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