Consular Processing

Consular processing is the procedure by which a foreign national applies for and obtains an immigrant or non-immigrant visa at a US embassy or consulate abroad, rather than through adjustment of status within the United States. It is required when the applicant lives outside the US or is otherwise ineligible for adjustment. The process involves an application to the National Visa Center, followed by a consular interview. Most countries have analogous procedures for processing visas and residence permits for applicants residing abroad.