Consular Processing
NVC Process Guide
After USCIS approves your petition, the National Visa Center handles your case. Step by step.
What is the NVC?
The National Visa Center (NVC) is part of the U.S. Department of State. When your family-based petition (I-130 or I-129F) is approved by USCIS, the case is sent to NVC. NVC collects fees, forms, and documents before sending your case to the U.S. embassy or consulate for the visa interview.
The process
Petition approved
USCIS approves your I-130 or I-129F. Case transfers to NVC.
Receive welcome letter
NVC sends a welcome letter with your case and invoice ID.
Pay fees
Pay immigrant visa fee and affidavit of support fee online (CEAC).
Submit DS-260
Complete the online immigrant visa application.
Submit civil documents
Birth certificate, marriage cert, police cert, passport copy, etc.
Affidavit of support
I-864 from petitioner. Financial evidence.
Documentarily qualified
NVC reviews. When complete, case goes to embassy for interview.
Interview letter
Embassy schedules interview. Attend with originals and medical.