Step 2: Apply for an Immigrant Visa

The first step of the immigrant visa process is the filing of the immigrant visa petition (I-130) by the petitioner. After the immigrant visa petition has been approved and (if applicable) the priority date is current, the second step is the submission of the immigrant visa application by the beneficiary of the petition.

If your I-130 peition was filed in Tokyo or Naha before August 15, 2011:

As soon as the petition is approved, or the priority date is current, we will ask you to prepare all of the necessary documents for your application. Read the instructions carefully and when all of the necessary documents have been gathered and forms completed, an appointment can be requested through this website. Click here for the document checklist and to request an interview appointment in Tokyo or Naha .

If the petition was filed in the U.S.:

If the petition was filed in the U.S. at Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the National Visa Center (NVC) will provide instructions directly to the petitioner and beneficiary. It is vital that NVC be provided with a correct mailing address and that all instructions be followed promptly. Failure to do so will result in delay in transferring the petition to us. Please see the Visa Processing at the National Visa Center page for more information.

If you filed a form DS-117 (returning resident) or I-360 (widow/ers) petition in Tokyo or Naha:

If returning resident status or widow/ers petition is approved, we will ask you to prepare all of the necessary documents for your application. Read the instructions carefully and when all of the necessary documents have been gathered and forms completed, an appointment can be requested through this website. Click here for the document checklist and to request an interview appointment in Tokyo or Naha .