Consular processing is the method by which individuals apply for a visa or a Green Card at a U.S. consulate located in a foreign country. This process is often necessary when a U.S. citizen marries a non-citizen living outside the United States. In such cases, the non-citizen spouse must complete the Green Card application through consular processing in their country of residence.
Consular processing is primarily used in immigration law. It allows individuals who are outside the U.S. to obtain their immigrant visas or Green Cards. This process is essential for family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, and other categories where individuals seek to live permanently in the U.S. Users can often manage their applications using legal templates from resources like US Legal Forms, which provide guidance on the necessary forms and procedures.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A U.S. citizen marries a foreign national in Mexico. The foreign spouse applies for a Green Card through consular processing at the U.S. consulate in Mexico City.
Example 2: A U.S. employer sponsors a foreign worker for a job in the U.S. The worker must apply for an immigrant visa through consular processing in their home country, such as India. (hypothetical example)
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustment of Status | The process of applying for a Green Card while in the U.S. | Consular processing is for applicants outside the U.S., while adjustment of status is for those already in the U.S. |
| Visa Waiver Program | A program allowing certain nationals to travel to the U.S. without a visa for short stays. | Consular processing is for obtaining immigrant visas; the Visa Waiver Program is for temporary travel. |
If you need to go through consular processing, start by gathering all necessary documents and filling out the required forms. Consider using legal templates from US Legal Forms to streamline the process. If your situation is complex, consulting with an immigration attorney can provide valuable guidance.
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It is the process of applying for a visa or Green Card at a U.S. consulate in a foreign country.