Consular Processing

United States consulates play a crucial role in both non-immigrant and immigrant visa processing. Each consulate is part of the US Department of State, however the consulates often have their own specific requirements that are subject to change. The team at Baker Stirling can guide you through these requirements and help you to navigate around complex rules that govern both non-immigrant and immigrant visa processing.

Non-immigrant Visa Processing - Individuals seeking non-immigrant visas to visit the United States on a temporary basis must submit a Non-Immigrant Visa Application and then schedule an appointment for an interview at a US consulate. Any family members entering with a principal applicant must submit a separate application. Non-immigrant visa processing times vary significantly from consulate to consulate, and so as part of our service we will ensure that you are presented with alternative solutions if the processing times at your local consulate are not compatible with your proposed schedule.

Immigrant Visa Processing – Individuals seeking permanent residency in the United States will often have a choice of adjusting their status with the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) from within the United States, or alternatively processing their immigrant visa application with the US Department of State outside of the United States. All applicants must be interviewed by a consular officer, who is charged with ensuring that all necessary documentation has been provided, that there is a legal basis for the applicant to immigrate, and that there are no ineligibilities that would affect the issuance of the visa.

If you are residing in the UK, you can complete the visa application process through consular processing, which would be conducted at the United States Embassy in London. The team at Baker Stirling will work with you to ensure that you have all of the necessary documentation and that you are fully prepared for the questions that you may face at your interview so that you can avoid the many pitfalls that may otherwise obstruct your pathway to the US.