What Is Consular Processing?
Consular processing is the method used to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa from outside the United States through a U.S. embassy or consulate. Instead of applying for a green card inside the U.S. (called adjustment of status), the applicant completes the process in their home country or a foreign country where they legally reside.
Here’s how it works at a high level:
- A U.S. sponsor files an immigration petition with USCIS
- After approval, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC)
- The applicant submits forms and documents to the NVC
- The applicant attends a visa interview at a U.S. consulate
- If approved, the applicant enters the U.S. as a permanent resident
Consular processing is managed by three agencies:
- USCIS – approves the petition
- National Visa Center (NVC) – collects fees and documents
- U.S. Embassy or Consulate – conducts the final interview
Who Must Use Consular Processing?
You usually must use consular processing if:
- You live outside the United States
- You are not eligible to adjust status in the U.S.
- You entered the U.S. without inspection or overstayed a visa
- You are applying for a family-based or employment-based immigrant visa from abroad
- You won the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery
Some people inside the U.S. also end up using consular processing if:
- They violated their visa status
- They worked without authorization
- They missed deadlines for adjustment of status
Consular Processing vs Adjustment of Status
Both processes lead to a green card, but they work very differently.
| Feature | Consular Processing | Adjustment of Status |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Outside the U.S. | Inside the U.S. |
| Main Form | DS-260 | I-485 |
| Work Authorization While Pending | No | Yes |
| Travel While Pending | No | Yes (with Advance Parole) |
| Interview Location | U.S. Embassy/Consulate | USCIS Office |
| Risk of Being Stuck | Higher | Lower |
| Processing Speed | Often faster | Often slower |
Which is better?
- If you live outside the U.S., consular processing is your only option.
- If you live inside the U.S. lawfully, adjustment of status is usually safer and more flexible.
- If you have immigration violations, consular processing may increase risk.
Discover the key differences between consular processing and adjustment of status in our comprehensive guide.
