Nearly one-fifth of Glendale, AZ’s population is foreign-born, making immigrants and immigration concerns more common in the city than in other cities across the nation. However, many people choose to complete the green card process while still being abroad, using a process known as consular processing. There are numerous benefits associated with consular processing, including the ability for applicants to remain in their home country during what is oftentimes a lengthy process, which can also lead to fewer discretionary visa application rejections. If you are planning to obtain an immigrant visa through a consulate or embassy in another country, a Glendale consular processing lawyer can play an essential role in providing you with legal guidance.
Consular processing allows you to apply for a green card while you resides outside of the United States, rather than the adjustment of status process, which is used after you already traveled to the U.S. This type of visa is most commonly used when the applicant is the spouse or child of a U.S. resident or legal permanent resident. With consular processing, the application is made to a U.S. Department of State consulate. Most of the applicants who use this type of visa are not yet in the country or are ineligible to obtain a green card through the adjustment of status process.
The first step in consular processing is determining if you are eligible to obtain one. Eligibility generally requires your permanent resident family member or employer to file on your behalf. While immigrant petitions are commonly based on family or employment, there are special immigrant categories or humanitarian programs that may also affect the type of petition required. A Glendale consular processing lawyer can assist with determining the exact type of immigration petition needed and help gather the correct accompanying documentation.
Once the petition has been submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you must then wait for it to be reviewed. If the petition is denied, a consular processing lawyer can begin appealing the decision. If the petition is approved, it is forwarded to the National Visa Center, and you will be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. consulate or at your home country’s embassy. A consular processing lawyer helps you prepare for this interview, ensuring you have all the necessary documentation and are aware of the questions they might ask.
If the application is approved, you will receive an immigrant visa following the interview. Once you arrive in the U.S., you can begin the process of adjusting your status to become a legal permanent resident.
Immigration law is complex, and errors in applications or misunderstandings about eligibility can result in delays or even denials of visa petitions. Let one of our Glendale lawyers assist you or your family member through consular processing to obtain an immigrant visa and ultimately a green card. Contact us for a consultation today.
