29 South Webster Street, Suite 370 Naperville,
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Our Naperville immigration and nationality law attorney at Kasturi Law, LLC, understands that preparing for a U.S. immigrant visa can be a stressful journey. This is why we are here. As a proud first-generation immigrant, our law firm is dedicated to providing legal representation for immigrants from around the globe to give a voice to those who most need it.

We understand there is a lot of anxiety and stress involved in being an immigrant because our family was once in your shoes. Our goal is to provide our clients with the preparation they need to streamline the process — from start to finish.

Here, we discuss several factors that can help you prepare for a U.S. immigrant visa.

Prepare for a U.S. Immigrant Visa

What Steps Can I Take to Prepare for a U.S. Immigrant Visa?

Preparing for a U.S. immigrant visa involves several phases. Although the specific requirements may vary depending on the type of immigrant visa you are applying for, the process generally starts with the following steps.

  • Determine Your Eligibility

Immigrant visas are available for various purposes, including family reunification, employment, diversity visa lottery, refugee or asylum status, and special immigrant categories. Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the immigrant visa category you are applying for.

  • Submit Your Petition

In most cases, typically for family-based and employment-based immigrant visas, you will need a sponsor to file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

  • Gather the Required Documentation

Collect all necessary documentation to support your visa application, which may include, but are not limited to:

  • Identification documents.
  • Birth certificates.
  • Marriage certificates.
  • Police clearances.
  • Medical examination reports.
  • Financial documentation to demonstrate your ability to support yourself in the United States.
  • Complete the Visa Application Form and Pay the Necessary Fees

Fill out the appropriate application form online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website, or work closely with your immigration attorney to ensure your application is completed correctly and the appropriate fees are paid.

  • Schedule and Attend Visa Interview

After submitting your visa application and supporting documents, schedule a visa interview at your home country’s U.S. embassy or consulate. Attend the interview on the scheduled date and time, bringing all required documents with you.

On the day of your visa interview, arrive at the embassy or consulate on time and be prepared to answer questions about your background, immigration history, and the purpose of your intended travel to the United States. Provide any additional documentation requested by the consular officer.

  • Undergo a Medical Examination

Before the visa interview, you must undergo a medical examination by a physician approved by the U.S. embassy or consulate. The medical examination results will be submitted directly to the embassy or consulate.

  • Receive a Visa Decision

Following the visa interview, you will be notified of the decision on your visa application. Your passport will be returned with the immigrant visa affixed to a page inside if approved. You will also receive information on how to enter the United States and obtain your permanent resident card (green card).

Contact Our Immigration Attorney Today For Consultation

It is essential to carefully follow all instructions the U.S. embassy or consulate provides and thoroughly prepare for your visa interview. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, contact us today to learn how our Illinois immigration attorney can assist you. We provide in-office, phone, and Zoom consultations to help you understand your legal rights and options so you can make informed decisions about your immigration journey.

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