Consular Processing Attorneys in New York
Those individuals who live outside of the United States and/or those foreign nationals that are not eligible to file for adjustment of status in the U.S. but wish to obtain a green card should contact an experienced attorney to help navigate the consular process. If your immigration petition has been approved and your priority date is current, then you should be able to continue the consular process of your application. This allows you to achieve permanent resident status while you are outside of the United States. It is important that you have an experienced legal team to guide you through consular processing. The attorneys at Nassau County Immigration Law Group have over 50 years of combined experience representing clients both in the United States and abroad as they navigate various immigration matters. Contact our office today to discuss your situation.
What is Consular Processing?
Consular processing allows people from other countries to apply for an immigrant visa at the U.S. Consulate abroad. If the visa is approved, they can come to the United States as a lawful permanent resident and obtain a green card. This process can be complicated so it is important to have an experienced team of attorneys on hand to help answer any questions that may arise.
Petitioning for Immigration
In order to begin consular processing, you have to make sure you are eligible to do so. Many people who go through consular processing have family in the United States or have a working relationship well-established in the U.S.. Another eligibility category is for those who are seeking refugee or asylum status. Anyone who has a family or employment sponsor will need their sponsor to file a petition on their behalf. Once USCIS approves your petition, the file is forwarded to the National Visa Center (“NVC”) where further processing is required. If you are not considered an immediate relative as that term is defined by immigration law, then you will be placed on a waiting list and you can review the waiting list at the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin site. Be aware that you will be responsible for paying visa application fees and may also have to provide supporting documentation for your petition. If your petition is denied, you will receive a notice from the USCIS that informs you why you were denied and whether you are eligible to submit an appeal.
Obtaining a Green Card
Once your petition becomes current, you will have to attend an interview with a consular officer. Here, a final decision regarding your eligibility and admittance will be made. Upon being admitted to the United States, you will become a lawful permanent resident and receive a green card. This new status allows you to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. It is critical that you carry your green card all the time.
Contact a Consular Processing Attorney
If you live outside of the United States and wish to obtain a green card and become a lawful permanent resident, you will have to go through consular processing. This process can be lengthy and complicated, so it is important that you have an experienced legal team to help you navigate each step. The attorneys at Nassau County Immigration Law Group have over 50 years of combined experience representing those in the United States and abroad as they try to fulfill their immigration goals. Contact Nassau County Immigration Law Group today to learn how we can assist you.