Visa timeline

A visa timeline lists the steps in getting a visa.

IR-1/CR-1

USCIS Stage

• Mail in I-130 package
• Receive "receipt Notice of Action" (NOA) in mail
• Respond to any RFEs, if applicable
• Receive "approval Notice of Action" (NOA2) in mail

NVC Stage

• NVC receives case from USCIS
• NVC assigns a case number and invoice ID number (IIN)
• Petitioner/beneficiary gives both email addresses to an operator
• Submit DS-261 online form (N/A if using a lawyer)
• Pay AOS and IV fees
• Submit DS-260 online form
• Send AOS and IV package
• Respond to any checklists, if applicable
• NVC completes the case
• Case is put in queue for interview date to be scheduled
• NVC schedules an interview date
• NVC sends out case to consulate/embassy

Medical/Interview/POE Stage

• Beneficiary schedules medical with panel physician
• Beneficiary has medical done
• Medical results picked up (or are sent directly to consulate/embassy)
• Beneficiary signs up for courier service, if applicable
• Beneficiary (and petitioner, if going) attends interview with all required documents
• Beneficiary receives or picks up visa
• Pay immigration fee before POE, preferably
• Beneficiary goes through POE, hands sealed envelope, receives I-551 stamp in passport
• Receive green card in mail
• Receive SSN in mail (if selected yes on DS-260), otherwise apply in person at SSA office