UNCLASSIFIED (U)

9 FAM 501.2

Immigrant Visa Process

(CT:VISA-1; 11-18-2015)
(Office of Origin: CA/VO/L/R)

9 FAM 501.2-1 statutory and regulatory Authorities

(CT:VISA-1; 11-18-2015)

INA 212(a)(7) (8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(7)).

9 FAM 501.2-2 Immigrant visa classifications and processing (overview)

(CT:VISA-1; 11-18-2015)

Most immigrants receive visas in the family or employment based visa categories. To be eligible to apply for an immigrant visa (IV), a foreign citizen must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen relative, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or a prospective employer, with a few exceptions. The sponsor begins the immigration process by filing a petition on the foreign citizens behalf with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After petition approval, the National Visa Center (NVC) handles processing for certain kinds of documents, sending them onward to post. Post then reviews the visa application and supporting documents, conducts an interview to determine visa eligibility, and completes processing.

9 FAM 501.2-3 Immigrant visa document and travel (overview)

(CT:VISA-1; 11-18-2015)

As noted in 9 FAM 302.1-3(A), to comply with INA 212(a)(7)(A), an immigrant must possess a valid, unexpired U.S. immigrant visa (IV) and valid, unexpired travel document at the time of admission into the United States. In order to demonstrate that there are no legal impediments to obtaining an IV, applicants must submit police records, court or military records if applicable, and evidence of financial support. Consular officers must also review results of applicants' medical exams, namechecks and special clearance results when evaluating applicants eligibility for the IV. If a specific document is unobtainable, consular officers must require substitute documentation or secondary evidence.

UNCLASSIFIED (U)