Consular Processing: Applying For A Green Card Before Entering The U.S.
If you are a foreign national living abroad, you can apply for permanent legal residency (a green card) before entering the country through a process called consular processing. If you need a Cincinnati consular processing attorney or guidance with employment-based immigration our immigration attorneys at the Law Office of Nazly Mamedova can guide you through the process.
What Is Consular Processing?
Consular processing is an application process by which a foreign national applies for a green card before they get to the United States. When an individual is abroad and applies for and is granted an immigrant visa to enter the United States through consular processing, they may do so as a permanent resident. The applicant will apply for entry to the U.S. through a U.S. Department of State Embassy or a U.S. consulate office abroad.
Specific Immigrant Categories For Consular Processing
Immigrants obtain permanent residency status (a green card) by a petition that is filed by an employer or a family member. If a U.S. citizen family member, permanent resident relative, or employer is filing the petition, they will do so on your behalf. You may also obtain status as a refugee or asylum status and apply for permanent residency status. If you are granted permanent legal residency through consular processing, you will be able to enter the U.S. as a permanent resident and have the right to permanently live and work in the country. Your actual green card will be mailed to you when you arrive in the U.S.
Approved Petitions
When the petition is approved, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will notify the petitioner and send the approved petition to the National Visa Center (NVS). Once an immigrant visa number becomes available, the NVS will process the application and collect the fees and necessary documentation. Consulting an experienced immigration attorney will help you know and understand exactly what you need to do.
Hire An Experienced Immigration Attorney
Whether you are applying for an employment visa because of a job with an American company or you are applying for visas on behalf of your family members, or you think you may qualify for permanent resident status through consular processing, an experienced immigration lawyer working on your behalf will help make the entire application process easier.
Schedule A Consultation Today With A Cincinnati Consular Processing Lawyer
Our immigration attorneys are available for consultations by appointment only. Contact our office today by calling Call or contact us through our website to schedule an appointment.