.S. Embassy Or Consulate?

The NVC schedules the immigrant visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate after the immigrant has paid the visa fees and submitted all required documents. Immigrant visa applicants will receive a letter from the NVC with the date, time, and location of their scheduled interview. It is important to arrive for the interview on time and with all required documents.

Can I Request Expedited Processing Of My Case If I Have Urgent Circumstances?

Yes, you can request expedited processing of your case if you have urgent circumstances. In order to receive expedited processing, you must submit a written request with supporting documentation and evidence of the urgent circumstances. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will then review your request to determine if your case qualifies for expedited processing.

What Is The Affidavit Of Support, And How Does It Relate To NVC Processing?

An Affidavit of Support is a legally enforceable document, signed by an eligible sponsor, confirming that they will financially support an individual who is immigrating to the United States. It serves as an assurance to the U.S. government that the sponsored immigrant will not become a public charge (dependent on welfare). Once a sponsor has submitted an Affidavit of Support, it may be used as part of the National Visa Center (NVC) processing. It is used to verify the sponsor’s income and assets and to determine eligibility for immigration benefits.

Can I Make Changes To My Case Information After It Has Been Submitted To The NVC?

Yes, you can make changes to your case information after it has been submitted to the NVC. The NVC will allow you to make corrections and submit additional documents and forms, as needed, throughout the visa application process. You can make changes directly to your case information on the NVC website, or you can contact the NVC by phone or email to request changes.

How Do I Address Issues Or Discrepancies Identified By The NVC During Document Review?

If the NVC identifies any issues or discrepancies during document review, you should contact the NVC to obtain specific guidance on how to resolve the issue. The NVC may require additional evidence or an explanation to clarify or resolve the issue in order to complete the visa application process.

Can I Choose The Specific U.S. Embassy Or Consulate Where I Want To Have My Visa Interview?

In most cases, no. The consulate or embassy where you will have your visa interview will be assigned to you by the U.S. Department of State based on the country where you live. However, in some cases, such as for applicants with special or unique circumstances, you may request a waiver to have your interview at a particular embassy or consulate.

What Should I Expect During The Interview Scheduling Process After NVC Processing?

The NVC scheduling process begins after the NVC has completed the review of your documents and determined that you are eligible to move forward to the interview. Once this determination is made, the NVC will contact you to schedule the visa interview with a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

The interview appointment will include a personal interview with a consular officer, who will review your application and ask you questions about your qualifications for a visa. During the interview, you must provide valid proof of identity, such as a passport, and answer questions about your background and purpose for seeking a visa.

You should also be prepared to provide documents that prove your relationship to your petition, such as marriage or birth certificates, and evidence that you have enough financial resources to support yourself for the duration of your stay in the U.S. After the interview, the consular officer will make a decision regarding your eligibility for a visa and provide you with a decision letter.

Are There Any Required Medical Examinations Or Vaccinations As Part Of NVC Processing?

No, there are no medical examinations or vaccinations required as part of the NVC processing. However, if you are applying for a U.S. immigrant visa, you must submit a completed Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination) before the visa can be issued.

Can You Explain The Role Of The Visa Bulletin And Priority Dates In NVC Processing?

The Visa Bulletin is a monthly report published by the U.S. Department of State. It contains information about the availability of visas and their priority dates. Priority dates are the dates when a visa application is filed with NVC. This date will determine when a case is scheduled to be processed. NVC processes cases based on the priority dates listed in the Visa Bulletin; therefore, the earlier the priority date, the sooner the case will be processed.

What Happens If I Miss A Deadline Or Fail To Provide Required Documents To The NVC?

If you miss a deadline or fail to provide the required documents to the NVC, your case will be declared abandoned and you will have to re-apply.

How Do I Prepare For The Visa Interview After NVC Processing Is Complete?

To prepare for the visa interview, you should review the visa application and supporting documents that were submitted to the National Visa Center (NVC). You should also be prepared to discuss your relationship with your intended U.S. resident or citizen. You should also familiarize yourself with all the required documents that need to be presented during the interview, practicing with a family member or friend to make sure all the paperwork is in order. Additionally, it is important to practice speaking English if English is not your native language, as well as prepare a list of questions that you may be asked during the visa interview. Being honest and confident during the interview is also essential.

Where Can I Find Resources And Support To Navigate NVC Immigrant Visa Processing Effectively?

1. U.S. Department of State: The Department of State’s website provides a comprehensive overview of the NVC immigrant visa process, including eligibility requirements, processing timelines, and information on fees and forms.

2. National Visa Center (NVC): The NVC offers comprehensive information on the NVC immigrant visa process, including visa application forms, processing times, and scheduling an appointment for the immigrant visa interview.

3. U.S. Embassy/Consulate: The website for each U.S Embassy or Consulate will provide detailed instructions on the NVC immigrant visa process specific to each country and region.

4. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): USCIS provides information on how to apply for the NVC immigrant visa and how to prepare for the interview.

5. Immigrant Visa Support Resources: There are numerous online resources available to assist in navigating the NVC immigrant visa process, including websites, online forums, and guides from organizations specializing in immigration law and services.