visa Processing times

Processing times for U.S. visas can vary based on the specific visa category, individual circumstances, and the workload of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the U.S. Department of State. Below is an overview of various visa types, their descriptions, and general processing timeframes:

1. Naturalization Applications (Form N-400):

• Description: For lawful permanent residents applying to become U.S. citizens.

• Processing Time: Typically ranges from 12 to 18 months, depending on the applicant's location and USCIS workload.

2. Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600):

• Description: For individuals who automatically acquired or derived U.S. citizenship to obtain official documentation.

• Processing Time: Generally takes between 5 to 10 months.

3. Dual Citizenship & Renunciation Guidance:

• Description: Assistance with obtaining or renouncing dual citizenship.

• Processing Time: Varies based on individual circumstances and the countries involved.

4. Marriage Green Cards:

• Description: For spouses of U.S. citizens or permanent residents to obtain lawful permanent residency.

• Processing Time: Typically ranges from 10 to 13 months for spouses of U.S. citizens and 29 to 38 months for spouses of permanent residents.

5. Fiancé(e) Visas (K-1):

• Description: Allows foreign fiancés of U.S. citizens to enter the U.S. to marry within 90 days.

• Processing Time: Approximately 6 to 9 months.

6. Family Sponsorship (Parent, Child, Sibling):

• Description: For U.S. citizens and permanent residents to sponsor eligible family members.

• Processing Time: Varies widely based on the relationship and country of origin; can range from 1 year to over 10 years.

7. Adjustment of Status & Consular Processing:

• Description: Processes for obtaining a green card either within the U.S. (Adjustment of Status) or through a U.S. consulate abroad (Consular Processing).

• Processing Time: Adjustment of Status typically takes 8 to 14 months; Consular Processing ranges from 6 to 12 months.

8. H-1B Visas:

• Description: For foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring specialized knowledge.

• Processing Time: Regular processing can take 3 to 6 months; premium processing (15 calendar days) is available for an additional fee.

9. EB-1, EB-2, EB-3 Green Cards:

• Description: Employment-based green cards for priority workers (EB-1), professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability (EB-2), and skilled workers or professionals (EB-3).

• Processing Time: Varies based on category and country of origin; can range from 1 to several years.

10. L-1 Visas:

• Description: For intra-company transferees in managerial positions or with specialized knowledge.

• Processing Time: Typically 1 to 5 months; premium processing is available.

11. O-1 & TN Visas:

• Description: O-1 is for individuals with extraordinary ability; TN is for Canadian and Mexican professionals under NAFTA.

• Processing Time: O-1 visas usually take 2 to 3 months; TN visas can often be processed in a matter of weeks.

12. PERM Labor Certification & Employer Sponsorship:

• Description: A process for employers to certify that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact U.S. workers.

• Processing Time: PERM processing typically takes 6 to 12 months.

13. J-1 Student Visas:

• Description: For individuals approved to participate in work-and study-based exchange visitor programs.

• Processing Time: Varies depending on the program and embassy or consulate workload.

14. Asylum & Refugee Applications:

• Description: For individuals seeking protection due to persecution or fear of persecution.

• Processing Time: Initial interviews are typically scheduled within 45 days of application; however, the entire process can take several months to years.

15. U Visas & T Visas:

• Description: U visas are for victims of certain crimes; T visas are for victims of human trafficking.

• Processing Time: U visa processing can take several years due to annual caps; T visas typically take 6 to 12 months.

16. Temporary Protected Status (TPS):

• Description: Provides temporary protection to individuals from designated countries experiencing ongoing conflict or disaster.

• Processing Time: Generally takes 6 to 8 months.

17. DACA Applications & Renewals:

• Description: For individuals who came to the U.S. as children and meet specific guidelines.

• Processing Time: Initial applications and renewals typically take 6 to 12 months.