Question 1

What types of visas are available for people to come to the United States?

Accepted Answer

There are more than 20 types of nonimmigrant (temporary) visas and many categories of immigrant (permanent) visas. The visa you need depends on the purpose of your travel, such as tourism, work, study, business, or immigration. For guidance on which visa best fits your situation, contact Your Legal Compass PC for personalized support.

Question 2

Why don't you have my case at the National Visa Center yet?

Accepted Answer

After you submit a petition (I-130, I-140, etc.) to us, we review and approve it. Once approved, we sends the petition to the National Visa Center, if you plan to apply from outside the U.S. National Visa Center assigns a case number and sends a letter with next steps. Processing times may vary, so check the National Visa Center processing times page for updates.

Question 3

I am the beneficiary (applicant) and my case is at National Visa Center. Now what happens?

Accepted Answer

When a visa is available, National Visa Center will notify the beneficiary to begin pre-processing. You will pay the required fees through CEAC and then submit necessary documents, including the Affidavit of Support, application forms, and civil documents.

Question 4

How much are the fees for the National Visa Center's Services?

Accepted Answer

Current fees for visa processing, Affidavit of Support review, and the Immigrant Visa Security Surcharge can be found on the Fees for Visa Services page.

Question 5

I am in the United States and would like to adjust my status. How do I do that?

Accepted Answer

When a visa is available, National Visa Center will ask about your plans. If you choose to adjust status in the U.S., National Visa Center will hold your file, and US—not National Visa Center—will process your adjustment. Contact US

Question 6

I am adjusting my status, what do I do about the fees requested by National Visa Center?

Accepted Answer

If you are planning to adjust your status, do not pay any fees. Instead, notify the NVC of your intent to adjust and contact Tu Brújula Legal, PC for guidance on the next steps. We will help you understand the process and make sure your case stays on the right track.

Question 7

I have been waiting for a very long time for my relative to get an immigrant visa. Now there is a family emergency and I need my relative to immigrate soon to the U.S. Can National Visa Center help me?

Accepted Answer

If a visa is available and there is a life-or-death medical emergency, you can request expedited processing by submitting a statement from a physician or medical facility. Include your case or receipt number and at least one identifier (petitioner or beneficiary name and date of birth, or invoice ID). If no visa is available, National Visa Center cannot expedite the petition.

Question 8

My relative went for his interview for an immigrant visa at the U.S. Embassy, but was refused. Can National Visa Center review this case?

Accepted Answer

No. National Visa Center cannot change visa decisions. Contact the U.S. consular office where the visa was processed for assistance.

Question 9

My immigrant visa expired before I was able to travel to the United States.  What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Contact the Immigrant Visa Unit of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate that issued your visa. You may need to submit a new DS-260, pay the visa fee again, and provide updated documents like a medical exam or police certificate. Requests to reissue visas are considered case by case, and eligibility must be re-established—approval is not guaranteed.

Question 10

I moved. How do I give you my new address?

Accepted Answer

Submit your new address, phone number, or email using the Public Inquiry Form to keep your case information up to date.

Question 11

What do I need to do to remove an attorney from my case?

Accepted Answer

You must notify National Visa Center in writing using the **Public Inquiry

Question 12

What do I need to do to add an attorney to my case?

Accepted Answer

Submit a signed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Representative, to National Visa Center using the Public Inquiry Form.

Question 13

What do I need to do to withdraw a case?

Accepted Answer

Submit a signed written statement to National Visa Center requesting withdrawal and explaining your reason, using the Public Inquiry Form.

Question 14

How do I transfer my Immigrant Visa case from one embassy or consulate to another?

Accepted Answer

Applicants are generally scheduled to interview in their country of nationality, principal residence, or designated processing post. If you want to transfer your interview, contact National Visa Center with proof of eligibility or a reason for an exception. National Visa Center may request additional information to confirm your request.

Frequently Asked Questions