Know Where Your Visa is Processed
Established in 1994 and located in New Hampshire, the National Visa Center to processes all approved visa applications. Once the Department of Homeland Security's Citizenship and Immigration office has approved a visa application, it goes to the visa processing center. Once received, visa applications get sorted into categories and date prioritized. Some applications remain inactive for months or years before they are considered current.
Forms: If the National Visa Center (NVC) has received your application, you have already provided most of the required forms. If you are applying for a work visa the DS-3032 will be sent to you. Your sponsor will receive form I-864. You both need to fill out those forms and then return them before the NVC will take any additional action.
Documentation: When you filled out the initial visa application, you were required to provide certain documentation, such as your valid passport, birth certificate and photo identification. The approval of your visa may require additional documentation such as proof of vaccination, marriage or divorce papers and custodial papers. The NVC will advise you by mail if they need additional documentation.
Fees: There are additional fees for work visas and additional costs associated with some visa applications. Medical examinations are required and the fee for that will vary. Expect to pay $355 for an Immigrant Visa, $45 for the Security Enhancement and $70 for the Support Affidavit. Special forms, such as 'fiancé' forms have additional costs. Fingerprinting, photocopy and other types of documentation may require additional fees. The center will advise you on the total cost of your application fees.
Current Applications: The type of visa you have requested determines what status and attention your visa application will receive. There are a limited number of work visas available. Your application will become current when the date of entry is near. Visas for a relative or family-member are always considered current.
Contact Information: Once your application has been received you can keep track of its status by checking the NVC web site at NVCINQUIRY@state.gov. Using a touch-tone phone you can also use the toll number 1-603-334-0700. Operator assistance is available Monday - Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
