In a globalized world where borders are progressively becoming less secure, under immigrant visa is necessary for the formation of economies and societies.
Every year, millions of people attempt to relocate abroad, whether it is for employment, to be closer to family, or to seek safety. Yet, exactly who is eligible for an immigrant visa?
Let’s explore it.
Who comes under immigrant visa?
- Immigrant Visa
A document named an immigrant visa is one that the government of a foreign country issues to permit a person to reside and work there permanently. This is not the same as a non-immigrant visa, which is usually issued for short-term travel or business trips.
Who Qualifies?
1. Family-Based Immigration
- Family members of citizens or permanent resident come under immigrant visa in several countries. Spouses, kids, parents, and siblings are all included in this.
- Sponsorship by a resident family member or citizen is frequently required for the process.
2. Employment-Based Immigration
- Depending on their qualifications, job offers, and level of investment in the economy of the country, skilled workers, professionals, and investors could be eligible for immigrant visas.
3. Diversity Visa Lottery
- To promote diversity, some nations, like the United States, have diversity visa programs that select a specific amount of applicants at random from countries with historically low immigration rates.
- Lottery winners can apply for visas to enter the country.
4. Refugees and Asylum Seekers
- People who are escaping violence, conflict, or persecution in their home countries may be eligible for refugee or asylum status, which can result in the grant of an under immigrant visa in the country of their destination.
5. Special Immigrant Categories
- Certain categories of people may be eligible for immigrant visas under particular circumstances, including religious workers, former U.S. government employees, employees of international organizations, and other special cases.
The Application Process
Whatever the category, there are usually a few steps involved in the application process for an immigrant visa,
- Submit Petition
Most of the time, a sponsor like a relative or employer must petition the immigration authorities on the applicant’s behalf.
- Wait for Approval
Upon approval of the petition, the applicant might have to wait for the granting of a visa number, particularly in cases where there are annual numerical caps.
- Complete Forms
The candidate needs to fill out a number of forms and gather supporting documentation, including birth certificates, police reports, passports, and medical exams.
- Attend Interview
To figure out whether an applicant is eligible for an immigrant visa, many countries require them to appear for an interview at an embassy or consulate.
- Receive Visa
The applicant gets an immigrant visa upon approval, allowing them to enter the country of destination and apply for permanent residence.
Read: Does Tourist Visa Rejection Affect Student Visa?
What is the next step after receiving immigrant visa?
Once you have your immigrant visa, there are two main things you need to do,
- Pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee
Most immigrants must pay this fee, which is required, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before their departure [USCIS immigrant fee].
Before completing the payment, make sure you are eligible for one of the few exceptions.
- Travel to the United States
You have to enter the country before your visa expires. This usually happens six months after it is issued, but if your medical exam expires earlier, it might happen sooner.
After processing your entry, officials in the United States will probably stamp your passport.
This permits you to travel and work while you wait for the mail to deliver your Green Card, a process that may take several months.
Bottom Line
With the help of an immigrant visa, people can begin a new chapter of their lives abroad.
For those starting this process of relocation and resettlement, it important to understand the fundamentals of who comes under immigrant visa.
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