Immigrant Visas

Immigrant visas are issued to individuals traveling to the United States to take up permanent residency.  In most cases these individuals, referred to as “beneficiaries,” are able to apply for residency in the United States because of their relationship with a U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, or employer.  The citizen, resident, or employer who files the petition for the beneficiary is the “petitioner.”  The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) handles the processing and approval of petitions in the U.S., while US Embassies or Consulates abroad interview beneficiaries to ensure that they qualify for resident status.  If a beneficiary qualifies, the Consular Section issues the immigrant visa.