i-130 approved how long to wait 2023

Voc Authors

2 min read

·

13-11-2024

52

0

Share

I-130 Approved: How Long to Wait in 2023?

Congratulations! You've cleared a major hurdle in the immigration process with your I-130 petition for Alien Relative being approved. Now comes the waiting game. The question on everyone's mind is: how long will it take for your relative to receive their visa?

Unfortunately, there's no magic number. Processing times for immigrant visas vary greatly depending on several factors, including:

• Your relative's nationality: Certain countries have longer wait times than others.
• The visa category: The wait time for a family-based visa is different from an employment-based visa.
• The US consulate location: Some consulates are processing applications faster than others.
• The current backlog: There are currently backlogs for many visa categories, so the wait time can be substantial.

Understanding Visa Processing Times

Here's how to get an idea of the current processing timeline:

• Visa Bulletin: The US Department of State publishes the Visa Bulletin each month. This document lists the current visa availability for each country and category. It provides a helpful starting point for estimating your wait time.
• National Visa Center (NVC): Once your I-130 is approved, your case will be transferred to the NVC. They will send you a welcome letter with instructions on how to proceed with the next steps. You can find the NVC's estimated processing times for specific categories on their website.

Keep in mind that these timelines are just estimates. The actual wait time could be shorter or longer.

What to Do While You Wait

• Stay organized: Keep all your paperwork in order and easily accessible.
• Communicate with the NVC: If you have any questions or need clarification, contact the NVC.
• Be patient: The visa process can take time, so don't get discouraged.
• Stay informed: Keep an eye on the Visa Bulletin and the NVC's website for any updates on processing times.

What Happens After the Visa is Approved?

Once your relative's visa is approved, they will need to schedule an interview at the US consulate in their home country. During the interview, they will need to provide documentation and answer questions about their eligibility for the visa.

After the interview, the consular officer will make a decision on the visa application. If approved, your relative will be able to travel to the United States and begin their new life with you.

Remember: The immigration process can be complicated and stressful. If you need help navigating it, consider consulting with an immigration attorney. They can provide expert guidance and support throughout the entire process.