Consular Processing
What is Consular Processing?
Consular Processing is the legal process of applying for a U.S. immigrant visa or family-based visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate located outside of the United States.
- If you are currently outside the U.S.: You must use consular processing to legally enter and permanently live in the United States.
- If you are already inside the U.S.: Depending on how you entered the country and the specific circumstances of your case, you may be eligible to Adjust Status without leaving, or you may be required to return to your home country to complete your consular processing interview (often alongside an unlawful presence waiver).
Common Types of Family-Based Consular Visas
Consular processing covers a wide range of family-sponsored immigrant visas and temporary family visas, including:
- K-1 Visa: Fiancé of a U.S. Citizen.
- K-2 Visa: Minor children of a K-1 fiancé visa applicant.
- CR-1 / IR-1 Visas: Spouses of U.S. Citizens (Immigrant Visas).
- IR-2 / CR-2 Visas: Unmarried children (under 21) of U.S. Citizens.
- IR-5 Visas: Parents of adult U.S. Citizens.
How Paso del Norte Law Firm Can Help
Navigating National Visa Center (NVC) document portals, gathering extensive financial sponsorships, and preparing for a high-stakes interview at a foreign embassy can be overwhelming.
Our legal team guides your family through every phase of the petition, application, and interview preparation process to avoid unnecessary delays or denials.
Bring your loved ones home. Contact Paso del Norte Law Firm today to schedule a consultation regarding your family-based consular processing needs.