Navigating the process of obtaining a spouse visa can be daunting,
But with the right guidance and resources,
You can successfully complete the process.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you understand the consulate processing application for DS-260,
Also known as the CP DS-260,
And ensure that you submit a complete and accurate application. Prepared by an expert immigration attorney,
This guide offers valuable insights into the marriage petition, spouse petition, and consulate processing application process.

Introduction to Consulate Processing
Consulate processing (CP) is the process through which foreign nationals who are married to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents can apply for a green card while living outside the United States.
This process is essential for couples who want to reunite and live together in the U.S. as lawful permanent residents.

The Marriage Petition: Form I-130
The first step in the spouse petition process is submitting Form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relative, to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). This form is filed by the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, known as the petitioner, on behalf of the foreign spouse, known as the beneficiary.

Completing Form I-130
The petitioner must provide information about themselves and their spouse, including personal details, contact information, and information about their marriage. This form serves as proof of a valid marriage and is a prerequisite for the foreign spouse to apply for a green card.

Form I-130 Processing Time
USCIS typically takes 7 to 10 months to process Form I-130. If the application is incomplete, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) within 2-3 months of submission, asking for additional information or documents.

The Consulate Processing Application: Form DS-260
After the Form I-130 is approved, the foreign spouse can proceed with the consulate processing application. The main form in this process is the DS-260, the Online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application.

Completing Form DS-260
The foreign spouse must provide detailed information about themselves, their family, their background, and their immigration history. They will also need to provide their case number, beneficiary ID number, and invoice number from the initial notice that the National Visa Center (NVC) sent them.

Form DS-260 Processing Time
After submitting the DS-260 online, the foreign spouse must print the confirmation page. The NVC should send a notice by mail or email the same day, confirming receipt of the DS-260. The NVC will then determine whether the foreign spouse is eligible for a visa interview.

The Affidavit of Support: Form I-864
The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse must also submit Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, to the NVC. This form serves as a pledge to financially support their foreign spouse if they cannot support themselves.

Completing Form I-864
The petitioner must provide information about their income, assets, and financial responsibilities, as well as proof of their ability to support their spouse. This includes tax returns, W-2 forms, and other financial documents.

The National Visa Center (NVC) and Consular Interview
Once the NVC receives the completed DS-260 and I-864 forms, they will assign an immigrant visa case number and schedule the foreign spouse for a consular interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of residence.

Preparing for the Consular Interview
The foreign spouse should gather all necessary documents, including their passport, marriage certificate, police clearance, and medical examination results. They should also review their DS-260 application and be prepared to answer questions about their relationship and eligibility for a green card.

The Consular Interview Process
During the consular interview, the consular officer will ask questions about the foreign spouse’s application, background, and marriage. The officer will also review the documents provided and determine the applicant’s eligibility for a green card.

Post-Interview and Entry to the U.S.
If the consular officer approves the CP application, the foreign spouse will receive a visa packet that allows them to travel to the U.S. They must enter the U.S. within six months and present the visa packet to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival.

Receiving the Green Card
If the foreign spouse has paid their USCIS immigrant fee, they should receive their green card within 45 days of arriving in the U.S.

Dealing with Denials and Appeals
If the consular office denies the CP application, they will explain the reason for the denial. The foreign spouse has one year to correct the application and reverse the denial. Working with an experienced immigration attorney is crucial in this situation.