Steps in the Immigration Process

https://www.uscis.gov/

Each of these steps are much more involved than they appear here. I will go into detail when I explain the process we went through.

The immigration process for a wife of an American citizen typically involves these steps:

1. File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/i-130.pdf

The American citizen spouse files Form I-130 with USCIS, providing documentation of the marriage and relationship.

• Required documents: marriage certificate, birth certificates, passport, photos, etc.

1. National Visa Center (NVC) Processing

• After I-130 approval, the case is sent to the NVC for further processing.
• The NVC assigns a case number and forwards it to the U.S. embassy or consulate where the spouse will apply for a visa.

1. Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application)

• The spouse completes Form DS-260 online and submits required documents, such as medical exam results and police certificates.
• https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/visas/DS-260-Exemplar.pdf

1. Consular Interview

• The spouse attends an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, bringing original documents and proof of relationship.

1. Visa Approval and Entry to the U.S.

• If approved, the spouse receives an immigrant visa and can enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident (LPR).
• Upon entry, the spouse gets a green card (valid for 2 years if conditional, 10 years if not).

1. Conditional Permanent Residence (if applicable)

• If married less than 2 years, the spouse gets conditional permanent residence.
• File Form I-751 to remove conditions within 90 days before the 2-year anniversary of getting the green card.

1. Naturalization (optional)

• After 3 years as a permanent resident (or 5 years if not married to a U.S. citizen), the spouse can apply for U.S. citizenship.

Consult an immigration attorney or official USCIS resources for specific guidance, as processing times and requirements may vary.

Another description of the process:

The U.S. immigration process generally involves submitting a petition, undergoing processing by the National Visa Center (NVC), attending an interview, and completing a medical exam. The process starts with a sponsor filing a petition, such as a Form I-130, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After USCIS approves the petition, the case moves to the NVC for document submission, fee payments, and a review of financial and civil documents. The final stages include a medical exam and an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, where a decision is made on the visa. 

Initial steps

• File a petition: A U.S. citizen or permanent resident files a petition to start the process for a family member.
• Petition approval: The petition is approved by USCIS. 

National Visa Center (NVC) processing

• Case is sent to NVC: Once approved, the case is sent to the NVC for processing.
• Pay fees: The applicant must pay various fees to the NVC.
• Submit documents: Applicants submit an online application, financial documents (like an Affidavit of Support), and civil documents. 

Final interview and medical examination

• Medical examination: The applicant must complete a medical exam with a panel physician.
• Interview: The applicant attends an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
• Visa issuance: If approved at the interview, the visa is issued.