1. What role does the National Visa Center (NVC) have in visa denials and ineligibilities?

The National Visa Center (NVC) is responsible for collecting the documents and fees from applicants and then transferring the case to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where the visa interviews will take place. The NVC does not make decisions on visa denials or ineligibilities; those decisions are made by a consular officer at the Embassy or Consulate. In some cases, the NVC may provide notification of visa denials and ineligibilities to applicants.

2. Does the NVC review all visa applications?

No, the NVC does not review all visa applications. They review applications for family-based immigrant visas (IR, F, M, DV), K nonimmigrant visas, and certain special immigrant visas.

3. How does the NVC determine whether a visa application is denied or ineligible?

The NVC will review all visa applications for eligibility and assess the information supplied in the application. If an application is found to be incomplete, missing necessary information, or containing incorrect or false information, the NVC will deny the application. Other factors that could lead to an application being denied or declared ineligible include: if an applicant does not meet the criteria for a visa, if an applicant does not have sufficient financial resources to cover their stay in the United States, or if they have any criminal record or histories of immigration violations.

4. Does the NVC decide when to revoke a visa?

No, the NVC does not decide when to revoke a visa. The U.S. Department of State or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can revoke a visa at any time if they find that the visa holder is in violation of the terms of the visa or other immigration laws.

5. How can I appeal a visa denial or ineligibility decision by the NVC?

If you have been denied a visa by the NVC (National Visa Center), you may appeal the decision by submitting a written appeal to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. The appeal must be submitted within 30 days of notification of the denial. The appeal letter must include all relevant documentation, a detailed explanation of why you believe the denial was wrong, and any additional evidence that may be helpful in overturning the decision. Your appeal may be supported by letters or statements from witnesses, experts, or other persons familiar with your situation.

6. What documents does the NVC require to process a visa application?

The NVC requires the following documents to process a visa application:

1. Form DS-261 (Choice of Address and Agent),
2. Form DS-230 (Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration),
3. Affidavit of Support (if applicable),
4. Birth certificate,
5. Marriage certificates,
6. Proof of financial support,
7. Medical examination results (if applicable),
8. Passport-style photographs, and
9. Any other documents as required by the U.S. Embassy or consulate where the application will be processed.

7. What is the turnaround time for processing applications through the NVC?

The National Visa Center (NVC) typically processes an application within 3-5 months, although it can take longer depending on the complexity of the case and the number of applications received.

8. Can I submit additional documents after my visa application has been sent to the NVC?

Yes, you can submit additional documents after your visa application has been sent to the NVC. The documents must be submitted to the NVC using the Document Upload System (DUS). It is important to note that additional documents may not be accepted if they are received after the interview date.

9. How can I check on the status of my visa application with the NVC?

You can check the status of your visa application with the NVC by logging into their website and using their Case Status Online system. You will need your NVC case number and the principal immigrant’s last name to check your status.

10. How long does it take for the NVC to process a visa application?

It typically takes the NVC about 6-9 months to process a visa application. However, processing times can vary depending on the individual case.

11. Are there any fees associated with processing a visa application through the NVC?

Yes. At the time of this writing, there are fees associated with processing a visa application through the NVC, including a $325 immigrant visa application fee, and an $85 visa processing fee.

12. Will I receive confirmation when my visa application is received by the NVC?

No, you will not receive confirmation when your visa application is received by the NVC. You will receive notification when your application has been processed and is ready for review by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

13. What should I do if I receive a letter from the NVC denying or making me ineligible for a visa?

If you receive a letter from the NVC denying or making you ineligible for a visa, you should consult with an experienced immigration attorney to review the letter and discuss your options. In some cases, you may be able to file an appeal or request a waiver of ineligibility.

14. What information does the NVC need to process a visa application?

The NVC needs the following information to process a visa application:
• A copy of the approved I-130 or I-140 petition filed by the petitioner
• Receipts for the immigrant visa application fees
• The names, birthdates, passport numbers, and nationalities of all applicants
• Copies of any civil documents required for the applicant, such as birth certificates, passports, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees
• Completed DS-260 form (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application)
• Proof of financial support
• Evidence of a qualifying family relationship
• Proof of legal name change (if applicable)
• Evidence of a qualifying relationship with the petitioner

15. What types of visas are processed by the NVC?

The National Visa Center (NVC) processes immigrant visas for individuals applying for permanent residency in the United States. This includes family-based immigrant visas, employment-based immigrant visas, and Diversity Visa (DV) lottery immigrant visas.

16. Is there a deadline for submitting my visa application to the NVC?

Yes. It is recommended that you submit your visa application to the NVC within one year of the visa bulletin date for your preference category.

17. Does the NVC provide instructions for how to complete my visa application?

Yes. The National Visa Center (NVC) provides detailed instructions and guidance on completing the visa application. Instructions can be found on their website at nvc.state.gov/applicants/apply-nonimmigrant-visa.

18. Will I get an interview with a consular officer after my visa application is processed by the NVC?

No, the NVC does not interview applicants. If you are eligible for a visa, the NVC will forward your application to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country of your residence. The embassy or consulate will then contact you for an interview.

19. What happens to my file at the NVC after my interview with a consular officer has been scheduled?

Once your interview with a consular officer has been scheduled, your file at the National Visa Center (NVC) will be transferred to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad where your interview will be conducted.

20. Are there any restrictions on who can apply for a visa through the NVC?

Yes, there are certain restrictions for who can apply for a visa through the NVC. These include age, country of origin, and other eligibility criteria. The specific restrictions vary depending on the type of visa being applied for.