What is Consular Processing for Spouses of U.S. Citizens?

Consular processing is a method used by [U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)](/immigration-resources/uscis-processing-times-guide) to handle visa applications of individuals who are outside the United States. If you're a spouse of a U.S. citizen living abroad, you'll likely go through consular processing to apply for a marriage green card. 

Consular processing refers to the procedure where [U.S. embassies or consulates](https://www.usembassy.gov/^) abroad handle your visa application. This process is typically used when the applicant resides outside the U.S. at the time of application. The [U.S. Department of State](https://www.state.gov/^) manages this process, and it's the final step in obtaining a visa to legally enter the United States.

If you're the spouse of a U.S. citizen and you live outside the United States, you're eligible for consular processing. However, you must meet certain requirements, including being legally married and proving the legitimacy of your marriage. The U.S. citizen spouse must also meet certain criteria, such as financial ability to support you.

How Do I Apply for a Marriage Green Card?

Applying for a marriage green card when you're living abroad involves several steps. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

How Can I Start the Application Process: Sponsorship?

The first step in the application process is sponsorship. Your U.S. citizen spouse needs to sponsor you for a green card. They do this by filing [Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative](/immigration-resources/form-i130-petition-alien-relatives), with USCIS. This form establishes the familial relationship between you and your spouse.

Which Forms Should I File for Consular Processing?

In addition to Form I-130, you'll also need to file [Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application](/immigration-resources/form-ds260-immigrant-visa-application), through the U.S. Department of State's online [Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC)](/immigration-resources/consular-processing-guide). This form asks for information about your background, including your health, criminal and immigration history, and your family.

What are the Government Fees for Consular Processing?

There are several government fees associated with the application process. The filing fee for Form I-130 is currently $535. Once USCIS approves the I-130 petition and your case moves to the [National Visa Center (NVC)](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/national-visa-center.html^), you'll need to pay an Immigrant Visa Processing Fee, which is currently $325, and an Affidavit of Support fee, which is $120.

What Supporting Documents Do I Need for Consular Processing?

You'll need to provide several supporting documents along with your application forms. These include proof of your U.S. citizen spouse's citizenship, such as a passport or birth certificate, a copy of your civil marriage certificate, and passport-style photos of both you and your spouse. If either of you were previously married, you'll need to provide documents proving that those marriages were legally terminated.

After USCIS approves your I-130 petition, your case will be forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC is responsible for collecting visa application fees and supporting documentation and scheduling visa interviews at U.S. embassies and consulates.

How Does My Case Move to the National Visa Center (NVC)?

Once USCIS approves your I-130 petition, they will send you a notice of approval, and your case will be transferred to the NVC. The NVC will send you a notice when they receive your case. After receiving this notice, you'll need to complete the next steps in the application process, which include paying the visa application fees and submitting supporting documents.

What Role Does the National Visa Center Play in Consular Processing?

The NVC plays a crucial role in consular processing. They collect the necessary fees and supporting documents and schedule the visa interview. Once the NVC has everything they need, they will schedule your visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.

How Can I Prepare for the Pre-Interview Requirements?

Before your visa interview, there are several requirements you need to fulfill. These include a [medical examination](/immigration-resources/green-card-medical-examination-guide), signing up for passport delivery, and scheduling a [fingerprinting appointment](https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-guidance/preparing-for-your-biometric-services-appointment^).

What Should I Expect from the Medical Examination?

Before your visa interview, you'll need to undergo a medical examination by a doctor approved by the U.S. embassy or consulate. The examination includes a review of your medical history, a physical examination, chest X-ray, and blood tests. The doctor will check for any health conditions that could make you inadmissible to the U.S.

You'll need to sign up for passport delivery with a courier service. This is how you'll receive your passport and visa if your application is approved. The specific courier service you'll use depends on the country where you're applying.

How Can I Schedule a Fingerprinting Appointment?

Before your visa interview, you'll need to schedule a fingerprinting appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC). This appointment must be at least one day before your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. At this appointment, your fingerprints will be taken for biometric data collection.

How Can I Navigate the Green Card Interview?

The [green card interview](/immigration-resources/change-status-f1-green-card-marriage-guide) is a crucial part of the consular processing. Here's what you can expect and how you can prepare.

What Occurs During the Green Card Interview?

During the green card interview, a consular officer will review your application and ask questions to verify the information you've provided. They will also assess the legitimacy of your marriage. You should be prepared to answer questions about your relationship and provide additional supporting documents if requested.

How Can I Prove the Legitimacy of My Marriage?

Proving the legitimacy of your marriage is a key part of the green card interview. You can do this by providing evidence such as joint bank statements, property leases or mortgages in both names, photographs together, and affidavits from friends and family attesting to your relationship.

After the interview, the consular officer will tell you whether your visa application is approved, denied, or if they need more information. If approved, you'll receive a [visa stamp](/immigration-resources/us-visa-green-card-guide) in your passport.

Once your visa application is approved, there are a few more steps before you receive your physical green card.

What is the Visa Stamp and Why is it Important?

The visa stamp in your passport is proof that you've been approved to travel to the U.S. as a permanent resident. This stamp is typically valid for six months, during which you must enter the U.S.

After your visa is approved, you'll need to pay the [USCIS Immigrant Fee](/immigration-resources/daca-program-guide). This fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your physical green card. You can pay this fee online through the USCIS website.

When and How Will I Receive My Physical Green Card?

After you enter the U.S., USCIS will mail your green card to the U.S. address you provided. It typically takes a few weeks to receive your card after your arrival.

Navigating the consular processing can bring up several concerns. Here's how to address some common ones.

Can I Visit the U.S. While My Application is Pending?

While your green card application is pending, you can visit the U.S. as a tourist. However, you should be prepared to provide evidence that you intend to return to your home country after your visit.

If you're not married but are in a committed relationship with a U.S. citizen, you might consider a [fiancé(e) visa](/immigration-resources/k-1-visa-application-timeline). This visa allows you to enter the U.S. and marry your U.S. citizen partner within 90 days of arrival.

What are Some Frequently Asked Questions?

If your application is denied, the consular officer will provide a reason for the denial. Depending on the reason, you may be able to apply again or appeal the decision.

How Long is the Consular Processing Duration?

The processing time can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the workload of the USCIS and the NVC. Generally, you can expect the process to take several months to over a year.

To give an appropriate response, I need you to provide me with a FAQ section that I can review for errors.

Are you married to a U.S. citizen and living abroad? This guide simplifies the consular processing procedure, from completing application forms to interview preparation. Our goal is to help you secure your marriage green card.

Consular Processing: A Guide for Spouses of U.S. Citizens Residing Abroad

After you've filled the application, our expert team reviews your entries to maximize your chance of success before submission. Or if you want to avoid our online application, you can speak with our professionals who can fill your application while they are on the phone with you.

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