{"$schema":"https://theacompany.ai/website/page.schema.json","page":{"id":"visa-us-eb-2-xk","kind":"service","lang":"en","path":"/visa/usa/eb/eb-2/kosovo","index":true,"for":{"service":"visa","country":"us","type":"eb-2","from":"xk"},"visa":{"name":"U.S. visa for advanced degree professionals (EB-2)","country":"United States","from":"Kosovo"},"embassy":{"name":"U.S. Embassy Pristina","city":"Pristina","place":"Pristina, Kosovo"},"translations":{"sq":"/al/viza/amerikane/eb/eb-2/kosove"}},"seo":{"title":"U.S. EB-2 visa for advanced degree professionals in Kosovo","description":"Your employer gets the prevailing wage determination, your employer gets the permanent labor certification, your employer files the I-140 petition, the National Visa Center takes your case, pay the NVC fees, pay the U.S. visa fee, fill in the DS-260 application, prepare the documents, scan your documents, book the visa appointment, submit the documents, register online, have the medical exam, send the documents the week before the interview, attend the interview, the consular officer decides on your visa, get your passport, pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee, travel before the visa expires.","image":"/website/social/en/eb-2-kosovo.jpg"},"official_answers":{"flag-dol-gov-programs-perm-b18687":{"name":"Permanent Labor Certification (PERM)","site":"flag.dol.gov","href":"http://flag.dol.gov/programs/perm","read":"2026-10-28","info":{"step.wage":{"quote":"Step 2:Employer must request and receive a valid Prevailing Wage Determination from the NPWC."}}},"www-dol-gov-agencies-eta-foreign-labor-programs-pe-63dd39":{"name":"Permanent Labor Certification","site":"www.dol.gov","href":"https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/foreign-labor/programs/permanent","read":"2026-10-28","info":{"step.perm":{"quote":"In most instances, before the U.S. employer can submit an immigration petition to the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)(link is external), the employer must obtain a certified labor certification application from the DOL's Employment and Training Administration (ETA)."}}},"www-uscis-gov-working-in-the-united-states-permane-7ca4d0":{"name":"Employment-Based Immigration: Second Preference EB-2","site":"www.uscis.gov","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers/employment-based-immigration-second-preference-eb-2","read":"2026-10-28","info":{"step.petition":{"quote":"A U.S. employer must file a Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, on your behalf, except for petitions based on a national interest waiver, where you may file a Form I-140 on your own behalf."},"documents.eta9089":{"quote":"Second preference petitions are usually accompanied by a signed U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)-approved Form ETA-9089, Application for Permanent Employment Certification"}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-c58246":{"name":"NVC Processing","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-1-submit-a-petition/step-2-begin-nvc-processing.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.nvc":{"quote":"After USCIS approves your petition, they will transfer your case to the Department of State's National Visa Center (NVC) for pre-processing. The first step in this processing is the creation of your case in our system. Once this is complete, we will send you a Welcome Letter by e-mail or physical mail."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-597e37":{"name":"Pay Fees","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-1-submit-a-petition/step-3-pay-fees.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.fees":{"quote":"To pay your fee, log into your case in CEAC and click the ‘PAY NOW’ button under Affidavit of Support Fee or IV Fee on your summary page."}}},"fam-state-gov-fam-09fam-09fam050404-html-bc3e5a":{"name":"9 FAM 504.4 (U) PRE-APPOINTMENT PROCESSING","site":"fam.state.gov","href":"https://fam.state.gov/fam/09FAM/09FAM050404.html","read":"2026-10-31","info":{"step.pay":{"quote":"The IV fee bill letter\ninstructs the applicant to go to https://nvc.state.gov and pay the IV fee bill"},"step.book":{"quote":"NVC will\nschedule an appointment at an IV unit and send the IV appointment letter"},"documents.i797":{"quote":"Form I-797, Notice of\nAction;"}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-e98999":{"name":"Online Application","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-5-collect-financial-evidence-and-other-supporting-documents/step-6-complete-online-visa-application.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.ds260":{"quote":"After you pay your fees and the status in CEAC is updated to ‘PAID’, you and each qualified family member immigrating with you must complete the Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration (Form DS-260)."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-a5181d":{"name":"Civil Documents","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-5-collect-financial-evidence-and-other-supporting-documents/step-7-collect-civil-documents.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.documents":{"quote":"After you complete your DS-260(s), you and each family member immigrating with you MUST collect the civil documents required to support your visa application."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-872519":{"name":"Scan Documents","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-8-scan-collected-documents.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.scan":{"quote":"Once you have collected all the necessary documents, you must scan and save them."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-050973":{"name":"Submit Documents","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-8-scan-collected-documents/step-9-upload-and-submit-scanned-documents.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.submit":{"quote":"To submit documents, log into CEAC and go to the “Start Now” buttons located under _Affidavit of Support Documents_ and _Civil Documents_. When you have uploaded all the required documents for each section, press “Submit Documents”."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-supple-4157a4":{"name":"U.S. Embassy Pristina, Kosovo - PRI","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Supplements/Supplements_by_Post/PRI-Pristina.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.delivery":{"quote":"Before your visa interview appointment, you must register online.\nYour registration ensures we have the correct information to return your passport and documents after your visa interview."},"step.medical":{"quote":"As soon as you receive your appointment date, you must schedule a medical exam in Kosovo. Click the Medical Exam Instructions button below for the designated panel physician in Kosovo. Please schedule and attend a medical exam before your interview."},"step.send":{"quote":"It is important that you send all required documents to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Pristina the week before your interview, on Tuesdays at 16:00"},"step.decision":{"quote":"A consular officer can make a decision on a visa application only after reviewing the formal application and interviewing the applicant. _There is no guarantee that you will receive a visa._"},"step.passport":{"quote":"If your visa is approved, we will keep your passport at the embassy while we prepare your immigration packet and print a visa for your passport. Usually, you may pick up your approved visa and documents two working days after your interview."},"documents.vaccination":{"quote":"- A copy of your immunization records"},"documents.appointment":{"quote":"A copy of your NVC interview letter (This does not apply to Diversity Visa, fiancé (e), adoptive, or asylum/refugee applicants)."},"documents.passport":{"quote":"Unexpired passport valid for six (6) months after the date you intend to enter the United States. and a photocopy of the biographic page (where your name and photo are located)."},"documents.photo":{"quote":"Two (2) color passport-size photographs of every person applying for a visa (5 cm x 5 cm or 2-inch x 2 inch)."},"documents.ds260":{"quote":"DS-260 Confirmation Page of the Form DS-260 Application for an Immigrant Visa you submitted online at https://ceac.state.gov/ceac."},"documents.birth":{"quote":"Your _original_ birth certificate and a photocopy."},"documents.medical":{"quote":"Medical examination results in a sealed envelope (if the physician gives you these results)."},"documents.xray":{"quote":"However, you must carry the x-rays with you when you enter the United States as an immigrant."},"documents.employer":{"quote":"_For employment-based visa applications:_ A letter from your U.S. employer dated less than one month ago."}}},"www-ustraveldocs-com-xk-en-immigrant-visa-1d1685":{"name":"USTravelDocs","site":"www.ustraveldocs.com","href":"https://www.ustraveldocs.com/xk/en/immigrant-visa","read":"2026-10-22","info":{"step.interview":{"quote":"If you have an interview date, you must appear at the U.S. Embassy on the date of your appointment."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-b15d56":{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.uscis":{"quote":"USCIS Immigrant Fee \\-  You must pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) after you receive your immigrant visa and before you travel to the United States."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-dc23c8":{"name":"After the Interview","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-12-after-the-interview.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.travel":{"quote":"You must arrive in and apply for admission to the United States no later than the visa expiration date printed on your visa."}}},"www-uscis-gov-forms-all-forms-petition-filing-and-e7d8dc":{"name":"Petition Filing and Processing Procedures for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers","site":"www.uscis.gov","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/forms/all-forms/petition-filing-and-processing-procedures-for-form-i-140-immigrant-petition-for-alien-workers","read":"2026-10-31","info":{"documents.i140":{"quote":"Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers"}}},"www-uscis-gov-forms-filing-guidance-checklist-of-r-cdb903":{"name":"Checklist of Required Initial Evidence for Form I-140 (for informational purposes only)","site":"www.uscis.gov","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-guidance/checklist-of-required-initial-evidence-for-form-i-140-for-informational-purposes-only","read":"2026-10-31","info":{"documents.abilitypay":{"quote":"Proof you can pay the beneficiary the offered wage from the priority date until they become a permanent resident"}}}},"sections":[{"section":"hero","id":"hero","title":"Apply for a U.S. visa for advanced degree professionals (EB-2) in Kosovo","lead":"Your employer gets the prevailing wage determination, your employer gets the permanent labor certification, your employer files the I-140 petition, the National Visa Center takes your case, pay the NVC fees, pay the U.S. visa fee, fill in the DS-260 application, prepare the documents, scan your documents, book the visa appointment, submit the documents, register online, have the medical exam, send the documents the week before the interview, attend the interview, the consular officer decides on your visa, get your passport, pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee, travel before the visa expires.","placeholder":"Ask about the EB-2 visa…","slides":[{"id":"landmark-04","ask":"Who can get an EB-2 visa?","art":{"image":"/website/hero-landmark-04.webp","alt":"A young man guides his visiting parents along a path as the Golden Gate Bridge appears through light coastal mist","credit":"The A Company"}},{"id":"original-friends-reunion","ask":"What is the National Interest Waiver?","art":{"image":"/website/hero-original-friends-reunion.webp","alt":"Friends meeting again in Grand Central","credit":"The A Company"}},{"id":"homepage-concepts-roadtrip-02","ask":"How long does the EB-2 labor certification take?","art":{"image":"/website/hero-homepage-concepts-roadtrip-02.webp","alt":"A family on a road trip in the American Southwest","credit":"The A Company"}}]},{"section":"reviews","id":"reviews","style":"badge-under","title":"60,381 customers","words":"The words people use most: “recommend”, “professional”, “smooth”, “clear” and “thank you”.","info":["customers","google_reviews"],"rating":{"score":"google_rating","count":"google_reviews","href":"office.map"},"show":8},{"section":"pricing","id":"pricing","title":"What it costs","items":[{"id":"visa-fee","name":"Fee for the U.S. visa for advanced degree professionals (EB-2)","amount":"visa.price","to":"U.S. Department of State","note":"Paid to the U.S. Department of State, for each intending immigrant, on an approved I-140 or I-526. Not refunded.","info":["visa.price","eb_fee_rules"]},{"id":"service","name":"The A Company's service","amount":"service.price","to":"The A Company","note":"The A Company prepares the prevailing wage request for your employer, prepares the permanent labor certification for your employer, prepares the I-140 petition for your employer, pays the NVC fees, pays the U.S. visa fee, fills in the DS-260 application, prepares the documents for the interview, scans your documents, books the visa appointment, submits the documents in CEAC, registers you online for the return of your passport, books the medical exam, sends the documents to the U.S. Embassy the week before the interview, and pays the USCIS Immigrant Fee. Paid to The A Company, half at the start, half before the interview.","info":["service.price"]}],"rate":{"usd_per_eur":1.1195,"date":"2026-10-14","href":"https://www.ecb.europa.eu/stats/policy_and_exchange_rates/euro_reference_exchange_rates/html/index.en.html"}},{"section":"steps","id":"steps","style":"images","title":"How to apply","items":[{"id":"wage","name":"Your employer gets the prevailing wage determination","text":"From the National Prevailing Wage Center (NPWC). The employer completes Form ETA-9141, the Application for Prevailing Wage Determination, and submits it there.","tone":"plain","info":["step.wage"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/pwd-eb.webp","alt":"The OFLC Wage Search printout for the job's SOC code and area"}},{"id":"perm","name":"Your employer gets the permanent labor certification","text":"From the Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration. In most cases, before the employer can file the immigration petition with USCIS.","tone":"plain","info":["step.perm"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/eta9089.webp","alt":"The Department of Labor's approval of the permanent labor certification, Form ETA-9089"}},{"id":"petition","name":"Your employer files the I-140 petition","text":"Your U.S. employer offers the job, gets a prevailing wage determination and the PERM labor certification from the Department of Labor, then files Form I-140 with USCIS and pays {eb2_i140_paper}, or {eb2_i140_online} online, plus the Asylum Program Fee. With a National Interest Waiver you file the I-140 yourself, with no job offer or labor certification.","tone":"plain","info":["eb2_labor","eb_labor_cert","eb2_perm_pwd","eb_niw","eb2_i140_paper","eb2_i140_online","eb2_asylum","eb2_asylum_small"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/i797eb.webp","alt":"The I-797 approval notice of the petition for the EB-2 visa"},"href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-140","documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"eta9089","title":"Form ETA-9089 Final Determination","text":"The Application for Permanent Employment Certification. Signed. It must be approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.eta9089"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/eta9089.webp","alt":"The Department of Labor's approval of the permanent labor certification, Form ETA-9089"}},{"id":"i140","title":"Form I-140","text":"The Petition for Alien Worker.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.i140"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/i140.webp","alt":"Form I-140, the immigrant petition for an alien worker"}},{"id":"abilitypay","title":"Proof of ability to pay the offered wage","text":"Proof that your employer can pay you the offered wage. It must cover the time from the priority date until you become a permanent resident.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.abilitypay"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/abilitypay.webp","alt":"The employer's letter showing it can pay the offered wage"}}]}]},{"id":"nvc","name":"The National Visa Center takes your case","text":"When USCIS approves the petition, your case goes to the National Visa Center (NVC). Log in to ceac.state.gov for your case status and the list of documents you must submit.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_nvc","iv_nvc_status"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/nvcemail-eb-2.webp","alt":"The NVC Welcome Letter with the case number"},"href":"https://ceac.state.gov/IV/"},{"id":"fees","name":"Pay the NVC fees","text":"The first thing after the NVC Welcome Letter: pay {visa.price} for each immigrant, and the Affidavit of Support fee.","tone":"plain","info":["visa.price","iv_fees_first","iv_fees"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/nvcreceipt.webp","alt":"The NVC fee payment page in CEAC"},"href":"https://ceac.state.gov/IV/"},{"id":"pay","name":"Pay the U.S. visa fee","text":"The visa application fee. Keep the receipt or its reference number safe.","tone":"plain","info":["step.pay"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ivfee-eb-2.webp","alt":"The visa fee receipt for the EB-2 visa"}},{"id":"ds260","name":"Fill in the DS-260 application","text":"You and each family member immigrating with you fill in the DS-260 online. Print its confirmation page and bring it to the interview.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_ds260"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ds260eb.webp","alt":"The DS-260 confirmation page for the EB-2 visa"},"href":"https://ceac.state.gov/IV/"},{"id":"documents","name":"Prepare the documents","text":"Civil documents issued by the official authority, with certified translations when they are not in English or the official language of the country you apply from.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_civil","iv_civil_translation"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ai-docs-prep.webp","alt":"Documents prepared for the interview"},"documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"passport","title":"Passport","text":"Your current passport.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_interview"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/passport.webp","alt":"An open passport"}},{"id":"ds260","title":"DS-260 confirmation","text":"The confirmation page of your DS-260, printed.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_ds260"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ds260eb.webp","alt":"The DS-260 confirmation page for the EB-2 visa"}},{"id":"photo","title":"Photo","text":"Photos as the U.S. visa photo rules ask.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_civil"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/photo-print.webp","alt":"A printed visa photo"}},{"id":"appointment","title":"Visa appointment confirmation","text":"Your interview appointment confirmation letter. It shows that you booked your appointment through the official appointment service.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.appointment"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/appointment.webp","alt":"Visa appointment confirmation"}},{"id":"birth","title":"Birth certificate","text":"Your birth certificate. The original or a certified copy. Some visas also ask for a photocopy.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.birth"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/civil.webp","alt":"Birth certificate"}},{"id":"medical","title":"Medical exam results","text":"The results of your medical examination. In a sealed envelope, if the physician gives them to you.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.medical"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/medicaleb.webp","alt":"The panel physician's medical exam form (DS-2054)"}},{"id":"i797","title":"The approved petition (I-797)","text":"The Form I-797 notice that your petition was approved. From USCIS.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.i797"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/i797eb.webp","alt":"The I-797 approval notice of the petition for the EB-2 visa"}},{"id":"employer","title":"Letter from your employer","text":"A letter from your employer with your position, your salary, how long you have worked there, any approved vacation and the business purpose of your trip, if any.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.employer"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/employer.webp","alt":"An employer's letter with the position, salary and purpose of the trip"}}]}]},{"id":"scan","name":"Scan your documents","text":"Once you have all the documents, scan each one and save it, with a scanner or a smartphone.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_scan"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/scans.webp","alt":"Each document scanned and saved as its own file"}},{"id":"book","name":"Book the visa appointment","text":"The appointment for your visa interview. At the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. You book it online, where you also select your visa type, add dependents and confirm the visa payment. Keep the appointment letter that confirms your booking, because you present it at the interview.","tone":"plain","info":["step.book"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/appointment.webp","alt":"Visa appointment confirmation"}},{"id":"submit","name":"Submit the documents in CEAC","text":"Log in to CEAC, upload the Affidavit of Support and the civil documents, then press Submit Documents.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_submit"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ceacupload.webp","alt":"The CEAC confirmation that the documents are accepted"},"href":"https://ceac.state.gov/IV/"},{"id":"delivery","name":"Register online for the return of your passport","text":"Your registration gives the Embassy the correct information to return your passport and documents after the interview. Before your visa interview appointment.","tone":"plain","info":["step.delivery"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/courieremail.webp","alt":"The confirmation of the registration for the return of the passport"}},{"id":"medical","name":"Have the medical exam","text":"You and each family member applying with you see an embassy-approved doctor, the panel physician, in the country of the interview.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_medical"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/medicaleb.webp","alt":"The panel physician's medical exam form (DS-2054)"},"documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"vaccination","title":"Immunization records","text":"A copy of your immunization records.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.vaccination"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/vaccination.webp","alt":"A Kosovo vaccination booklet"}}]}]},{"id":"send","name":"Send the documents to the U.S. Embassy the week before the interview","text":"All the required original documents. To the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Pristina. On the Tuesday of that week, at 16:00.","tone":"plain","info":["step.send"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/sendreceipt-iv.webp","alt":"The A Company's envelope that brings the original documents back, with its shipping label"}},{"id":"interview","name":"Attend the interview at the U.S. Embassy in Pristina","text":"A consular officer interviews you and decides whether you are eligible for the immigrant visa. Bring the printed DS-260 confirmation page.","info":["iv_interview","iv_attend"],"art":{"logo":"/website/logos/us-embassy-pristina.png","alt":"U.S. Embassy Pristina"},"place":{"name":"U.S. Embassy Pristina","at":[42.6563884,21.1415238],"logo":"/website/logos/us-embassy-pristina.png","map":"h","contact":[{"id":"address","label":"Address","info":"embassy.address","href":"https://maps.app.goo.gl/WvDd3uyi4dzG3e7a9"},{"id":"phone","label":"Phone","info":"embassy.telephone"},{"id":"email","label":"Email","info":"embassy_email"},{"id":"website","label":"Website","href":"https://xk.usembassy.gov/visas/","info":"embassy.url"}]}},{"id":"decision","name":"The consular officer decides on your visa","text":"If the visa is approved, you may pay a visa issuance fee, if one applies to your nationality. You are told how your passport with the visa will be returned to you.","tone":"plain","info":["step.decision"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ceacstatus-iv.webp","alt":"CEAC's Visa Status Check: the visa issued"}},{"id":"passport","name":"Get your passport with the U.S. visa","text":"If your visa is approved, the passport comes back through the courier service. You get an email or a text message once the passport is ready.","tone":"plain","info":["step.passport"],"art":{"doc":"visa-book","visa":"eb-2","alt":"The EB-2 visa in a passport"}},{"id":"uscis","name":"Pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee","text":"After you get the immigrant visa and before you travel, pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_uscis_fee"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/uscisb.webp","alt":"The USCIS Immigrant Fee receipt for the EB-2 visa"},"href":"https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-fees/uscis-immigrant-fee"},{"id":"travel","name":"Travel before the visa expires","text":"Enter the United States before the expiration date printed on the visa. Until you have the visa, do not sell your house or leave your job.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_valid","iv_after_wait"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/itinerary.webp","alt":"The Turkish Airlines e-ticket itinerary: Pristina, Istanbul, San Francisco and back"},"documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"xray","title":"Chest X-rays","text":"The X-rays from your medical examination. You must carry them with you when you enter the United States as an immigrant.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.xray"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/xray.webp","alt":"The chest X-ray film from the medical exam"}}]}]}]},{"section":"cta","id":"cta","title":"Ask us about the EB-2 visa","placeholder":"Help me with the EB-2 visa…"},{"section":"faq","id":"faq","style":"columns","menu":"Questions","title":"Questions? Answers.","items":[{"q":"How much does the EB-2 visa cost in Kosovo?","text":"{visa.price} for each intending immigrant, to the U.S. Department of State, on the approved I-140. The petitioner, your employer or you with a National Interest Waiver, pays USCIS {eb2_i140_paper} for the I-140, or {eb2_i140_online} online, plus the Asylum Program Fee.","info":["visa.price","eb_fee_rules","eb2_i140_paper","eb2_i140_online","eb2_asylum","eb2_asylum_small"],"id":"cost","step":"before"}]},{"section":"ask","id":"ask","style":"strip","placeholder":"Ask anything about visas…","title":"Still have a question?"},{"section":"related","id":"related","title":"Related pages"},{"section":"sources","id":"sources","title":"Official sources"}],"questions":[{"id":"cost","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"How much does the EB-2 visa cost in Kosovo?","text":"$345 for each intending immigrant, to the U.S. Department of State, on the approved I-140. The petitioner, your employer or you with a National Interest Waiver, pays USCIS $715 for the I-140, or $665 online, plus the Asylum Program Fee.","sources":[{"name":"Fees for Visa Services","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/fees/fees-visa-services.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"G-1055, Fee Schedule","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/g-1055.pdf","read":"2026-10-28"}],"quote":"Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fees (non-refundable, per person)\nEmployment-based applications (processed on the basis of an approved I-140 or I-526 petition) | $345.00\nFiling of Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, or Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, Form I-360 (this fee is charged by USCIS)\nNote: Fees must be paid for each intending immigrant, regardless of age, and are not refundable.\nFees should not be paid to the NVC or paid at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you have your visa interview unless specifically requested. Applicants will be provided with instructions by the NVC on where and when to pay the appropriate fees.\n| I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (uscis.gov/i-140) | General filing | Paper Filing: $715 plus additional fees, if applicable Online Filing: $665 plus additional fees, if applicable |\n| I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (uscis.gov/i-140) | General filing | Paper Filing: $715 plus additional fees, if applicable Online Filing: $665 plus additional fees, if applicable |\n| I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (uscis.gov/i-140) | Additional Fees: 1. Asylum Program Fee a. If you are filing as a Regular Petitioner b. If filing as a Nonprofit c. If filing as a Small Employer or self-petitioner | a. $600 b. $0 c. $300 |\n| I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (uscis.gov/i-140) | Additional Fees: 1. Asylum Program Fee a. If you are filing as a Regular Petitioner b. If filing as a Nonprofit c. If filing as a Small Employer or self-petitioner | a. $600 b. $0 c. $300 |"},{"id":"eb2-who","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"Who can get an EB-2 visa?","text":"Professionals with an advanced degree, or a bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of progressive experience in the profession, and people with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts or business.","sources":[{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"**Professionals holding an advanced degree** (beyond a baccalaureate degree), or a baccalaureate degree and at least five years progressive experience in the profession.\nExceptional ability means having a degree of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered in the sciences, arts, or business."},{"id":"eb2-niw","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"What is the National Interest Waiver for the EB-2 visa?","text":"An exemption from the job offer and the labor certification, so you file the I-140 yourself. USCIS weighs 3 factors: your endeavor has substantial merit and national importance, you are well positioned to advance it, and on balance waiving the job offer benefits the United States.","sources":[{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"Employment-Based Immigration: Second Preference EB-2","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers/employment-based-immigration-second-preference-eb-2","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"9 FAM 502.4, Employment-Based IV Classifications","href":"https://fam.state.gov/fam/09FAM/09FAM050204.html","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"Permanent Workers","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers","read":"2026-10-23"}],"quote":"Applicants may apply for an exemption, known as a National Interest Waiver, from the job offer and labor certification if the exemption would be in the national interest. In this case, the applicant may self-petition by filing the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, along with evidence of the national interest.\nThose seeking a national interest waiver may self-petition (you do not need an employer to sponsor you) and you do not need to obtain a labor certification from the DOL.\nAlthough a labor certification is generally\nrequired for the second preference category, USCISmay waive the labor certification requirement\nif it determines that such waiver is in the national interest.\nThe endeavors that qualify for a national interest waiver are not defined by statute; instead, USCIS considers the 3 factors below.\n_Prong 1: Evidence That Your Endeavor Has Substantial Merit and National Importance_\n_Prong 2: Evidence That You Are Well-Positioned to Advance Your Endeavor_\n_Prong 3: On Balance, It Would Be Beneficial to the United States to Waive the Job Offer and Thus the Permanent Labor Certification Requirements_\nNational interest waiver petitions must be accompanied by a completed Form ETA-9089, Appendix A and a signed Form ETA-9089, Final Determination."},{"id":"eb2-wait","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"Is there a wait for the EB-2 visa from Kosovo?","text":"Yes, by priority date. Only applicants whose priority date is earlier than the Visa Bulletin’s final action date for the second preference can get the visa now; Kosovo is in the column for all countries not listed.","sources":[{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"Visa Bulletin For November 2026","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin/2027/visa-bulletin-for-november-2026.html","read":"2026-10-28"}],"quote":"All categories of employment-based immigrant visas are issued in the chronological order in which the petitions were filed until the annual numerical limit for the category is reached. The filing date of a petition becomes the applicant's priority date. Immigrant visas cannot be issued until an applicant's priority date is reached. In certain heavily oversubscribed categories, there may be a waiting period of several years before a priority date is reached. Check the Visa Bulletin for the latest priority dates.\n| 2nd | 01APR25 | 01OCT21 | 01NOV13 | 01APR25 | 01APR25 |\n(NOTE: Numbers are authorized for issuance only for applicants whose priority date is **earlier** than the final action date listed below.)\nThese provisions apply at present to the following oversubscribed chargeability areas:  CHINA-mainland born, INDIA, MEXICO, and PHILIPPINES."},{"id":"eb2-perm","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"How long does the labor certification for the EB-2 visa take?","text":"Yes, unless you ask for a National Interest Waiver or Schedule A. Your employer first gets a prevailing wage determination, then files the PERM application with the Department of Labor, which takes 336 days on average, though each case can differ. The day the Department of Labor receives it is your priority date, and once it is certified your employer has 180 days to file the I-140.","sources":[{"name":"Permanent Labor Certification (PERM)","href":"https://flag.dol.gov/programs/perm","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"FLAG Processing Times","href":"https://flag.dol.gov/processingtimes","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"Permanent Labor Certification","href":"https://www.dol.gov/agencies/eta/foreign-labor/programs/permanent","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"Permanent Workers","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers","read":"2026-10-23"},{"name":"I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-140","read":"2026-10-23"},{"name":"Permanent Workers","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers","read":"2026-10-23"}],"quote":"Employers must have a prevailing wage determination for the job opportunity issued from the Office of Foreign Labor Certification’s (OFLC’s) National Prevailing Wage Center (NPWC) prior to filing a PERM application.\n| Analyst Review | August 2026 | 336 |\nActual processing times for each employer’s PERM application may vary from the average depending on material facts and individual circumstances of the case.\nThe date the labor certification application is received by the DOL is known as the filing date and is used by USCIS and the Department of State as the priority date.\nFor the second and third preference categories (see chart below), before the U.S. employer can file an immigrant petition with USCIS, the employer must generally obtain a labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The labor certification verifies the following:\nThere are insufficient available, qualified, able, and willing U.S. workers to fill the position being offered at the prevailing wage rate or higher; and\nHiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers.\nForm I-140 may be filed at any time. However, effective July 16, 2007, all labor certifications expire 180 days from the date of certification. We must receive any Form I-140 based on an approved labor certification before the 180-day validity period has elapsed. We will reject a petition that contains an expired labor certification.\nThis preference is reserved for persons who are members of the professions holding advanced degrees or for persons with exceptional ability in the arts, sciences, or business. | Yes, unless the Form I-140 petition is accompanied by an application for Schedule A designation or a request for a national interest waiver."},{"id":"eb2-fee","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"How much does the I-140 petition for the EB-2 visa cost?","text":"The petitioner, your employer or you with a National Interest Waiver, pays USCIS $715 for the I-140 on paper, or $665 online, plus the Asylum Program Fee: $600 for a regular employer, $300 for a small employer or a self-petitioner, nothing for a nonprofit.","sources":[{"name":"G-1055, Fee Schedule","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/g-1055.pdf","read":"2026-10-28"}],"quote":"| I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (uscis.gov/i-140) | General filing | Paper Filing: $715 plus additional fees, if applicable Online Filing: $665 plus additional fees, if applicable |\n| I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (uscis.gov/i-140) | General filing | Paper Filing: $715 plus additional fees, if applicable Online Filing: $665 plus additional fees, if applicable |\n| I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (uscis.gov/i-140) | Additional Fees: 1. Asylum Program Fee a. If you are filing as a Regular Petitioner b. If filing as a Nonprofit c. If filing as a Small Employer or self-petitioner | a. $600 b. $0 c. $300 |\n| I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers (uscis.gov/i-140) | Additional Fees: 1. Asylum Program Fee a. If you are filing as a Regular Petitioner b. If filing as a Nonprofit c. If filing as a Small Employer or self-petitioner | a. $600 b. $0 c. $300 |"},{"id":"eb-preferences","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"What are the U.S. employment-based immigrant visa categories (EB-1 to EB-5)?","text":"Five, with about 140,000 visas each fiscal year. EB-1 is for people of extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and multinational managers. EB-2 for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability. EB-3 for skilled workers, professionals and other workers. EB-4 for special immigrants, such as religious workers. EB-5 for investors in a new U.S. business that creates jobs.","sources":[{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Every fiscal year (October 1st – September 30th), approximately 140,000 employment-based immigrant visas are made available to qualified applicants under the provisions of U.S. immigration law. Employment based immigrant visas are divided into five preference categories.\nEmployment First Preference (E1): Priority Worker and Persons of Extraordinary Ability\nPersons with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.\nOutstanding professors and researchers\nMultinational managers or executives\nEmployment Second Preference (E2): Professionals Holding Advanced Degrees and Persons of Exceptional Ability\nEmployment Third Preference (E3): Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Unskilled Workers (Other Workers)\nEmployment Fourth Preference (E4): Certain Special Immigrants\nMinisters of Religion\nCertain Religious Workers\nEmployment Fifth Preference (E5): Immigrant Investors\nImmigrant Investor visa categories are for capital investment by foreign investors in new commercial enterprises in the United States which provide job creation.","related":["eb-first-steps"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"eb-first-steps","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"What comes first for a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa: the labor certification or the I-140?","text":"The labor certification, when your category needs one. Your U.S. employer first gets it from the Department of Labor, to show there are not enough U.S. workers for the job, then files Form I-140 with USCIS. EB-2 and EB-3 generally need it, EB-4 does not, and EB-2 can be exempted by a National Interest Waiver.","sources":[{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"Permanent Workers","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers","read":"2026-10-23"}],"quote":"To be considered for an immigrant visa under some of the employment-based categories below, the applicant's prospective employer or agent must first obtain a labor certification approval from the Department of Labor. Once received (if required), the employer then files an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the appropriate employment-based preference category. (NOTE: Persons with extraordinary abilities in the Employment First preference category are able to file their own petitions.)\nFor the second and third preference categories (see chart below), before the U.S. employer can file an immigrant petition with USCIS, the employer must generally obtain a labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The labor certification verifies the following:\nThere are insufficient available, qualified, able, and willing U.S. workers to fill the position being offered at the prevailing wage rate or higher; and\nHiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers.\nA Fourth Preference applicant must be the beneficiary of an approved Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, Form I-360\nLabor certification is not required for any of the Certain Special Immigrants subgroups.\nApplicants may apply for an exemption, known as a National Interest Waiver, from the job offer and labor certification if the exemption would be in the national interest. In this case, the applicant may self-petition by filing the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, along with evidence of the national interest.","related":["eb-self-petition","eb-labor-cert-valid"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"eb-self-petition","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"Can I file the I-140 myself for a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa?","text":"Only if no job offer is required. Otherwise your U.S. employer is your petitioner and files it for you. People of extraordinary ability (EB-1) can file their own, and so can EB-2 applicants who ask for a National Interest Waiver.","sources":[{"name":"Permanent Workers","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers","read":"2026-10-23"},{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Some immigrant visa preference categories require you to have a permanent job offer from a U.S. employer. This employer will be considered your sponsor/petitioner and will file an immigrant petition with USCIS on your behalf. If no job offer is required, you may file a petition on your own behalf.\nTo be considered for an immigrant visa under some of the employment-based categories below, the applicant's prospective employer or agent must first obtain a labor certification approval from the Department of Labor. Once received (if required), the employer then files an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the appropriate employment-based preference category. (NOTE: Persons with extraordinary abilities in the Employment First preference category are able to file their own petitions.)\nApplicants may apply for an exemption, known as a National Interest Waiver, from the job offer and labor certification if the exemption would be in the national interest. In this case, the applicant may self-petition by filing the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, along with evidence of the national interest.","related":["eb-first-steps"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"eb-labor-cert-valid","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"How long is a labor certification valid for the I-140?","text":"180 days from the date of certification. USCIS must receive the I-140 within them, and rejects a petition with an expired labor certification.","sources":[{"name":"I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-140","read":"2026-10-23"}],"quote":"Form I-140 may be filed at any time. However, effective July 16, 2007, all labor certifications expire 180 days from the date of certification. We must receive any Form I-140 based on an approved labor certification before the 180-day validity period has elapsed. We will reject a petition that contains an expired labor certification.","related":["eb-first-steps"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"eb-after-petition","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"What happens after USCIS approves my I-140?","text":"It goes to the National Visa Center (NVC), which gives your case a number. When your priority date meets the latest qualifying date, the NVC asks you to pay the fees, then to submit your documents.","sources":[{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"After USCIS approves the petition, it is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). Once received, the NVC will assign a case number for the petition. When an applicant’s priority date meets the most recent qualifying date, the NVC will instruct the applicant to complete Form DS-261, Choice of Address and Agent.\nThe NVC will begin pre-processing the applicant’s case by providing the applicant with instructions to submit the appropriate fees. After the appropriate fees are paid, the NVC will request that the applicant submit the necessary immigrant visa documents, including application forms, civil documents, and more.","related":["eb-fee"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"eb-family","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"Can my spouse and children get U.S. employment-based immigrant visas with me?","text":"Yes. On your approved petition, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply with you. Each of them fills in the forms, brings civil documents, pays the fees and has the medical exam.","sources":[{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Based on your approved petition, your spouse and minor unmarried children, younger than 21, may apply for immigrant visas with you. Like you, they must also fill out required application forms, obtain required civil documents, pay the required fees, and undergo medical examinations.","related":["eb-fee"],"asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","q":"Can My Family Members also Receive Immigrant Visas?"}]},{"id":"iv-petition","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"How does a U.S. immigrant visa start?","text":"Usually with a petition. A U.S. citizen or permanent resident relative files Form I-130, or a U.S. employer files Form I-140, with USCIS. USCIS must approve it before your case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC).","sources":[{"name":"Step 1: Submit a Petition","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-1-submit-a-petition.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"U.S. citizens and lawful permanent resident sponsors residing in the United States must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the USCIS Chicago Lockbox facility, following instructions on the USCIS website. U.S. employers must file Form I-140, Petition for Alien Worker, as instructed on the USCIS website.\nYour immigrant petition must be approved by USCIS before your case can proceed to the National Visa Center.","related":["iv-nvc"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"iv-nvc","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"What happens after USCIS approves the petition?","text":"USCIS sends your case to the National Visa Center (NVC). NVC creates it and sends you a Welcome Letter, with which you log in to CEAC. There you pay the fees and submit the forms and documents, and NVC reviews them before an interview can be scheduled. In categories with a yearly limit, you wait until a visa number is available for your priority date, the day the petition was filed.","sources":[{"name":"Step 2: Begin National Visa Center (NVC) Processing","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-1-submit-a-petition/step-2-begin-nvc-processing.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"After USCIS approves your petition, they will transfer your case to the Department of State's National Visa Center (NVC) for pre-processing. The first step in this processing is the creation of your case in our system. Once this is complete, we will send you a Welcome Letter by e-mail or physical mail. With the information in this letter, you can log in to our Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) to check your status, receive messages, and manage your case.\nOnce you submit your fees, forms, and supporting documents to NVC, we will review your case to ensure you provided all the documentation required to schedule the immigrant visa interview.\nUnited States law limits the number of immigrant visa numbers available each year in certain visa categories. This means that even if USCIS approves an immigrant visa petition for you, you may not get an immigrant visa number immediately.\nThe date your petition was filed is called your priority date.\nPriority dates are posted monthly on the Visa Bulletin","related":["iv-fees","iv-civil"],"asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/national-visa-center/immigrant-visas-processing-general-faqs.html","q":"I am the beneficiary (applicant) and my case is at NVC. Now what happens?"}]},{"id":"dual-citizen","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"I have dual citizenship. Which passport do I use to travel to the United States?","text":"If one of them is a U.S. passport, that one. Every U.S. citizen, dual citizens too, must enter and leave the United States on a U.S. passport. A U.S. citizen is not eligible for a visa.","sources":[{"name":"About Visas - The Basics","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/frequently-asked-questions/about-basics.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"All U.S. citizens, even dual citizens/nationals, must enter and depart the United States using his/her U.S. passport.\nIf a person is a U.S. citizen, he or she is not eligible for a visa.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/frequently-asked-questions/about-basics.html","q":"I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel to the United States?"}]},{"id":"iv-ds260","step":"ds160","shown":false,"q":"Who fills in the DS-260, and when?","text":"You and each family member immigrating with you, each their own. It opens after the fees are paid and CEAC shows ‘PAID’. Print the confirmation page and bring it to the interview.","sources":[{"name":"Step 6: Complete Online Visa Application (DS-260)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-5-collect-financial-evidence-and-other-supporting-documents/step-6-complete-online-visa-application.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"After you pay your fees and the status in CEAC is updated to ‘PAID’, you and each qualified family member immigrating with you must complete the Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration (Form DS-260).\nAfter submitting Form DS-260 online, you must print the confirmation page and bring it to your interview.","related":["iv-ds260-english"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"iv-ds260-english","step":"ds160","shown":false,"q":"Can I fill in the DS-260 in my own language?","text":"No. All answers must be in English, using English characters only. An application in another language may be rejected, and you will have to log back in to CEAC and answer in English.","sources":[{"name":"DS-260 Immigrant Visa Electronic Application - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/forms/online-immigrant-visa-forms/ds-260-faqs.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"No. All answers, except as specially provided, must be in English, using English characters only. Applications submitted in any language other than English may be rejected, and you will be required to log back into the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) and provide English answers.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/forms/online-immigrant-visa-forms/ds-260-faqs.html","q":"Can I answer in my native language?"}]},{"id":"eb-fee","step":"pay","shown":true,"q":"How much is the U.S. employment-based immigrant visa fee?","text":"$345 per person, for an application on an approved I-140 or I-526. Each intending immigrant pays it, whatever their age, and it is not refunded. Pay only when and where the NVC tells you. The I-140 filing fee is separate and goes to USCIS.","sources":[{"name":"Fees for Visa Services","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/fees/fees-visa-services.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"Employment-Based Immigrant Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fees (non-refundable, per person)\nEmployment-based applications (processed on the basis of an approved I-140 or I-526 petition) | $345.00\nFiling of Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, or Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, Form I-360 (this fee is charged by USCIS)\nNote: Fees must be paid for each intending immigrant, regardless of age, and are not refundable.\nFees should not be paid to the NVC or paid at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you have your visa interview unless specifically requested. Applicants will be provided with instructions by the NVC on where and when to pay the appropriate fees.","related":["eb-after-petition"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"iv-fees","step":"pay","shown":false,"q":"Which fees do I pay to the NVC for a U.S. immigrant visa?","text":"Two: the immigrant visa application processing fee and the Affidavit of Support fee, which a small number of cases do not pay. You pay them online in CEAC, one at a time, from a U.S. bank account. Allow 10 calendar days for NVC to process them; the DS-260 opens only after that.","sources":[{"name":"Step 3: Pay Fees","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-1-submit-a-petition/step-3-pay-fees.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"There are two processing fees:\nImmigrant Visa Application Processing Fee\nAffidavit of Support Fee. A small number of cases do not require payment of this fee.\nYou will need a bank routing number and a checking or savings account number from a U.S. based bank.\nPlease note you cannot pay these two fees simultaneously; the online system will ask you to pay them one at a time.\nAfter submitting your payments online, please allow 10 calendar days for NVC to process your fees before continuing to the next step. You will not be able to access Form DS-260 until NVC has processed your payments.","related":["iv-ds260"],"asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/national-visa-center/immigrant-visas-processing-general-faqs.html","q":"How much are the fees for the National Visa Center's Services?"}]},{"id":"iv-civil","step":"documents","shown":true,"q":"Which civil documents do I need for a U.S. immigrant visa?","text":"A birth certificate, marriage and divorce certificates, and police certificates if you are 16 or older. They must be issued by the official authority in your country. Documents not in English, or in the official language of the country where you apply, need a certified translation.","sources":[{"name":"Civil Documents FAQs","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/civil-documents-faq.html","read":"2026-10-14"},{"name":"Step 7: Collect Civil Documents","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-5-collect-financial-evidence-and-other-supporting-documents/step-7-collect-civil-documents.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"All visa applicants must submit documents showing their eligibility for a visa class, and identifying information. That includes a birth certificate, marriage and divorce certificates, and police certificates.\nIf you are 16 years of age or older, you must obtain a photocopy of a police certificate from all countries you have lived in using below criteria:\nYour civil documents MUST be issued by the official issuing authority in your country.\nPlease note that all documents not written in English, or in the official language of the country from which you are applying, must be accompanied by certified translations.","related":["iv-originals"],"asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/civil-documents-faq.html","q":"What documents do I have to upload?"}]},{"id":"iv-originals","step":"documents","shown":false,"q":"Do I bring the original documents to the interview?","text":"Yes. Even though you uploaded copies, bring the original paper versions. Without them the consular officer cannot complete your interview or issue a visa. The originals are returned to you after the interview.","sources":[{"name":"Civil Documents FAQs","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/civil-documents-faq.html","read":"2026-10-14"},{"name":"Step 11: Applicant Interview","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-11-applicant-interview.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Yes. Even though you submitted copies of all the required documents online, you must bring the original paper versions to your interview at the U.S. Embassy. If you do not, the consular officer will not be able to complete your interview or issue a visa.\nOn the scheduled date and time of your interview appointment, go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with your printed visa application (DS-260) confirmation page. A consular officer will interview you (and accompanying family member beneficiaries) and determine whether or not you are eligible to receive an immigrant visa. As part of the interview process, ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken.\nYour original documents will be returned to you when the interview has been completed.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/civil-documents-faq.html","q":"Do I need to bring the documents I uploaded to my visa interview?"}]},{"id":"iv-medical","step":"documents","shown":false,"q":"Do I need a medical examination for a U.S. immigrant visa?","text":"Yes, you and each family member applying with you, before the interview. It must be done by the embassy-approved panel physician in the country where you will be interviewed; exams by other doctors are not accepted. If the doctor gives you a sealed envelope, do not open it: bring it to the interview.","sources":[{"name":"Step 10: Prepare for the Interview","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"You (and each family member or “derivative applicant” applying for a visa with you) are required to schedule a medical appointment with an authorized physician in the country where you will be interviewed. This exam must be with an embassy-approved doctor, also referred to as the Panel Physician. Exams conducted by other physicians will not be accepted.\nYou must complete your medical examination, along with any required vaccinations, before your scheduled visa interview date.\nIf the doctor gives you an envelope, do not open it. Instead, bring it to your visa interview and give it to the consular officer.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/medical-examination-faqs.html","q":"Can the applicant have his/her physician perform the medical examination?"}]},{"id":"photo-rules","step":"documents","shown":false,"q":"What are the photo requirements for a U.S. visa?","text":"2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), in color, in front of a plain white or off-white background, taken within the last 6 months, showing how you look now, and without eyeglasses. Glasses are allowed only in rare medical cases, with a statement signed by a medical professional.","sources":[{"name":"Photo Requirements","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/photos.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"Photo Frequently Asked Questions","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/photos/frequently-asked-questions.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) in size\nYes, the photos must be in color. Black and white photos will not be accepted.\nTaken in front of a plain white or off-white background\nYour photos must have been taken within 6 months of submitting your application and reflect your current appearance.\nEffective November 1, 2016, eyeglasses are no longer allowed in new visa photos, except in rare circumstances when eyeglasses cannot be removed for medical reasons\nA medical statement signed by a medical professional/health practitioner must be provided in these cases.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/photos/frequently-asked-questions.html","q":"Do my photos have to be in color?"},{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/photos/frequently-asked-questions.html","q":"How recent must my photos be?"},{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/photos/frequently-asked-questions.html","q":"Can eyeglasses be worn for the photo?"}]},{"id":"iv-interview","step":"interview","shown":false,"q":"What happens at the U.S. immigrant visa interview?","text":"You go to the embassy or consulate with the DS-260 confirmation page. A consular officer interviews you and the family members immigrating with you and decides whether you are eligible for an immigrant visa. Digital fingerprints are taken, without ink.","sources":[{"name":"Step 11: Applicant Interview","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-11-applicant-interview.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"On the scheduled date and time of your interview appointment, go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with your printed visa application (DS-260) confirmation page. A consular officer will interview you (and accompanying family member beneficiaries) and determine whether or not you are eligible to receive an immigrant visa. As part of the interview process, ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken.\nYour original documents will be returned to you when the interview has been completed.","related":["iv-attend","iv-originals"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"iv-attend","step":"interview","shown":true,"q":"Who must attend the U.S. immigrant visa interview?","text":"You, the principal applicant, at any age, and each family member immigrating with you who is at least 14 on the day of the interview. A family member with their own case number attends at any age. Your petitioner does not need to attend.","sources":[{"name":"Step 11: Applicant Interview","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-11-applicant-interview.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"You (the principal applicant), regardless of age.\nAny family members immigrating with you, if they will be at least 14 years old on the day of the interview.\nAny family member, regardless of age, who has their own petition/case number.\nYour sponsor/petitioner.\nAny family members immigrating with you, if they will be at least 14 years old on the day of the interview.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-11-applicant-interview.html","q":"Who Must Attend the Interview"}]},{"id":"status","step":"interview","shown":true,"q":"How do I check the status of my U.S. visa application?","text":"On the State Department’s Visa Status Check, at ceac.state.gov. Choose your visa type, then enter your passport number and the first five letters of your surname.","sources":[{"name":"Visa Status Check","href":"https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx","read":"2026-10-15"}],"quote":"Welcome! On this website, you can check your U.S. visa application status.\nIMMIGRANT VISA (IV)NONIMMIGRANT VISA (NIV)\nPassport Number\nFirst 5 Letters of Surname","asked":[{"by":"search-console","q":"ceac visa status check","clicks":3,"impressions":1228,"to":"2026-10-23"},{"by":"search-console","q":"check us visa status","clicks":2,"impressions":1732,"to":"2026-10-23"},{"by":"search-console","q":"check u.s. visa status with passport number","clicks":4,"impressions":388,"to":"2026-10-23"}]},{"id":"guarantee","step":"interview","shown":true,"q":"Can anyone guarantee a U.S. visa?","text":"No. Any claim that someone can guarantee a visa is fraudulent. A consular officer decides at the interview whether you qualify.","sources":[{"name":"U.S. Embassy in Kosovo: Nonimmigrant Visa FAQ","href":"https://xk.usembassy.gov/frequently-asked-questions-nonimmigrant-visa/","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Is it true that another company, website or individual can guarantee the issuance of a U.S. visa?\nNo. Any and all such claims are fraudulent.\nA U.S. Consular Officer will review your application at the time of the interview and decide whether you are qualified for a visa.","asked":[{"by":"https://xk.usembassy.gov/frequently-asked-questions-nonimmigrant-visa/","q":"Is it true that another company, website or individual can guarantee the issuance of a U.S. visa?"}]},{"id":"refused-221g","step":"interview","shown":false,"q":"My visa was refused under 221(g). What does it mean?","text":"That the officer did not yet have everything needed to decide. You are told which documents are missing and how to send them; send them within 1 year of the refusal, or you must apply again and pay the fee again. Sometimes it means administrative processing instead, and the embassy contacts you when it is done.","sources":[{"name":"Visa Denials","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/visa-denials.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"A visa denial under section 221(g) of the INA means that the consular officer did not have all of the information required to conclude you are eligible to receive a visa.\nIf further documents are required to complete your case, you will be informed what is needed and how to provide it to the embassy or consulate.\nThe consular officer could not conclude you were elegible for the visa sought and additional administrative processing of your application is required. You will be given a letter stating this; the embassy or consulate will contact you when the administrative processing is complete.\nYou have one year from the date you were refused a visa to submit the additional information. Otherwise, if you do not provide the required additional information within one year, you must reapply for the visa and pay another application fee.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/visa-denials.html","q":"What does a visa denial under INA section 221(g) mean?"}]},{"id":"courier","step":"dhl","shown":false,"q":"How do I get my passport back in Kosovo, and what does it cost?","text":"By DHL, to your address, for €10. If your visa is approved, the passport is mailed to your local address. After the interview you go to the DHL office near the Embassy, give your contact details and pay €10 there, in cash or by card.","sources":[{"name":"Passport/Visa collection locations and timings, Kosovo","href":"https://www.ustraveldocs.com/xk/en/collection-locations","read":"2026-10-12"}],"quote":"If your visa is approved, your passport(s) will be mailed back to your local address via DHL.\nOnce you complete your consular service with the Embassy, you will be directed to the nearest DHL office ( 350 m from the Embassy\nto provide your contact information at a cost of €10 cash or credit card, paid directly with DHL\nIf your visa is approved, your passport(s) will be mailed back to your local address via DHL.\nto provide your contact information at a cost of €10 cash or credit card, paid directly with DHL","related":["cost"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"iv-travel","step":"passport","shown":false,"q":"How long after the immigrant visa is issued can I travel?","text":"Until the expiration date printed on the visa. An immigrant visa is usually valid for up to 6 months from issuance, less if your medical examination expires sooner. The principal applicant enters before or together with the family.","sources":[{"name":"Step 12: After the Interview","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-12-after-the-interview.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"You must arrive in and apply for admission to the United States no later than the visa expiration date printed on your visa. An immigrant visa is usually valid for up to six months from the date of issuance unless your medical examination expires sooner, which may make your visa valid for less than six months.\nWhen traveling to the United States, the primary (or principal) applicant must enter before or at the same time as derivative family members with visas.\nAn immigrant visa is usually valid for up to six months from the date of issuance","related":["iv-uscis-fee"],"asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-12-after-the-interview.html","q":"When should I travel?"}]},{"id":"iv-uscis-fee","step":"passport","shown":false,"q":"What must I pay before I travel on a U.S. immigrant visa?","text":"The USCIS Immigrant Fee, paid to USCIS after you receive the visa and before you travel. USCIS will not issue your Green Card until it is paid. Returning residents (SB-1) and K visa holders do not pay it.","sources":[{"name":"Step 12: After the Interview","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-12-after-the-interview.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"You must pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) after you receive your immigrant visa and before you travel to the United States. Only children who enter the United States under the Orphan or Hague adoption programs, Iraqi and Afghan special immigrants, returning residents (SB-1s), and those issued K visas are exempt from this fee.\nPlease Note: USCIS will not issue a Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551 or Green Card) until you have paid the fee.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-10-prepare-for-the-interview/step-12-after-the-interview.html","q":"What do I need to do before I travel?"}]},{"id":"no-entry-guarantee","step":"passport","shown":false,"q":"Does a U.S. visa guarantee entry into the United States?","text":"No. A visa lets you travel to a U.S. port of entry and ask to be admitted. A CBP officer there decides whether you enter.","sources":[{"name":"About Visas - The Basics","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/frequently-asked-questions/about-basics.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"What the Visa Expiration Date Means","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/visa-expiration-date.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to the U.S. port-of-entry, and the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) immigration inspector authorizes or denies admission to the United States.\nEntry and the length of authorized stay within the United States are determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer at the port-of-entry each time you travel.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/frequently-asked-questions/about-basics.html","q":"After I have my visa, I will be able to enter the U.S., correct?"}]},{"id":"what","shown":false,"q":"What does The A Company do?","text":"It prepares your U.S. visa application with you: the DS-160, paying the visa fee, booking the appointment and preparing the documents for the interview.","sources":[{"name":"The A Company: the eb-2 service","href":"https://theacompany.ai/","read":"2026-11-02"}],"quote":"service.includes: [\"wage\",\"perm\",\"petition\",\"fees\",\"pay\",\"ds260\",\"documents\",\"scan\",\"book\",\"submit\",\"delivery\",\"medical\",\"send\",\"uscis\",\"ds261\",\"financial\",\"affidavit\",\"supplement\"]","related":["price"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"price","shown":false,"q":"How much does The A Company’s service cost?","text":"€5,000 per applicant. The government fee and the courier are paid separately, to them.","sources":[{"name":"The A Company: the eb-2 service","href":"https://theacompany.ai/","read":"2026-11-02"}],"quote":"service.price: 5000","related":["pay"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"pay","shown":false,"q":"How and when do I pay The A Company?","text":"In cash or with Stripe, when the service is done.","sources":[{"name":"The A Company: the eb-2 service","href":"https://theacompany.ai/","read":"2026-11-02"}],"quote":"service.payments: [{\"price\":{\"value\":2500,\"currency\":\"EUR\"},\"when\":\"at the start\",\"refunded\":false},{\"price\":{\"value\":2500,\"currency\":\"EUR\"},\"when\":\"before the interview\",\"refunded\":false}]","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"our-guarantee","shown":false,"q":"Can The A Company guarantee my visa?","text":"No. Nobody can: a consular officer interviews you and decides whether you qualify.","sources":[{"name":"U.S. Embassy in Kosovo: Nonimmigrant Visa FAQ","href":"https://xk.usembassy.gov/frequently-asked-questions-nonimmigrant-visa/","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"A U.S. Consular Officer will review your application at the time of the interview and decide whether you are qualified for a visa.","asked":[{"by":"us"}]}]}