Both the petitioner (the person or entity sponsoring your immigration) and the applicant (you) must be actively involved in the US immigration visa process. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Step 1: Petition Submission
In the first stage, the petitioner, typically a family member or employer, files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) or the appropriate form for employment-based immigration. This form can be submitted via email or regular mail.
Step 2: Case Processing
Once the petition is approved, your case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC), and you’ll receive a welcome letter with login details for the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC). Here, you’ll be able to monitor your case, pay fees, and submit required documents.
Step 3: Payment of Fees
At this stage, two processing fees need to be paid:
- Immigrant Visa Application Fee
- Affidavit of Support Fee
The petitioner typically pays these fees using a US-based bank account.
Step 4: Affidavit of Support
The petitioner (your sponsor) must agree to financially support you in the US by signing an Affidavit of Support, committing to be financially responsible until you become a US citizen.
Step 5: Financial Documents Submission
The petitioner submits evidence of their financial standing, such as tax returns, to demonstrate their ability to support you.
Step 6: Online Application Submission
You, as the applicant, must complete and submit an online immigrant visa application form (DS-260) and pay the required fees. After submission, you’ll print the confirmation page for your visa interview.
Step 7: Gathering Supporting Documents
You must gather supporting documents, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, and any other relevant documents. If these documents aren’t in English, certified translations must be provided.
Step 8: File Preparation
Both parties ensure that all files and documents are ready in formats such as PDF, JPG, or JPEG.
Step 9: Document Submission
You’ll upload the necessary documents through the CEAC platform.
Step 10: Interview Notification
You will receive an email with the date and location for your US visa interview. Before the interview, complete the following:
- Medical examination by an authorized doctor
- Organizing your documents
Step 11: Attend Visa Interview
Attend the scheduled visa interview at the designated US embassy or consulate with all your prepared documents.