UNCLASSIFIED (U)

9 FAM 500
immigrant visas

9 FAM 501
Immigrant visa overview

9 FAM 501.1

Introduction to Immigrant Visas

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

9 FAM 501.1-1 Related Statutory and Regulatory Authorities

9 FAM 501.1-1(A) Immigration and Nationality Act

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

INA 211(a) (8 U.S.C. 1181(a)); INA 211(b) (8 U.S.C. 1181(b)); INA 212(a)(7); INA 212(d)(7) (8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(7)).

9 FAM 501.1-1(B) Code of Federal Regulations

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

22 CFR 42.1; 8 CFR 211.1(b).

9 FAm 501.1-2 requirement to have immigrant visa

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

a. An unexpired immigrant visa (IV), reentry permit, or other valid entry document is generally required of an immigrant under INA 212(a)(7). The regulations of the Department of Homeland Security contained in 8 CFR 211.1(b) relating to waivers of documentary requirements for immigrants provide for admission of certain aliens without visas. See 9 FAM 201.2 for details on travel without an immigrant visa.

b. A foreign citizen seeking to immigrate generally must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident immediate relative(s), or prospective U.S. employer, and have an approved petition before applying for an immigrant visa.

UNCLASSIFIED (U)