U.S. Embassy or Consular Processing in Charleston, SC

All travelers to the U.S. arriving on temporary & permanent visas must go through an interview process with their home U.S. embassy or consulate. This is scheduled after approval of the USCIS application was sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) for forwarding abroad.

Travelers, as future immigrants, will need a valid passport, which must remain valid for at least 6 months beyond the visa stay period, and may be subject to medical examination and vaccination requirements. These must be procured overseas with an authorized panel physician and medical facility. Police clearances may also be needed. Naturally, numerous fees will then be owing.

A Form DS-230 or DS-260, photographs, and evidence of financial support, so as not to become a public charge to the U.S., will usually be required, and in many instances the immigrant will have to also maintain a foreign residence.

The time it takes to receive an interview varies by the priority date for your visa, the preference of your visa, and backlogs at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. At the interview, attorneys are not usually allowed; you will be digitally fingerprinted, and documents and purpose of entry will be reviewed. An approval can additionally be delayed because of fingerprint and background checks. Beware! Fraudulent statements or documents can result in being permanently barred from entering the U.S.

Upon finally receiving your visa, it will probably be contained in a sealed packet. Don't open it. Present it upon entering the U.S., as requested. Finally, do not make travel plans, sell your house, quit your job, or purchase nonrefundable airline tickets until approved. The entry visa is usually valid for 6 months. Plenty of time to settle your overseas affairs.