Consular Processing

Consular processing is the procedure of applying for an immigrant visa (green card) through a U.S. embassy or consulate in a foreign country. It is also one of two paths for obtaining an immigrant visa to the United States through family-based immigration. Consular processing means that a person intending to immigrate to the United States goes to a U.S. embassy or consulate in his or her home country to complete the application for a green card (lawful permanent residence). This involves submitting forms and documents to the consulate, having a medical exam done, and attending an interview there.

Consular processing is an alternate process for an individual outside the United States (or who is in the United States but is ineligible to adjust status) to obtain a visa abroad and enter the United States as a permanent resident) This pathway is referred to as “consular processing.”