In addition, it is the government destination, which could be very complex with the entire immigration process, especially for people who are trying to get green cards from outside the borders of this nation. The two key forms in the process of submission are the DS-260 and DS-261. How these forms are completed and submitted holds the key to a smooth application experience.
Read more: Social Security Calculator: How much Social Security will I get if I make $95,000 a year?
What Is the DS-260?
The DS-260, which is officially termed as the “Immigrant Visa Electronic Application,” is the most significant green card application for people who are currently non-residents of the United States. It is filed with the National Visa Center and the applicable local U.S. embassy or consulate.
What Is the DS-261?
A form whereby the state department can contact you during your green card application process, the DS-261, or ‘Online Choice of Address and Agent,’ is a streamlined form. The form is critical in ensuring the applicants are informed at every stage.
The Application Process
Step 1: Filing the Family Sponsorship Form
It starts off with the filing of the I-130 form, also called the family sponsorship form, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The sponsoring relative submits this form together with supporting documents. Usually, within two weeks of filing, USCIS returns a receipt notice. If all required information is included, the I-130 is usually approved or denied within 1-40 months, depending on the case: approved cases are forwarded to the NVC.
Read more: Social Security Update: In 28 days the SSI direct payment will be out for the month of January
Step 2: National Visa Center (NVC) Takes Over
As soon as the NVC gets a case from USCIS, it transmits the applicant a welcome letter notifying him about the case number, beneficiary ID number, and invoice number. These numbers are required for the online submission of forms and fees through the Consular Electronic Application Center.
In this case, immediately the NVC processes the cases for spouses of U.S. citizens. In contrast, cases for spouses of green card holders remain pending until the priority date shows “current” in the Visa Bulletin.
Update for Spouses of Green Card Holders:
As of March 2023, the Visa Bulletin indicates delays for F-2A family-based categories due to increased demand. Applicants should monitor their priority date and the Visa Bulletin for updates.
Filing the DS-261 Form
The DS-261 is a straightforward form that designates how the State Department should communicate with you. Filing it is free, but processing by the NVC may take up to three weeks.
Once the DS-261 is processed, applicants must pay two fees:
- Application Processing Fee: $325
- Financial Support Form Fee: $120
These payments, totaling $445, can be made online. Once processed, applicants can proceed to the DS-260 form.
Completing the DS-260 Form
The DS-260 is the main application for an immigrant visa. To begin, you’ll need your case number, beneficiary ID number, and invoice number.
Filing Tips:
- The form must be completed in English. Non-Roman characters must be transliterated.
- Provide accurate information about all children (biological, adopted, and stepchildren), regardless of whether they are immigrating.
- List all addresses where you have lived since age 16, even temporary ones.
- Double-check your entries, as the form cannot be corrected after submission. Errors can be addressed during the consular interview.
Once submitted, print the confirmation page to bring to your interview.
Submitting Supporting Documents
After submitting the DS-260, the NVC will request supporting documents, which vary depending on the applicant’s consulate. These documents may include:
From the Applicant:
- Proof of nationality (birth certificate, passport photo page)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificates
- Military records (if applicable)
From the Sponsor:
- Evidence of financial support (affidavit of support)
- Proof of domicile in the United States
Submit these documents according to the NVC’s instructions—whether digitally or physically.
Interview and final steps
The visa interview is scheduled at this point by the NVC or consulate after sending the documents. At this stage, the applicant must pay the $235 fee to USCIS to receive the physical green card.
Once approved, the visa stamp is placed inside the passport of the applicant, allowing him or her to enter the country. The green card normally arrives within 3 to 4 weeks of one’s arrival.
Key takeaways
The DS-260 and the DS-261 forms are important steps for applicants outside the U.S. in obtaining their green cards. Doing these steps correctly and providing correct data can make the journey of an applicant toward obtaining a green card more comfortable.
