Immigrant Visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1)

1. Passport(s) valid for six months beyond the intended date of entry into the United States, unless longer validity is specifically requested by the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in your country.

2. Must be at least 18 years of age and have a residence (domicile) in the U.S. before you can sign the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864 or I-864EZ). This form is required for an immigrant visa for a spouse and other relatives of U.S. sponsors.

3. As a U.S. sponsor/petitioner, you must maintain your principal residence (also called domicile) in the United States, which is where you plan to live for the foreseeable future. Living in the United States is required for a U.S. sponsor to file the Affidavit of Support, with few exceptions. To learn more, review the Affidavit of Support (I-864 or I-864EZ) Instructions.

4. Filing the Petition

4.1. Petition for Alien Relative, Form I-130

5. U.S. Sponsor

6. Fees

6.1. Filing an immigrant Petition for Alien Relative, Form I-130 (this fee is charged by USCIS)

6.2. Processing an immigrant visa application, Form DS-260

6.3. Medical examination and required vaccinations

6.3.1. Other costs may include: translations; photocopying charges; fees for obtaining the documents you need for the immigrant visa application (such as passport, police certificates, birth certificates, etc.); and expenses for travel to the U.S. embassy or consulate for your visa interview. Costs vary from country to country and case to case.

7. Required Documentation

7.1. Affidavit of Support (I-864, I-864A, I-864 EZ, or I-864W, as appropriate) from the petitioner/U.S. sponsor.

7.2. Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application

7.3. Two (2) 2x2 photographs.

7.3.1. Photo Requirements

7.4. Completed Medical Examination Forms – These are provided by the panel physician after you have completed your medical examination and vaccinations

8. Visa Application

8.1. Once the NVC determines the file is complete with all the required documents, they schedule the applicant’s interview appointment. NVC then sends the file, containing the applicant’s petition and the documents listed above, to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where the applicant will be interviewed for a visa. The applicant, petitioner, attorney, and third-party agent, if applicable, will receive appointment emails, or letters (if no email address if available), containing the date and time of the applicant's visa interview along with instructions, including guidance for obtaining a medical examination.

8.2. Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws