Status vs. Consular Processing in your Green Card
Obtaining a green card, granting lawful permanent residency in the US, involves two main processes: Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing. Understanding the key differences between them helps you choose the most suitable path.
Location:
Adjustment of Status: Occurs within the US.
Consular Processing: Occurs outside the US at a US consulate or embassy.
Eligibility:
Adjustment of Status: Available to individuals already in the US who meet specific criteria, like immediate family members of US citizens, certain employment-based applicants, refugees, and asylees.
Consular Processing: Typically used by individuals living abroad or those ineligible for adjustment of status. Commonly utilized by family-sponsored immigrants, employment-based immigrants, and diversity visa lottery winners.
Process:
Adjustment of Status:
File Form I-485 with USCIS.
Potentially file for an EAD and travel document (Advance Parole) concurrently.
Interview with USCIS within the US.
Consular Processing:
After USCIS approves the petition (e.g., Form I-130 or Form I-140), the case goes to the National Visa Center (NVC).
NVC coordinates with the US consulate/embassy and schedules an interview abroad.
Visa approval allows travel to the US and admission as a permanent resident.
Interview typically takes place at the US consulate/embassy abroad.
Choosing the Right Path:
Adjustment of Status: Ideal for individuals legally present in the US and meet eligibility criteria.
Consular Processing: For those residing outside the US or ineligible for adjustment of status.
Remember: The optimal path depends on your specific situation, eligibility, and preferences. Consulting an immigration expert on us immigration consultants to be helped with your paperwirk in all the process.