Consular Processing Lawyer | Green Card & Immigrant Visa Applications Abroad
Consular processing is the path for individuals living outside the United States to obtain an immigrant visa and enter the country as a lawful permanent resident. This process is completed through a U.S. embassy or consulate, and it is required for most family-based and employment-based applicants abroad.
At AB Legal Consult, we guide families, employees, and employers through the full consular process — from initial petition approval at USCIS to the visa interview — ensuring all documents, fees, and forms are completed accurately and on time.
What Is Consular Processing?
Consular processing is the method of applying for a green card outside the United States. Once USCIS approves the immigrant petition (I-130 or I-140), the case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC), which collects fees and supporting documents before the final interview.
Consular processing is used for:
• Spouses abroad
• Parents and children outside the U.S.
• Employment-based applicants residing internationally
• Certain humanitarian and special immigrant cases
After a successful interview, the applicant receives an immigrant visa to enter the U.S. and becomes a permanent resident upon arrival.
Who Should Use Consular Processing?
Consular processing is appropriate for:
• Foreign spouses waiting abroad for a green card
• Family members outside the United States
• Employment-based applicants residing internationally
• Applicants who cannot adjust status inside the U.S.
• Individuals who entered the U.S. without inspection and cannot adjust
In many cases, this is the fastest and most efficient path for green card approval.
Step-by-Step Consular Processing Overview
Step 1: USCIS Petition Approval
The U.S. petitioner files Form I-130 or I-140. After approval, USCIS sends the case to the National Visa Center.
Step 2: NVC Case Creation
NVC assigns a case number and sends instructions for:
• Visa fee payments
• Financial sponsorship forms (I-864 or I-864A)
• Submission of civil documents
Step 3: DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application
The intending immigrant completes the DS-260 online visa application.
Step 4: Document Submission
The applicant uploads:
• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificates
• Police clearance certificates
• Passport pages
• Court or military records (if applicable)
• Affidavit of Support and financial evidence
Step 5: Medical Examination
A medical exam is completed with a U.S. embassy-approved physician.
Step 6: Consular Interview
The applicant attends an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
Step 7: Visa Approval
If approved, the applicant receives an immigrant visa to travel to the U.S.
Step 8: Arrival in the United States
Upon admission, the individual becomes a lawful permanent resident and receives a green card.
Required Documents for Consular Processing
Applicants typically must provide:
• Passport and biographical pages
• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificates
• Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
• Police clearance certificates
• Military records (if applicable)
• Financial sponsorship documents
• DS-260 confirmation
• Medical exam results
• Court or immigration records
We help gather, verify, and organize all documentation to avoid delays.
Common Issues in Consular Cases
Consular processing may face challenges such as:
• Missing or incorrect civil documents
• Incomplete financial sponsorship (I-864 issues)
• Inconsistencies in personal history
• Prior immigration violations or unlawful presence
• Criminal background checks
• Returning documents for correction
• Long wait times at certain embassies
We identify potential risks early and prepare your case thoroughly.
Consular Interviews: What to Expect
Consular interviews typically include questions about:
• Family relationship history (for spouses and relatives)
• Employment and job offer details (for EB visas)
• Prior travel and immigration history
• Criminal or security background
• Civil documents and personal information
We provide detailed interview preparation so applicants know what to expect and how to present themselves confidently.
Consular Processing for Spouses & Families
Family-based cases commonly involve:
• Spouses of U.S. citizens
• Parents of U.S. citizens
• Children and stepchildren
• Siblings (U.S. citizen petitioners only)
These cases require strong relationship documentation, consistent timelines, and financial sponsorship compliance.
Consular Processing for Employment-Based Applicants
Employment-based applicants must show:
• Valid job offer
• Approved I-140 petition
• Proper supporting documentation
• Education, work experience, and credential evidence
We help prepare a complete and organized submission for NVC and the consulate.
How AB Legal Consult Helps With Consular Processing
We provide full legal support throughout the entire process:
• Initial eligibility assessment
• Guidance on civil documents and translations
• NVC case creation and document uploads
• Preparation of the DS-260 and Affidavit of Support
• Review of all financial requirements
• Interview preparation and travel guidance
• Assistance with waivers if necessary
• Support with visa issuance and entry to the U.S.
Our goal is to ensure a smooth, accurate, and stress-free consular experience.
Start Your Consular Processing Case Today
Whether you are sponsoring a spouse, parent, or employee, we are ready to help you complete the consular process with confidence. Our firm provides detailed guidance for families and employers worldwide.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a consular processing lawyer.