Consular processing is when a person who wants to immigrate to the United States goes to their respective consulate in their country and completes the application for a green card. This process is comprised of submitting the appropriate forms and documents to the consulate, followed by an interview at that consulate. This process can be long and complicated, so it is best to educate yourself about the process and reach out to an experienced immigration attorney. Read on to learn more.
Who is Required to Go Through Consular Processing?
Most people who want to come to the United States cannot avoid consular processing as their green card application method. The United States very rarely allows an immigrant to enter the United States without having first completed consular processing.
It is important to first determine your eligibility. You will need to have an immigrant petition filed on your behalf. There are three general ways to qualify:
- Family-based
- Employment-based
- Special Classes of Immigrants
What Happens During the Consular Interview?
You may be wondering what will happen during your interview and how you can best prepare. The consulate may notify you in writing of your interview date. At the beginning of the interview, you are required to swear to tell the truth. Your medical, criminal and financial records may also be reviewed to help determine if you are admissible into the United States. If you are applying for a green card based on the fact that you are marrying a United States citizen, the interview may include personal questions that may be designed to reveal the authenticity of the relationship and impending marriage.
It is important to know that although the interview may seem to go smoothly, you may not receive approval for the immigrant visa on the spot. This is not indicative of any negative consequence of the interview, but rather for security reasons.
What is the Time Frame for Consular Processing?
Many people wonder how long the process will take. The truth is, the time frame for consular processing depends on the complexity of the case. That being said, it generally takes 9-12 months.
If you have any questions or concerns about the process, you can reach out to an experienced attorney who will walk you through it every step of the way.
Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm
John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C. and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.