After an EB-3 case has been approved at the previous stages and its Priority Date becomes current according to the Visa Bulletin, many applicants wonder: “What will the NVC do next?”
The NVC plays an important role in the immigrant visa process. It receives cases from USCIS and guides applicants through the necessary procedures before their visa interview.
So, what exactly does the NVC do, and what should applicants prepare at this stage?
What Is the NVC?
The NVC (National Visa Center) is part of the U.S. Department of State.
For applicants applying for an immigrant visa from outside the United States, the NVC receives the case after USCIS has completed its adjudication and the case is eligible to proceed to immigrant visa processing.
The NVC does not make the final decision to issue or refuse a visa. Instead, it coordinates and prepares the case for the visa interview.
When Is a Case Transferred to the NVC?
After the I-140 petition is approved by USCIS and the case is eligible to move forward in the process, it will be transferred to the NVC.
When the Priority Date becomes current according to the Visa Bulletin, the NVC will guide the applicant through the next steps in preparation for the immigrant visa process.
What Does the NVC Do?
After receiving the case, the NVC performs several tasks to prepare it for the visa interview, including:
- Receiving and managing the case.
- Providing instructions for completing the required procedures.
- Receiving the required documents.
- Reviewing the case for completeness.
- Coordinating the scheduling of an interview with a U.S. Embassy or Consulate once the case is eligible.
What Should Applicants Do When Working With the NVC?
At this stage, applicants should:
- Monitor notices and updates related to their case.
- Prepare and submit the required documents.
- Carefully review all information before submission.
- Promptly report any changes in personal information or case circumstances.
Preparing complete and accurate documentation can help reduce the need for additional submissions and support a smoother process.
What Happens After Completing the NVC Process?
Once the case has been completed and meets the applicable requirements, the NVC will coordinate the scheduling of an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
The applicant will then proceed with important steps such as:
- Completing the required medical examination.
- Preparing the documents to bring to the interview.
- Attending the immigrant visa interview.
These are important steps before the case can be considered for visa issuance.
Does the NVC Issue Visas?
No.
The NVC is not the authority that issues visas.
The decision to issue or refuse a visa is made by a consular officer at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate after reviewing the case and conducting the interview.
How Can Applicants Make the NVC Process Smoother?
To minimize potential issues during this stage, applicants should:
- Prepare complete documentation.
- Monitor notices regularly.
- Complete all requirements within the applicable deadlines.
- Consult their immigration consultant or attorney if anything is unclear.
Being proactive can help the case proceed more efficiently.
Conclusion
The NVC serves as an important bridge between USCIS and the U.S. Embassy or Consulate during the immigrant visa process.
Understanding the role of the NVC can help applicants proactively prepare their documents, complete the necessary procedures, and be ready for the immigrant visa interview.
If you are currently following an EB-3 case and would like to know which stage of the process your case is in, contact TGA for assistance from our professional team.
