Are you considering making the life-changing move from Canada to the United States? The immigration process can be complex, however with careful planning and the right information, it’s entirely possible to go through the journey without hiring an immigration lawyer. Below is the step-by-step process of our immigration to the United States. The You tube video may help you follow along as well.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before diving into the process, you need to ascertain your eligibility for various US visas or green cards. Eligibility can depend on factors like employment, family relationships, or special qualifications. Research and choose the most suitable category for your situation.
United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
https://www.uscis.gov
Step 2: Understand the US Visa Categories
The United States offers a wide range of visa categories, including family-sponsored, employment-based, and humanitarian visas. Each has its specific requirements and application procedures. Study these categories to find the one that aligns with your situation.
Step 3: Gather Essential Documents
Collect the necessary documents to support your application, such as birth certificates, passports, marriage certificates, and proof of qualifications. It’s crucial to have these documents organized and readily available. Having these documents at your fingertips will help with the application process and filling out the forms.
Step 4: Complete the Application Forms
The US immigration process involves filling out various forms depending on your chosen category. These forms can be lengthy and detailed, so take your time to complete them accurately. Double-check for any errors. THIS IS A STAGE WHERE WE REACHED OUT TO AN IMMIGRATION LAWYER TO CONFIRM THE FORMS, WE WERE FILLING OUT WERE CORRECT AND HAD A LIST OF QUESTIONS TO ASK. THE VIRTUAL APPOINTMENT COST WAS APPROIMATELY $140, FOR 30 MINUTES. VERY HELPFUL TO CONFIRM THE DIRECTION YOU ARE TAKING. However, it’s not necessary.
For our case we had to complete and submit the I-130 forms. Even though Brenda is a US Citizen and technically so are the boys who are under 18, aged 11 and 15 we still needed to complete I-130 applications for them as they had never lived in the US. There are rules in place for the different scenarios and circumstances based on what your specific situation might be. The I-130 forms are not difficult but as with any government forms there are always the questions that leave you puzzled and questioning what it is the government is truly after. So be diligent when completing the forms. We will be providing a step-by-step video on the I-130 forms and how to properly fill them out on a future video.
Forms will be requested for your application with the USCIS.
Step 5: Pay the Required Fees
There are processing fees associated with most US immigration applications. Ensure that you pay the correct fees and keep the receipts as proof of payment. No credit cards and must be in US domination. The fees paid for the I-130 forms were $535 for each application as of the spring of 2022.
Step 6: File Your Petition or Application
Submit your application or petition to the appropriate US government agency, such as USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) or the US Department of State. Follow their specific guidelines for submission.
Step 7: Wait for Approval
Now that your application is submitted you must be patient. If the USCIS requires more information they will email you and make a request for more information. Inquiring about the status of your application will not speed it up. Each type of application filed has a “time frame” for approval. If your application falls withing that time frame, then there is really no point in inquiring on the status of your application. It will not be sped up.
Step 8: Application is approved and forwarded to National Visa Center (NVC)
You’ve now been patient enough and have received the approval of your initial application. Once this application is approved the USCIS will forward your file to the National Visa Center (NVC) where a case will be created. Each application will have its own unique case created. Fees must be paid in advance before you can proceed with the next steps. Once the fees have been received your Case will then be active and available for you to proceed.
Step 9: NVC 12 – Step application process
Once your case is created and active you will receive emails from the NVC with links to your case where you will log in to your case portal. The NVC will provide a link to the 12-step process for the application. Jumping ahead will not work. Follow the steps. Be patient and diligent. The process for the NVC application is strictly online and is lengthy. Be sure to have all your required documents at hand. They will all need to be scanned and submitted as part of the application. Submit your application.
Step 10: Application is Submission
Again, patience is needed here. The NVC will let you know if more info or clarity is needed while the application is being processed. If more info is needed don’t procrastinate as it will just delay your application. Provide the info as soon as you can.
Step 11: NVC Approval -Register your interviews and medicals
The NVC has now approved your application. The NVC will now schedule a VISA interview date for your case. Be sure to follow the 12 steps process the NVC provided. Once the interview date is scheduled you must register the interview with the US consulate location. FYI you don’t get to choose where you want to go, the NVC chooses for you. Once your interview has been registered you will need to complete a medical. The results of the medical will be sent to the US Consulate prior to your scheduled interview.
U.S. Department of State
https://travel.state.gov/
Step 12: Attend your Interview
Depending on your visa category, you might need to attend biometrics appointments and interviews. Be prepared to answer questions about your background, intentions, and eligibility.
Step 13: Visa Issuance and Port of Entry
If your application is approved, you will receive a visa. Make sure you understand the conditions and expiration date of your visa. When you arrive in the US, you will need to go through customs at a designated port of entry.
Step 14: Fulfill Residency Requirements
Depending on your visa category, there might be specific requirements to maintain your status. Be sure to stay informed about these obligations.
Step 15: Pursue Citizenship
If your goal is to become a citizen of the United States then you will need to apply for that after a period while living as a green card holder. The I-130 once approved and you’ve received your immigrant visa will provide you with a green card
Pursuing immigration from Canada to the US on your own can be a challenging but is a rewarding experience. By following these steps and staying informed about the latest immigration policies and regulations, you can successfully navigate the process. Remember to consult official government websites and resources to stay up-to-date and ensure that your journey to the US is a smooth one.