Immigrant Visas
Immigrant Visa Processing: After the Petition
Once a petition is approved, the second step of the immigrant visa application process begins. This requires that the beneficiary provide further documentation and come to the Embassy consular section for an interview.
Visa Fees
The total cost of each immigrant visa application processing fee (per person) is $400. Fees must be paid per person regardless of age, and are not refundable. Local currency equivalents are accepted. Fees should not be sent to the consular office.
Medical Examinations
Before the issuance of an immigrant visa, every applicant, regardless of age, must undergo a medical examination. The examination must be conducted by a doctor designated by the consular section. Examination costs must be borne by the applicant, in addition to the visa fees.
Affidavit of Support: Form I-864
The petitioner in family immigrant cases or who has ownership interest in the petitioning company in employment-based cases must complete a Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. If the petitioner does not meet the minimum income requirements, you will need a joint sponsor to also fill out an I-864. Form I-864 accompanied by the most recent tax return is a requirement for spouses, parents and children of petitioners.
The Interview
Applicants will receive letters from the National Visa Center letting them know the time and date of their interview. Applicants should be prepared to arrive at this scheduled time, and to pay any outstanding fees.
To reschedule an appointment please e-mail consulartunis@state.gov with your name, case number, original interview date and reason for rescheduling. Someone will get back to you as soon as possible. Requests to reschedule appointments must be made at least one week before the scheduled appointment.
Miscellaneous
Since no advance assurances can be given that a visa will be issued, applicants are advised not to make any final travel arrangements, not to dispose of their property, and not to give up their jobs until visas have been issued to them. An immigrant visa is generally valid for six months from date of issuance.
With few exceptions, a person born in the U.S. has a claim to U.S. citizenship. Persons born in countries other than the U.S. may have a claim, under U.S. law, to U.S. nationality if either parent was a U.S. citizen at the time of the applicant's birth.
Any applicant believing that he or she may have a claim to United States citizenship should not apply for a visa until his or her citizenship has been determined by the consular office.