Determine your reason for applying for an immigrant visa. Answer one of the following questions about sponsorship: Are you sponsored by a U.S. citizen relative? A U.S. lawful permanent resident? Or a perspective employer?
Use the Internet to visit the U.S. Department of State website to download a petition for an immigrant visa, depending on your sponsorship status.
File the petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, USCIS, according to the detailed instructions provided on the USCIS website. Filing instructions vary depending on type of form submitted.
File an immigrant visa application form, Affidavit of Support Form and fee payment with The National Visa Center, NVC. Send the appropriate forms upon approval of your application to the NVC. The NVC notifies you if your application was approved and requests additional necessary documents according to your immigration status.
Prepare for an in-person interview at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Obtain all necessary paperwork and documents, such as proof of a medical examination, passport photographs and an original birth certificate.
Wait to receive notification via the postal service or email from the NVC of the approval or reasons for denial of the immigrant visa.
