National Visa Center (NVC) Process

1. What is the NVC process?


The NVC (National Visa Center) process is a set of steps taken when a foreign national applies for a U.S. visa. The steps involve submitting documents and forms to the NVC, paying the visa application fees, being interviewed at a U.S. embassy or consulate, and finally receiving an immigrant visa or nonimmigrant visa if approved.

2. How long does it take to get through the NVC process?


The NVC process typically takes 4-6 months from the time the applicant submits their visa petition to the time they receive their visa.

3. What documents are needed for the NVC process?


The documents needed for the NVC process include:

– Form DS-230 Part I and Part II
– Birth certificate
– Marriage certificate (if applicable)
– Divorce Decree (if applicable)
– Police Certificate (if applicable)
– Medical Examination Report
– Affidavit of Support Form I-864
– Evidence of Financial Support
– Evidence of Relationship to Petitioner (if applicable)
– Passport Photos

4. How do I check the status of my NVC case?


You can check the status of your NVC case by logging in to the CEAC Status Check website. You will need your case number and applicant ID to do so. You can also call the National Visa Center at 603-334-0700 to inquire about your case.

5. How do I schedule my visa interview?


You must schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the nearest Embassy or Consulate. You can do this online or by calling the Embassy or Consulate directly. You can also use the free Visa Appointment Service offered by some Embassies and Consulates.

6. When should I submit my documents to NVC?


You should submit your documents to NVC as soon as possible, as it will take longer for them to process your application if you wait. You should make sure all documents are complete and accurate before submitting.

7. How can I contact the National Visa Center (NVC)?


The National Visa Center (NVC) can be contacted by telephone at 603-334-0700, by fax at 603-334-0738, or via mail at National Visa Center, 32 Rochester Avenue, Portsmouth, NH 03801-2914.

8. What is the difference between NVC and USCIS?


NVC (the National Visa Center) is a governmental agency that processes and pre-screens immigrant visa applications for review by U.S. consular posts abroad. They also collect fees and documents related to the immigrant visa application process. USCIS (the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) is an agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that oversees lawful immigration to the United States. They are responsible for adjudicating applications for citizenship and other immigration benefits, such as residency and work authorization.

9. How do I pay my visa application fee to NVC?


You can pay your visa application fee to the National Visa Center (NVC) with a major credit card, debit card, or bank transfer. If you choose to pay with a credit card, you will need to provide your credit card information directly to NVC. If you choose to pay with a debit card, you must provide your bank account information. If you choose to pay with a bank transfer, you must provide your bank routing number and account number.

10. How do I provide proof of financial support to NVC?


You must submit the Affidavit of Support form (Form I-864) and all supporting documents. For more information and specific instructions, please see our webpage on Affidavit of Support Requirements.

11. What forms do I need to complete for the NVC process?


The NVC process requires applicants to fill out Form DS-261, Choice of Agent, Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Application, and Supplement A to Form DS-260. In addition to these forms, applicants may be required to submit supporting documents such as birth certificates and other legal documents.

12. Can I bring family members to my visa interview?


No, only applicants are allowed to attend the visa interview. Any family members may wait in the designated waiting area.

13. What happens if I miss my visa interview appointment?


If you miss your visa interview appointment, you may be issued a Notice of Revocation of your approved visa petition by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If this happens, you will need to file a new visa petition and start the process from the beginning.

14. How do I send documents to NVC after my interview?


After your interview, the consular officer will provide you with instructions for submitting any documents that are required. These documents may be sent by mail to the National Visa Center (NVC) at the address provided, or uploaded directly to your online Immigrant Visa Application.

15. What should I expect during the visa interview process?


The interviewer will ask you questions about the information you provided in your application and may ask for additional documents to support your application. They may also ask about your education, work experience, and family information. The purpose of the visa interview is to verify that you are who you say you are, that you have a valid reason for traveling, and that you can financially support yourself while in the country.

16. How do I request an extension of time at the National Visa Center (NVC)?


The National Visa Center (NVC) does not accept requests for time extensions. If you require additional time to prepare the visa application, you must contact the U.S. embassy or consulate where you intend to apply for the visa.

17. Can I update my contact information with the NVC?


Yes, you may update your contact information with the NVC by submitting a request to the NVC at [email protected].

18. Is there a fee for changing my address with the NVC?


No, there is no fee for changing your address with the NVC.

19. What documents will be required for my visa interview?


The documents required for a visa interview will depend on the type of visa you are applying for. Generally, these documents may include proof of identity, passport photos, travel documents (such as a copy of your itinerary), financial documents (such as a bank statement to prove you have enough funds for your trip), evidence of professional or educational qualifications, and any other supporting documents related to the purpose of your trip.

20. Is there an expedited processing option with the NVC?


Yes, the NVC offers an expedited processing option for certain types of cases. This service allows you to submit your application and receive a response within two weeks. To be eligible for the expedited service, you must meet certain criteria, including having an immigrant petition that has been approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and having a priority date that is current according to the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin. Contact the NVC directly for more information about expedited processing.