TIME FRAME

5-10+ Months 

1-12+ months 

PROCESS 

Submit Request with US Immigration Service 

Forward requested documents to US National Visa Center, including police certificates from home country 

Undergo medical examination / fingerprinting in home country

Proceed to interview at US Embassy in home country

Submit application materials directly to the US Immigration Service 

Undergo medical examination, fingerprinting, background check in USA 

Proceed to interview at local immigration office 

WHEN TYPICALLY UTILIZED 

When applicants are not residing in the USA 

When applicants are residing in the USA

MAJOR BENEFITS

May be quicker than adjustment of status 

No need to return home 

May obtain travel document and work authorization during pendency 

MAJOR DISADVANTAGES

Possible of denial at Embassy with limited appeal rights 

Possible long delays in processing at certain US Embassies 

Possible loss of file during transfer to Embassy 

Not eligible to obtain travel document/work authorization during pendency 

Possible long delay in FBI clearance