If My Visa Is Approved, How Long Does It Take to Get My Passport Back in NC? 2024

Applying for a visa can be one of the most difficult and drawn-out processes you will ever endure. Getting the opportunity to work or live in another country can be a continuously rewarding experience.

However, to accomplish this, you must first go through the application process. If you are successful and your visa is approved, you may also be wondering, “If my visa is approved, how long does it take to get my passport back in NC?” It largely depends on your case.

How Long Does It Take to Get My Passport Back If My Visa Is Approved?

There is no easy answer. Every visa application is different. Once your application is approved by the proper authorities, the officer assigned to your case will still need to keep your documents, including your passport, for an additional period of time while they complete the administrative processing. The entire process can take a number of weeks or even longer if complications arise. You will receive your passport and your visa packet once they are ready.

The Visa Application Process

Applying for a visa is a rigorous, highly involved process that requires patience, attention to detail, and determination. If you want to be sure that your application is filled out correctly without missing any deadlines, you may want to retain the services of an immigration lawyer who can help you fill out the forms and collect supporting documentation. Here are some of the steps in the visa application process that you may want to fully understand before you start:

• Submit Your Petition: The very first step in obtaining a visa is filing the proper paperwork to submit your petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Before your case can proceed, USCIS has to approve it.
• Processing: Once your application has been approved, it moves to National Visa Center (NVC) processing. The NVC will create a case for you in its system and send you a welcome letter. This contains information you can use to check the status of your application in the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).
• Pay the Fees: There are going to be some important fees that you will need to pay to move the process along. There’s the immigrant visa application processing fee and the affidavit of support fee. Both will require payment from a U.S. bank. You will need to allow ten days for the NVC to process these payments before the application can continue.
• Affidavit of Support: This important document will be signed by an individual who agrees to accept financial responsibility for the applicant. The individual is often referred to as a “sponsor.” This financial responsibility lasts until the applicant succeeds in becoming a naturalized citizen.
• Online Application: Once your payments have been processed, you and every member of your family who is also seeking a visa must complete the Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration form. Submitting this form does not start the application. Only an interview with a U.S. consular officer can officially begin the process. Be sure to upload any relevant documents.
• Interview: On the day of your interview, you will go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with your printed application and be interviewed by a consular officer. They will determine whether you are eligible for an immigrant visa.

FAQs

Q: How Long Does It Take to Receive a Passport Once It’s Been Approved?

A: The amount of time it takes to receive your passport once your application has been approved depends largely on the complexity of your case. Generally, a passport is returned within four to six weeks if your case is routine. Expedited processing may take two to three weeks, but you will have to pay an additional fee. If something is holding up your application, you may want to reach out to an immigration lawyer for assistance.

Q: How Do I Track My Passport After My U.S. Visa Is Approved?

A: If you want to track your passport after your U.S. visa has been approved, you can access your application status online through the U.S. Department of State website using your passport number. You can also contact the courier service directly if it will be delivering your passport or visa packet. You will need to know your passport number to track it.

Q: What Should I Do If I Haven’t Received My Passport Yet?

A: If it has been two weeks and you still have not yet received your passport, you may want to contact the National Passport Information Center to check on its status and consider filing a DS-86 form, which states that you are reporting a missing passport. Reaching out to the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) may also be a valid option.

Q: Can You Check Your U.S. Passport Status Online?

A: Yes, you can check your U.S. passport status online. It is recommended that you visit the State Department’s website to check on the status of your passport at least 14 days after your application. If you are concerned that something may have happened to your passport and somebody may be trying to take advantage of you, reach out to an immigration lawyer for help. They can explore your legal options.

Reach Out to an Experienced Immigration Lawyer Today

Filing for a visa can be a difficult, prolonged experience, but it is ultimately rewarding. When your application is approved, but you do not receive your passport or other documents back promptly, it can be frustrating. That’s why it is important to have an immigration lawyer by your side throughout this entire process. They can provide you with peace and confidence that your case is being handled professionally.

Butler, Quinn & Hochman, PLLC, understands how complex and impersonal this process can be, and we are prepared to help you handle it. We can check in on your passport status on your behalf, assist with the application process, and keep you from being taken advantage of. Contact us to schedule a consultation as soon as you can.