Consular Processing
Consular processing is the route to a US green card in which you apply for an immigrant visa at a US embassy or consulate outside the United States, then become a permanent resident when you enter the US with that visa.
How it works
After USCIS approves the petition (such as an I-130 or I-140), the case goes to the National Visa Center. You pay fees, submit Form DS-260, and upload documents. When your priority date is current, the consulate schedules an interview and a medical exam.
If approved, you receive an immigrant visa and become a permanent resident on entry. Your green card is mailed later.
2026 note: immigrant visa interviews were frozen worldwide from August 25, 2026, with no set restart date, and a separate travel ban affects 39 countries. Check Status Now and our consular processing guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is consular processing the same as adjustment of status?
No. Consular processing happens abroad. Adjustment of status happens inside the US.
Who does the interview?
A US consular officer at the embassy or consulate that handles immigrant visas for your country.
How long does consular processing take?
It depends on your category, priority date, and consulate backlog. There is no single standard time.
Official sources
- State Department: The immigrant visa processtravel.state.gov
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.