FAQs
Updated: May 2, 2011
Please review our list of Frequently asked Questions Catagories:
- General Questions
- Immigrant Visas
- The Interview: Before the Interview
- The Interview: After the Interview
- Legal Permanent Residents/"GReen Card" Holders
General Questions
- Where may I process an immigrant visa (IV) in Turkey?
- What are your hours of operation?
- What is the Consular Section’s mailing address?
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How can I contact the Consular Section regarding an immigrant visa case?
How can I contact the Consular Section regarding an immigrant visa case?
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The Immigrant Visa Unit only accepts written electronic inquiries regarding specific cases on its site: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/iv-form2.html. Please include your case number, full name and exact date of birth of the principal applicant.
By U.S. law and regulation, we may only respond to inquiries from applicants, petitioners, members of Congress, and/or attorneys of record.
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The Immigrant Visa Unit only accepts written electronic inquiries regarding specific cases on its site: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/iv-form2.html. Please include your case number, full name and exact date of birth of the principal applicant.
- I want my case transferred to/from Ankara. How could I do this?
- Do I need English translations for my documents?
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Am I a U.S. citizen?
Am I a U.S. citizen?
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If one of your parents was a U.S. citizen when you were born abroad and he/she lived in the U.S. for a total of five years (two of which were after the age of 14) prior to your birth, you may qualify for U.S. citizenship. To find out if you qualify for U.S. citizenship, submit an application for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
If you were born in Turkey and are currently under the age of 18, your parents may apply at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, the U.S. Consulate in Adana, or with the U.S. Consular Agency in Izmir. Please visit this link: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/birth_abroad.html for further information on this issue.
If you were born in Iran and are currently under the age of 18, please consult with the U.S. Interests Section at the Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran. Their contact information can be found at: http://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home/reps/asia/virn/fosteh.html.
The U.S. Mission in Turkey does not process Consular Report of Birth Abroad applications for applicants born in Iran. This processing is done through the U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland. However, you may still submit your application to the U.S. Mission in Turkey and we will forward it to the authorized post for processing. Please understand that this may take more time than simply applying directly at the U.S. Interests Section at the Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran. If you still wish to file a Consular Report of Birth Abroad in Turkey, please follow think link for more information: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/iranian_born_children.html.
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If one of your parents was a U.S. citizen when you were born abroad and he/she lived in the U.S. for a total of five years (two of which were after the age of 14) prior to your birth, you may qualify for U.S. citizenship. To find out if you qualify for U.S. citizenship, submit an application for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
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Can the U.S. Embassy in Ankara help me with refugee resettlement?
Can the U.S. Embassy in Ankara help me with refugee resettlement?
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The U.S. Embassy in Ankara is not a designated post for refugee case processing. In Turkey, The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) (click on the hyperlink to be directed to its website) has responsibility for assistance to, and protection of, refugees. Please direct your questions to The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) office in Ankara.
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The U.S. Embassy in Ankara is not a designated post for refugee case processing. In Turkey, The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) (click on the hyperlink to be directed to its website) has responsibility for assistance to, and protection of, refugees. Please direct your questions to The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) office in Ankara.
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Should I hire a lawyer or visa consultant to help with my visa?
Should I hire a lawyer or visa consultant to help with my visa?
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This is a decision that only you can make. Note that the U.S. Embassy does not endorse any provider of such services, nor does it maintain a "special relationship" with any individual or business offering advice or assistance with the visa process. No one can guarantee the issuance of a visa to you. All U.S. Government forms are free and available on the internet.
Beware: some visa applicants lose money and/or are permanently barred from the United States as a result of misleading information and fraudulent applications provided by “visa consultants”.
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This is a decision that only you can make. Note that the U.S. Embassy does not endorse any provider of such services, nor does it maintain a "special relationship" with any individual or business offering advice or assistance with the visa process. No one can guarantee the issuance of a visa to you. All U.S. Government forms are free and available on the internet.
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May my Representative in Congress or my Senator send an inquiry about my case for me?
May my Representative in Congress or my Senator send an inquiry about my case for me?
- Every American citizen may write to Congress about any matter of concern. We reply to all congressional inquiries. Queries you send yourself will receive the same answers we send to members of Congress. As a matter of policy, we ask petitioners to limit inquiries to one channel of communication. If you choose to inquire through Congress, please do not send duplicate inquiries directly to the Embassy.
- Why won’t the Consular Section give me information about my relative’s case?
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I received an e-mail message regarding the Diversity Visa Lottery.....
I received an e-mail message regarding the Diversity Visa Lottery.....
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I received an e-mail message regarding the Diversity Visa Lottery Program. They requested payment for the application and told me that I would be banned from the DV entry for five years if I don’t pay. What should I do?
Diversity Visa (DV) notifications are not sent via e-mail. Any e-mail which states that you have won the lottery or a green card is not legitimate. Diversity Visa Lottery entrants can check the status of their online application free of charge by visiting our website: www.dvlottery.state.gov. If a third party made the application for you, you should ask for the entry number.
The only way to apply for the DV Lottery is directly through the official site: www.dvlottery.state.gov during the specified registration period.
Only internet sites ending in ".gov" are official U.S. government websites. If you receive any e-mail from an address that ends in “.com,” “.net,” “.org,” or anything other than “.gov,” please be aware that it is not a legitimate e-mail from the U.S. Embassy or the Department of State.
For example, Consular-Ankara@state.gov is a legitimate U.S. government address, however, Consular-Ankara@state.gov.com is not.
For more information, please visit our site at: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/diversity_visa_program.html.
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I received an e-mail message regarding the Diversity Visa Lottery Program. They requested payment for the application and told me that I would be banned from the DV entry for five years if I don’t pay. What should I do?
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Can I transmit citizenship to my spouse?
Can I transmit citizenship to my spouse?
- No, a United States citizen cannot transmit citizenship to a spouse. If your spouse wishes to relocate with you to the United States, he/she will require an immigrant visa. A Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) who is married to a U.S. citizen may apply to become a naturalized U.S. citizen after three years of residence in the United States. Questions concerning this process should be addressed to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) (click on hyperlink to be directed to their site).
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I have been living in Turkey for more than 6 months. How can I file an immigrant visa petition here?
I have been living in Turkey for more than 6 months. How can I file an immigrant visa petition here?
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Effective August 15, 2011, petitioners residing overseas will no longer be able to routinely file Form I-130, Petitions for Alien Relative, with U.S. embassies or consulates where U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) does not have a public counter presence. Starting August 15, 2011, petitioners residing overseas in a country without a USCIS public counter presence will be required to file their Forms I-130 by mail with the USCIS Chicago lockbox.
Please note: the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, Turkey does not host a USCIS public counter presence. Therefore, if you are a resident of Turkey or Iran and would like to petition for a an immigrant visa for your relative, you will have to submit your forms by mail to the USCIS Chicago lockbox.
USCIS Chicago Lockbox addresses for regular mail deliveries:
USCIS
P.O. Box 804625
Chicago, IL 60680-4107
USCIS Chicago Lockbox address for express mail and courier deliveries:
USCIS
Attn: I-130
131 South Dearborn-3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517
For additional information about how to file a Form I-130 with the USCIS Chicago lockbox, please see the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov or contact USCIS by phone at 1-800-375-5283.
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Effective August 15, 2011, petitioners residing overseas will no longer be able to routinely file Form I-130, Petitions for Alien Relative, with U.S. embassies or consulates where U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) does not have a public counter presence. Starting August 15, 2011, petitioners residing overseas in a country without a USCIS public counter presence will be required to file their Forms I-130 by mail with the USCIS Chicago lockbox.
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What if I cannot file an immigrant visa petition through the USCIS Chicago lockbox?
What if I cannot file an immigrant visa petition through the USCIS Chicago lockbox?
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Beginning August 15, 2011, petitioners who do not reside in a country with a USCIS public counter presence, such as Turkey and Iran, but who believe that their situation merits an exception, may request permission for our consular section to accept the filing. Each request for an exception will be evaluated individually.
If you wish to request permission to file your I-130 with our consular section, please send us an e-mail with a detailed explanation of your circumstances which would necessitate an exception. The Consular Section will relay this request to the relevant USCIS field office for consideration.
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Beginning August 15, 2011, petitioners who do not reside in a country with a USCIS public counter presence, such as Turkey and Iran, but who believe that their situation merits an exception, may request permission for our consular section to accept the filing. Each request for an exception will be evaluated individually.
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An immigrant visa petition has been filed on my behalf. I now have a child. Can he/she be added to my application?
An immigrant visa petition has been filed on my behalf. I now have a child. Can he/she be added to my application?
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If your baby's mother or father is an American citizen, the child may have a claim to U.S. citizenship. For more information, please visit the American Citizen Services (ACS) portion of our site through this link: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/birth_abroad.html.
If your child has no claim to U.S. citizenship, it may be possible for him/her to derive status from the immigrant visa petition filed on your behalf, or for your spouse to file an immigrant visa petition for him/her. You should notify the Immigrant Visa Unit by phone or e-mail about the birth of your child.
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If your baby's mother or father is an American citizen, the child may have a claim to U.S. citizenship. For more information, please visit the American Citizen Services (ACS) portion of our site through this link: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/birth_abroad.html.
- Does my child need to attend the immigrant visa interview?
- Can the petitioner and/or a legal representative attend the interview?
Immigrant Visas
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I want to work and live in the U.S. How can I become an immigrant?
I want to work and live in the U.S. How can I become an immigrant?
- Please visit State Department’s website through this link: http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_1326.html.
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My child was below 21 at the time of petition filing. He/She is now older than 21. Can he/she get a visa as well?
My child was below 21 at the time of petition filing. He/She is now older than 21. Can he/she get a visa as well?
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Your child may be able to receive a visa even after the age of 21 under the”Child Status Protection Act (CSPA)” (click on link for more information). We will determine whether or not the CSPA applies for your case during the interview.
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Your child may be able to receive a visa even after the age of 21 under the”Child Status Protection Act (CSPA)” (click on link for more information). We will determine whether or not the CSPA applies for your case during the interview.
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Why do you require police certificates for an immigrant visa application? I have not been in trouble with the law.
Why do you require police certificates for an immigrant visa application? I have not been in trouble with the law.
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U.S. regulations require each visa applicant aged 16 years or older to submit police certificates. The term “police certificate” refers to a statement from the law enforcement authorities of a country which certifies whether or not any criminal convictions have been ascribed to your name in that country.
Please Note: Police certificates from Iran are not required.
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U.S. regulations require each visa applicant aged 16 years or older to submit police certificates. The term “police certificate” refers to a statement from the law enforcement authorities of a country which certifies whether or not any criminal convictions have been ascribed to your name in that country.
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Where can I find information about obtaining police certificates?
Where can I find information about obtaining police certificates?
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Follow these steps:
1. Determine the countries from which a police certificate is required. An applicant must obtain a police certificate from the local police authority:
If you...
have been living in your country of nationality at their current residence for more than 6 months
And you...
you are 16 years old or older
If you...
lived in a different part of your country of nationality for more than 6 months
And you...
you were 16 years or older at that time
If you...
lived in a different country for more than 12 months
And you...
you were 16 years or older at that time
If you...
were arrested for any reason
And you...
you were any age at the time of the arrest
(Note: Present and former residents of the United States need NOT obtain any U.S. police certificates)
2. Contact the appropriate police authorities. Additional information on how to obtain a police certificate can be found on the Reciprocity by Country (click to follow the link) page.
Important Notice About Police Certificates Some countries require a specific Police Certificate: Request form to properly request and obtain Police Certificate(s). The Reciprocity by Country (click to follow the link) page indicates those countries. Please be advised, police certificates from certain countries are unavailable.
3. You must submit police certificates which:
- cover the entire period of the applicant’s residence in that area;
- have been issued by the appropriate police authority;
- and include all arrests, the reason(s) for the arrest(s), and the disposition of each recorded case.
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For how long is a police certificate valid?
For how long is a police certificate valid?
- For your country of residence, a police certificate is considered valid for 12 months from the date of issuance. Police certificates obtained from other countries where you previously resided are valid indefinitely, provided that you do not return to the country and reside for six months or more.
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When should I arrive for my visa interview?
When should I arrive for my visa interview?
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Applicants should arrive at the Embassy’s Consular Section at the time of their scheduled interview. Applicants who arrive late may miss their interview. Find out when your interview is scheduled at: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/interview_schedule.html.
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Applicants should arrive at the Embassy’s Consular Section at the time of their scheduled interview. Applicants who arrive late may miss their interview. Find out when your interview is scheduled at: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/interview_schedule.html.
- How long can I expect to be at the Embassy when I come for my immigrant visa interview?
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Can the interview date be expedited?
Can the interview date be expedited?
- No. Due to the limited availability of certain types of visas, some applicants have been waiting more than 12 years since their petitions were first filed. In the interest of fairness, the Consular Section cannot entertain requests to expedite interview appointments. However, we will attempt to accommodate requests in life or death situations.
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I need to change my appointment date. What should I do?
I need to change my appointment date. What should I do?
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You may request to change or postpone your interview date by contacting us by phone or e-mail. Be sure to include your full name and case number.
Your new interview date will be set according to the Consular Section’s schedule. Please note that in periods of high demand, this may be several months later. The Consular Section will send you a new appointment letter by e-mail as soon as your next interview date has been set. In the event that the new appointment letter does not reach you, you may check your new appointment date here: http://www.usemb-ankara.org.tr/consular/english/schedule_iv.html.
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You may request to change or postpone your interview date by contacting us by phone or e-mail. Be sure to include your full name and case number.
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Will I get my immigrant visa on the day of the interview?
Will I get my immigrant visa on the day of the interview?
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No. If all the paperwork and administrative processing are complete at the time of the interview, preparing the immigrant visa and packet will take at least 3-4 workdays. The visa will be returned to you by UPS Courier Service (follow link to their site). On the day of the visa interview you will be asked to make a payment to the UPS representative in the Consular Lobby and provide them a mailing address in Turkey.
If additional administrative processing is needed after the interview, you should check our website: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/immigrant_admin_processing.html for your case number/s. Once the number/s appears, then you may return to the Embassy for a second, and hopefully final, interview.
Please Note: K1 visa processing may take 7-10 days.
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No. If all the paperwork and administrative processing are complete at the time of the interview, preparing the immigrant visa and packet will take at least 3-4 workdays. The visa will be returned to you by UPS Courier Service (follow link to their site). On the day of the visa interview you will be asked to make a payment to the UPS representative in the Consular Lobby and provide them a mailing address in Turkey.
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How do I know when my priority date will be current?
How do I know when my priority date will be current?
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In most cases, the priority date is the date the petition was filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) (Click on this link to go to the USCIS website). Immediate Relative (IR and CR) and Fiancé (K-1) cases do not have priority dates since there are no numerical limits on these categories. Other categories have priority dates.
Current priority dates can be viewed here: http://travel.state.gov/visa/bulletin/bulletin_1360.html.
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In most cases, the priority date is the date the petition was filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) (Click on this link to go to the USCIS website). Immediate Relative (IR and CR) and Fiancé (K-1) cases do not have priority dates since there are no numerical limits on these categories. Other categories have priority dates.
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What is an Affidavit of Support?
What is an Affidavit of Support?
- The Affidavit of Support is a contract between a sponsor and the applicant that is required for some immigrant visas. The sponsor agrees to provide financial support for the applicant until the applicant becomes an American citizen or can be credited with 40 quarters (ten years or more) of work. The sponsor must show that he/she has income equal to or greater than 125 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (PDF 6KB) (click on link to access Guidelines) for his/her household size. Depending on the type of visa, either the Form I-864 (PDF 435KB)or I-134 (PDF 435KB)(click on links to access forms) will be required for this purpose.
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My petitioner is currently retired or unemployed. Does he/she still need to submit an Affidavit of Support?
My petitioner is currently retired or unemployed. Does he/she still need to submit an Affidavit of Support?
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Yes. All petitioners must accept legal responsibility for financially supporting the family members for which they petition.
In the case that the petitioner’s financial resources are insufficient to meet the necessary legal level to sponsor their beneficiary or beneficiaries, they will need to find one or more person/s willing to take on the same legal responsibility and file an affidavit of support for the beneficiary or beneficiaries in question. If an additional sponsor is a qualifying household member of the petitioner (a “co-sponsor”), then they must provide an I-864A Form(PDF 955KB)(click on link to access form) as well as the necessary supporting documentation. In the case that the additional sponsor in question is not a qualified household member (a “joint sponsor”), then he/she must provide an I-864 Form (PDF 435KB) (click on link to access form) and the necessary supporting documentation.
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Yes. All petitioners must accept legal responsibility for financially supporting the family members for which they petition.
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Am I able to act as a sponsor/co-sponsor/joint sponsor for a petition?
Am I able to act as a sponsor/co-sponsor/joint sponsor for a petition?
- According to U.S. law, a sponsor must be at least 18 years old and either an American citizen or a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR). The sponsor must also have a domicile (residence) in the United States. Petitioners living abroad may still be eligible to be a sponsor if they can show that their residence abroad is temporary, and that they have maintained a domicile in the United States. For more information about domicile, you may follow this link: http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/info/info_3183.html#_Domicile.
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Who does not require an I-864 or I-134?
Who does not require an I-864 or I-134?
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- Biological (natural-born) children of American citizens (IR-2 immigrant visa category) who will enter the United States before the age of eighteen will by law automatically acquire American citizenship.
- Orphans adopted by an American citizen abroad (IR-3 immigrant visa category) where the adoption is full and final.
- Self-petitioning widows or widowers of American citizens (IW immigrant visa category).
- Immigrants who have already worked or can be credited with 40 qualifying quarters of work as defined in title II of the Social Security Act.
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- Biological (natural-born) children of American citizens (IR-2 immigrant visa category) who will enter the United States before the age of eighteen will by law automatically acquire American citizenship.
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I don’t understand the concept of domicile.
I don’t understand the concept of domicile.
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Please follow this link: http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/info/info_3183.html#_Domicile for further information about what constitutes a domicile and how domicile requirements can affect immigrant visa applications.
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Please follow this link: http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/info/info_3183.html#_Domicile for further information about what constitutes a domicile and how domicile requirements can affect immigrant visa applications.
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I received a letter/e-mail from the Embassy’s Consular Section indicating that my case has “retrogressed”...
I received a letter/e-mail from the Embassy’s Consular Section indicating that my case has “retrogressed”...
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I received a letter/e-mail from the Embassy’s Consular Section indicating that my case has “retrogressed” and that my priority date is no longer current. What should I do?
Retrogression occurs only when the State Department has pushed back the monthly cutoff of priority dates (click on link for more information on priority dates) because the current demand has exceeded the visa numbers available for issuance.
Understandably, all applicants wish to obtain an immigrant visa as soon as possible, but U.S. immigration law requires that immigrant visa numbers be made available strictly in order of priority date. The numerical limitation cannot be waived, regardless of the circumstances.
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I received a letter/e-mail from the Embassy’s Consular Section indicating that my case has “retrogressed” and that my priority date is no longer current. What should I do?
The Interview: Before the Interview
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What is my interview date?
What is my interview date?
- Please follow this link: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/interview_schedule.html to look up your interview date.
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I have not received my appointment packet yet. What documents do I need to send you?
I have not received my appointment packet yet. What documents do I need to send you?
- Please follow this link: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/visa_forms.html and download the instructions for your visa category.
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The National Visa Center (NVC) scheduled my interview, but my husband/wife/child’s file is....
The National Visa Center (NVC) scheduled my interview, but my husband/wife/child’s file is....
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The National Visa Center (NVC) scheduled my interview, but my husband/wife/child’s file is not ready yet. How can we get the same appointment date?
Please contact us at: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/visa_forms.html.
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The National Visa Center (NVC) scheduled my interview, but my husband/wife/child’s file is not ready yet. How can we get the same appointment date?
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How do I arrange the medical exam?
How do I arrange the medical exam?
- For instructions please visit our site at: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/medical_requirements.html.
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I received a letter from The National Visa Center (NVC) stating that my fiancé visa case has been sent to the Embassy’s Consular....
I received a letter from The National Visa Center (NVC) stating that my fiancé visa case has been sent to the Embassy’s Consular....
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I received a letter from The National Visa Center (NVC) stating that my fiancé visa case has been sent to the Embassy’s Consular Section. When will my interview appointment be?
Once the Embassy’s Consular Section physically receives the file, instructions will be e-mailed to you. Once all necessary documents have been submitted, the Consular Section will schedule the interview and notify you by e-mail. Interviews are typically scheduled 8-10 weeks in advance.
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I received a letter from The National Visa Center (NVC) stating that my fiancé visa case has been sent to the Embassy’s Consular Section. When will my interview appointment be?
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Where can I pay the required visa application fee?
Where can I pay the required visa application fee?
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Most applicants pay this fee directly to the National Visa Center (NVC) before their case is transferred to Ankara. Please follow this link: http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/nvc/nvc_1335.html to see the payment options available through the NVC. If the applicant has not yet paid this fee by the day of the interview, he/she must do so with the Consular Section cashier prior to interviewing.
All K visa applicants must pay a non-refundable application fee at a branch of Turk Ekonomi Bankasi (TEB) prior to the visa interview. The fee can be paid at any TEB branch in Turkey.
Please note that fees are subject to change. Follow this link: http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/fees/fees_1341.html for updated information about application fees.
Please note that these fees are non-refundable. Additionally, if you have already paid the IV application fee to the National Visa Center (NVC), you will not have to pay it again at your interview.
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Most applicants pay this fee directly to the National Visa Center (NVC) before their case is transferred to Ankara. Please follow this link: http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/nvc/nvc_1335.html to see the payment options available through the NVC. If the applicant has not yet paid this fee by the day of the interview, he/she must do so with the Consular Section cashier prior to interviewing.
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I did not receive the visa instruction package. How can I get another sent to me?
I did not receive the visa instruction package. How can I get another sent to me?
- All forms and instruction packets can be found on our site at: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/visa_forms.html.
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Do dependent children need to receive an immigrant visa at the same time as the principal beneficiary?
Do dependent children need to receive an immigrant visa at the same time as the principal beneficiary?
- No. Eligible dependent children can receive immigrant visas at the same time as the principal beneficiary or any time thereafter, provided that the dependent child is still unmarried and under 21 years of age at the time of the visa issuance to that principal beneficiary. Please be advised, you must ensure that the dependent child’s file remains active after the principal beneficiary’s issuance by contacting our office at least once every year.
- As the petitioner do I have to be present at the interview?
- How can I withdraw a petition?
The Interview: After the Interview
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Why are immigrant visa cases refused?
Why are immigrant visa cases refused?
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In order to protect the health, welfare, and security of the United States, certain applicants are ineligible for immigrant visas. There are several ineligibilities written into U.S. Immigration Laws, including: infection from certain communicable diseases; possessing a dangerous mental disorder; having committed serious criminal acts; being a terrorist; or having used illegal means to enter or remain in the U.S. beyond the permitted period of time. If you are found to have one of these ineligibilities, the Consular Section will advise you whether a waiver of the ineligibility is possible. For more detailed information about ineligibilities, please see: http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/ineligibilities/ineligibilities_1364.html.
In addition, former exchange visitors may be subject to the two-year foreign residence requirement of Section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Your J1 visa will indicate whether or not you are subject to this requirement. Exchange visitors who are subject to, but do not wish to comply with, the two-year home country residence requirement may apply for a waiver of the requirement. For more information please visit the Department of State's website at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/ineligibilities/ineligibilities_1364.html.
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In order to protect the health, welfare, and security of the United States, certain applicants are ineligible for immigrant visas. There are several ineligibilities written into U.S. Immigration Laws, including: infection from certain communicable diseases; possessing a dangerous mental disorder; having committed serious criminal acts; being a terrorist; or having used illegal means to enter or remain in the U.S. beyond the permitted period of time. If you are found to have one of these ineligibilities, the Consular Section will advise you whether a waiver of the ineligibility is possible. For more detailed information about ineligibilities, please see: http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/ineligibilities/ineligibilities_1364.html.
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What if my immigrant visa is refused under section 221(g)?
What if my immigrant visa is refused under section 221(g)?
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If your visa is refused under the provisions of Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for lack of documentation, you will have twelve months to present the missing documents. Thereafter the process may be terminated and the petition returned to the U.S.
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If your visa is refused under the provisions of Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for lack of documentation, you will have twelve months to present the missing documents. Thereafter the process may be terminated and the petition returned to the U.S.
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Why is my administrative processing taking so long?
Why is my administrative processing taking so long?
- Many applicants need administrative processing before a visa can be processed to conclusion. The process is usually quick, but at times may take months. We cannot expedite this process, nor can we advise how long it will take. As soon as the process is completed, your case number will be announced on: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/immigrant_admin_processing.html.
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At my Diversity Visa interview, I was told my application was denied......
At my Diversity Visa interview, I was told my application was denied......
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At my Diversity Visa interview, I was told my application was denied. How do I appeal that decision or have it reconsidered?
You are welcome to provide the documents to overcome your refusal up until the end of fiscal year for which you won the lottery. If your situation has not changed since your interview, the decision should remain the same.
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At my Diversity Visa interview, I was told my application was denied. How do I appeal that decision or have it reconsidered?
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My flight to the U.S. leaves the day after the interview. How quickly can I get my visa?
My flight to the U.S. leaves the day after the interview. How quickly can I get my visa?
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The Consular Section strongly encourages you Not to buy your tickets or make travel arrangements until after your visa is approved. The Consular Section cannot guarantee that your visa will be approved and cannot be responsible for the consequences of your decision to buy a non-refundable plane ticket.
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The Consular Section strongly encourages you Not to buy your tickets or make travel arrangements until after your visa is approved. The Consular Section cannot guarantee that your visa will be approved and cannot be responsible for the consequences of your decision to buy a non-refundable plane ticket.
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My case is pending because the Consular Officer asked for more documents. Where and when...
My case is pending because the Consular Officer asked for more documents. Where and when...
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My case is pending because the Consular Officer asked for more documents. When and where can I submit these documents? If I cannot come personally, is it possible for my relative or someone else to submit documents on my behalf?
If your case is pending because the Consular Officer requested that you provide further information/documents, you should follow the instructions on the blue or green refusal sheet given to you after the interview and provide your documents as indicated on that refusal sheet.
Please note that the instructions on the blue or green sheets are the only method by which the Consular Section can accept further documentation. The Consular Section cannot accept documents provided by other means and can only accept documents from a person listed on the petition. In addition, the Consular Section does not accept immigrant visa documents at the American Citizen Services (ACS) office.
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My case is pending because the Consular Officer asked for more documents. When and where can I submit these documents? If I cannot come personally, is it possible for my relative or someone else to submit documents on my behalf?
- What if I lost my blue/green refusal sheet?
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Can I talk to the interviewing officer? If not, why?
Can I talk to the interviewing officer? If not, why?
- Aside from the original interview, interviewing officers are not available to talk to applicants or petitioners about individual cases. The Embassy makes every effort to ensure that applicants and petitioners can voice their concerns contacting us by phone or e-mail. The Immigrant Visa Unit reads and responds to every piece of correspondence it receives.
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I was told that I have a ‘public charge’ ineligibility, but my petitioner/cosponsor’s income is...
I was told that I have a ‘public charge’ ineligibility, but my petitioner/cosponsor’s income is...
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I was told that I have a ‘public charge’ ineligibility, but my petitioner/cosponsor’s income is above the level specified in the poverty guidelines. Why am I ineligible?
Consular officers are mandated by law to consider the totality of circumstances when determining whether an applicant has a public charge ineligibility (click on this link for more information). Income is one of the many criteria that officers must review; others include the applicant’s health, age, education level, work experience, language ability, and family situation. It is not uncommon for applicants to be found ineligible even when their petitioner’s income is above the level specified in the poverty guidelines. To overcome this ineligibility, applicants must either find a credible cosponsor with sufficient additional income and assets, or prove that their financial situation has changed since the interview.
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I was told that I have a ‘public charge’ ineligibility, but my petitioner/cosponsor’s income is above the level specified in the poverty guidelines. Why am I ineligible?
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What is a waiver, why do I need one, and how do I apply for one?
What is a waiver, why do I need one, and how do I apply for one?
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A waiver is a special authorization granted under U.S. law by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) (click on the link to access their site) to waive an ineligibility that would otherwise prevent a beneficiary from immigrating to the United States. If you have an ineligibility, the Consular Section will let you know whether a waiver is available. If so, you will be told how to apply.
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A waiver is a special authorization granted under U.S. law by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) (click on the link to access their site) to waive an ineligibility that would otherwise prevent a beneficiary from immigrating to the United States. If you have an ineligibility, the Consular Section will let you know whether a waiver is available. If so, you will be told how to apply.
- I am the principal visa applicant. Can my family members travel to the U.S. before me?
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I opened my visa packet. What should I do?
I opened my visa packet. What should I do?
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Please bring your visa packet and passport (with the visa in it) back to our office between 08:30AM and 5:00PM, Monday through Friday, or send it by UPS Courier Service (click on link to be directed to their site).
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Please bring your visa packet and passport (with the visa in it) back to our office between 08:30AM and 5:00PM, Monday through Friday, or send it by UPS Courier Service (click on link to be directed to their site).
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What happens if I can’t travel within the validity of my visa?
What happens if I can’t travel within the validity of my visa?
- Immigrant and fiancé visas cannot be extended. If the visa is not used within its period of validity, you must bring your passport and the visa packet to our office for cancellation, along with a statement explaining the reasons why the visa was not used. A new visa thereafter is possible, though not certain. Payment of additional fees may be required.
- What should I do if I notice that my visa has an error or incorrect information on it?
- What should I do if my visa was lost or stolen?
Legal Permanent Residents/"Green Card" Holders
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What are my rights and responsibilities as a green card holder?
What are my rights and responsibilities as a green card holder?
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Please click here to learn your rights and responsibilities as a green card holder.
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Please click here to learn your rights and responsibilities as a green card holder.
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How long can I remain outside the United States after receiving my I-551 Permanent Resident.....
How long can I remain outside the United States after receiving my I-551 Permanent Resident.....
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How long can I remain outside the United States after receiving my I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”)?
Permanent residents are free to travel outside the United States, and temporary or brief travel usually does not affect your permanent resident status. If it is determined, however, that you did not intend to make the United States your permanent home, you will be found to have abandoned your permanent resident status. Generally, absences from the United States of more than a year are considered abandonment of permanent residence. Abandonment may be found to occur on trips of less than a year where it is believed you did not intend to make the United States your permanent residence. While brief trips abroad generally are not problematic, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) (click on link to access their site) officer may consider criteria such as whether your intention was to visit abroad only temporarily, whether you maintained U.S. family and community ties, maintained U.S employment, filed U.S. income taxes as a resident, or otherwise established your intention to return to the United States as your permanent home. Other factors that may be considered include whether you maintained a U.S. mailing address, kept U.S. bank accounts and a valid U.S. driver’s license, continued to own property and/or run a business in the United States, or any other evidence that supports the temporary nature of your absence. The Consular Section emphasizes that the final determination on your eligibility for admission into the United States rests with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the port of entry.
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How long can I remain outside the United States after receiving my I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”)?
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What if I am a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) and want to stay outside the United States for more than one year?
What if I am a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) and want to stay outside the United States for more than one year?
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If you plan on being absent from the United States for longer than a year, it is advisable to first apply for a re-entry permit using an I-131 Form (PDF 113KB) (click on link to access the form). This allows a permanent or conditional permanent resident to apply for admission into the United States during the permit’s validity without the need to obtain a transportation letter from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Please note that it does not guarantee entry into the United States upon your return, as you must first be determined to be admissible; however, it will assist you in establishing your intention to permanently reside in the United States.
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If you plan on being absent from the United States for longer than a year, it is advisable to first apply for a re-entry permit using an I-131 Form (PDF 113KB) (click on link to access the form). This allows a permanent or conditional permanent resident to apply for admission into the United States during the permit’s validity without the need to obtain a transportation letter from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. Please note that it does not guarantee entry into the United States upon your return, as you must first be determined to be admissible; however, it will assist you in establishing your intention to permanently reside in the United States.
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I am currently in Turkey and my re-entry permit is due to expire; what do I do?
I am currently in Turkey and my re-entry permit is due to expire; what do I do?
- You should contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Athens, Greece. For further information, please visit: http://athens.usembassy.gov/uscis_immigration.html.
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What if I have been outside the United States for more than one year and do not have a re-entry permit...
What if I have been outside the United States for more than one year and do not have a re-entry permit...
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What if I have been outside the United States for more than one year and do not have a re-entry permit, but want to return to live in the U.S.? What if my re-entry permit expired while I’ve been abroad?
If you are not in possession of a valid re-entry permit, or your re-entry permit has expired, you will require a new immigrant visa to re-enter the United States in order to resume your residence there.
A Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) whose status has lapsed due to a failure to maintain a residence in the United States may in certain circumstances be granted a Returning Residency Visa (SB1) allowing readmission.
For information about the requirements and application process for a Returning Residency Visa please visit the State Department website at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/info/info_1333.html.
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What if I have been outside the United States for more than one year and do not have a re-entry permit, but want to return to live in the U.S.? What if my re-entry permit expired while I’ve been abroad?
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I have an I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”) and recently married a Turkish...
I have an I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”) and recently married a Turkish...
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I have an I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”) and recently married a Turkish citizen in Turkey. How can I take her/him to the U.S. with me?
You need to file an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative Form for your spouse through a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in the U.S. For instructions please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-130instr.pdf. (PDF 63KB)
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I have an I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”) and recently married a Turkish citizen in Turkey. How can I take her/him to the U.S. with me?
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My spouse was granted conditional resident status. How do we make it permanent?
My spouse was granted conditional resident status. How do we make it permanent?
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You and your spouse are required to file a petition on an I-751 Form (click on link to access form), with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to have the conditional resident status removed. The petition must be filed 90 days before the second anniversary of your husband/wife being admitted into the United States. For more information, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-751instr.pdf. (PDF 55KB)
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You and your spouse are required to file a petition on an I-751 Form (click on link to access form), with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to have the conditional resident status removed. The petition must be filed 90 days before the second anniversary of your husband/wife being admitted into the United States. For more information, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-751instr.pdf. (PDF 55KB)
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I was granted conditional resident status, but never filed a petition to have the conditional status...
I was granted conditional resident status, but never filed a petition to have the conditional status...
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I was granted conditional resident status, but never filed a petition to have the conditional status removed. I've been outside the United States for longer than 12 months, how can I return?
Conditional residents of the United States who failed to file an application to have their conditional resident status removed are required to re-qualify for immigrant status by having their U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) spouse file a new immigrant visa petition, using the I-130 (PDF 4KB) Petition for Alien Relative Form (click on link to access form) on their behalf.
If your petitioning American Citizen spouse resides in Turkey, please read instructions at: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/media/pdfs/i_130_instructions.pdf.(PDF 359KB)
For filing instructions for any other type of petitioner, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website at: http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-130instr.pdf.(PDF 4KB)
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I was granted conditional resident status, but never filed a petition to have the conditional status removed. I've been outside the United States for longer than 12 months, how can I return?
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I've lost my I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as “green card”); what do I do?
I've lost my I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as “green card”); what do I do?
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Please contact us at: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/iv-form2.html.
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I'm a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) of the United States. I've recently given birth...
I'm a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) of the United States. I've recently given birth...
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I'm a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) of the United States. I've recently given birth to a child. What type of documents does he/she require to return with me to the United States?
Your child will require his or her own passport, if he/she is not included on the accompanying parent's passport, and his/her birth certificate listing both parents' names. In the event that one parent is a citizen of the United States, the foregoing information should be disregarded and an application must be made through our American Citizen Services (ACS) Unit to clarify whether U.S. citizenship is transferable to your child or not. Please contact the ACS Unit through: http://turkey.usembassy.gov/acs-form5.html.
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I'm a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) of the United States. I've recently given birth to a child. What type of documents does he/she require to return with me to the United States?
- Will I be eligible to work upon entering the United States on an Immigrant Visa?
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How do I get a Social Security number?
How do I get a Social Security number?
- By law, each immigrant or refugee admitted to the United States must obtain a Social Security number. Social Security numbers are required to work, open a bank account, pay taxes in the U.S., as well as for many other purposes. You may contact the local Social Security office in the area where you reside in the United States. For further information please visit their website at: www.ssa.gov.
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How can I abandon my Legal Permanent Resident status?
How can I abandon my Legal Permanent Resident status?
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Please keep your I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”), even after it expires, until you wish to apply for a non-immigrant visa. In order to formally abandon your Legal Permanent Resident status in the U.S., you must personally present the following documents:
- Form I-407 (PDF 623KB)(click on link to access form)
- Your original I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”)
- The original re-entry permit (if available)
- Your passport
Abandoning your I-551 Permanent Resident Card and LPR status does not affect your ability to apply to immigrate to the United States at some future time. However, you will have to begin the process anew and apply through the usual application process if you decide to reapply.
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Please keep your I-551 Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”), even after it expires, until you wish to apply for a non-immigrant visa. In order to formally abandon your Legal Permanent Resident status in the U.S., you must personally present the following documents:
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How do I become a U.S. citizen?
How do I become a U.S. citizen?
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An immigrant can become a United States citizen through naturalization by living in the U.S. for a specified period (usually five years, three years if married to a U.S. citizen) and passing a naturalization examination.
Those who have served in the U.S. military or are the immediate dependents of a non-citizen killed while serving in the U.S. military may qualify for citizenship.
For details please click here to visit U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for more detailed information.
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An immigrant can become a United States citizen through naturalization by living in the U.S. for a specified period (usually five years, three years if married to a U.S. citizen) and passing a naturalization examination.
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