1. What is the role of the National Visa Center (NVC) in I-751 Removal of Conditions cases?
The National Visa Center (NVC) is a government agency that processes immigrant visa applications for the U.S. Department of State. In I-751 Removal of Conditions cases, the NVC will review the I-751 case after it has been accepted by USCIS and forward it to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over the immigrant’s place of residence for further processing. The NVC will also provide information to the petitioner and the Applicant on the processing of the case.
2. How does the NVC process my I-751 application?
The NVC will first review your I-751 application to ensure all the requested information has been properly submitted. Then, the NVC will forward your application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS will review your application and decide whether to grant your request for permanent residence. If approved, USCIS will issue you a conditional green card and notify the NVC, who will then contact you to continue the process of applying for a permanent green card.
3. What forms does the NVC need to process the I-751 application?
The NVC will need the following forms to process an I-751 application:
1. I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence
2. USCIS G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
3. A copy of the green card
4. Evidence of the marriage, such as joint bank accounts, birth certificates of any children, joint tax returns, and other documents that show the marriage was entered into in good faith
5. Evidence of termination of any previous marriages, such as divorce decrees
6. Form I-864, Affidavit of Support from the U.S. citizen or permanent resident petitioner
7. Form I-864W, Intending Immigrant’s Affidavit of Support Exemption
8. Two passport-style photographs for each applicant
9. Any additional evidence requested by the NVC
4. How does the NVC communicate decisions on I-751 applications?
The NVC will communicate decisions on I-751 applications by mail. The notices will be sent to the mailing address provided on the application, and will include a detailed explanation of the decision.
5. How does the NVC handle requests for supporting evidence in an I-751 application?
The NVC typically requests that the petitioners submit additional evidence to support their application, such as copies of joint bank accounts, joint rental agreements, joint utility bills, joint credit card statements, birth certificates of children born to the couple, and evidence of continuous communication between the couple. The NVC may also request that the couple submit photographs and affidavits from family and friends who can attest to their genuine relationship.
6. When will the NVC contact me about my I-751 application?
The NVC will contact you about your I-751 application after it’s been received and reviewed. The NVC typically takes about 4-6 months to process your application.
7. Does the NVC provide guidance or assistance on completing I-751 forms or filing an appeal?
No, the NVC does not provide guidance or assistance on completing I-751 forms or filing an appeal. However, USCIS provides a free online guide to help individuals complete Form I-751. Additionally, the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) is a professional association of immigration lawyers who can provide in-depth advice and assistance on filing appeals.
8. Can I check the status of my I-751 application with the NVC?
No, you cannot check the status of your I-751 application with the NVC. However, you can check the status of your application with USCIS using the online case status tool.
9. What happens if I miss a deadline set by the NVC in my I-751 case?
If you miss the deadline set by the NVC in your I-751 case, your petition may be denied. You should contact the NVC immediately to explain why you missed the deadline and to determine if you can still submit your petition.
10. Can I update my contact information with the NVC after filing an I-751?
Yes. You can update your contact information with the NVC after filing an I-751. You can do this online via the NVC website, or you can contact the NVC directly to update your contact information.
11. Does the NVC provide resources to help me prepare for my interview?
Yes, the NVC provides a variety of resources to help applicants prepare for their interview. These resources include online practice interview questionnaires, information about the NVC process, and a guide for understanding how to answer the questions asked during the interview.
12. Is there a fee associated with filing an I-751 through the NVC?
No, there is no fee associated with filing an I-751 through the NVC.
13. Does the NVC offer any expedited services for processing I-751 applications?
No, the NVC does not offer any expedited services for processing I-751 applications. However, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may expedite an I-751 Form if the petitioner meets certain criteria.
14. What documents do I need to submit along with my I-751 to the NVC?
Along with Form I-751, you need to provide evidence of your relationship by submitting documents such as marriage certificates, joint tax returns, joint bank accounts, birth certificates of children born to the marriage, and proof of cohabitation.
15. How long will it take for the NVC to process my I-751 application?
The processing time for I-751 applications varies, depending on the type of application, current processing times, and the workload of the National Visa Center (NVC). Generally, NVC processing takes between 8-14 months.
16. How can I transfer my case from one USCIS office to another using the NVC?
The National Visa Center (NVC) does not have the authority to transfer cases from one USCIS office to another. Only USCIS can transfer a case from one of their offices to another. If you would like to request a transfer of your case from one USCIS office to another, you will need to contact the USCIS directly.
17. What are the consequences if my I-751 is denied by the NVC?
If your I-751 is denied by the NVC, you could be placed in removal proceedings, meaning that you could face deportation. You will need to consult with an immigration attorney to understand the potential consequences of a denial.
18. How will I be notified if my I-751 is approved by the NVC?
The National Visa Center will send you a Notice of Action (Form I-797) when your I-751 is approved. The form will include instructions for how to proceed with the next steps of the process.
19. What is the purpose of the interview after submitting an I-751 form to the NVC?
The interview after submitting an I-751 form is used to verify the information provided in the form and to ensure that the applicant is eligible for removal of conditions on their permanent resident status. During the interview, USCIS officers may ask questions regarding the application, the marriage, and any other information that can be used to assess the bona fides of the marriage.
20. Can a lawyer or representative accompany me to my I-751 interview at the NVC?
Yes, you can have a lawyer or representative accompany you to your I-751 interview. However, the lawyer or representative will not be allowed to enter the interview room with you.