.png)
Frequently Asked Questions
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 Tu Brújula Legal, PC for personalized support.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
No. National Visa Center cannot change visa decisions. Contact the U.S. consular office where the visa was processed for assistance.
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.
Submit your new address, phone number, or email using the Public Inquiry Form to keep your case information up to date.
Submit a signed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Representative, to National Visa Center using the Public Inquiry Form.
Submit a signed written statement to National Visa Center requesting withdrawal and explaining your reason, using the Public Inquiry Form.
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.