{"$schema":"https://theacompany.ai/website/page.schema.json","page":{"id":"visa-us-fam-ir1-xk","kind":"service","lang":"en","path":"/visa/usa/ir-cr-f/ir1-cr1/kosovo","index":true,"for":{"service":"visa","country":"us","type":"fam-ir1","from":"xk"},"visa":{"name":"U.S. visa for a citizen's spouse (IR1/CR1)","country":"United States","from":"Kosovo"},"embassy":{"name":"U.S. Embassy Pristina","city":"Pristina","place":"Pristina, Kosovo"},"translations":{"sq":"/al/viza/amerikane/ir-cr-f/ir1-cr1/kosove"}},"seo":{"title":"U.S. IR1/CR1 visa for a citizen's spouse in Kosovo","description":"Your U.S. citizen spouse files the I-130 petition, the National Visa Center takes your case, pay the NVC fees, your sponsor signs the Affidavit of Support, your sponsor gathers the financial evidence, pay the U.S. visa fee, fill in the DS-260 application, prepare the documents, scan your documents, submit the documents, book the visa appointment, have the medical exam, send the documents the week before the interview, register online, 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/fam-ir1-kosovo.jpg"},"official_answers":{"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-9cd09f":{"name":"Immigrant Visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1) ","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/immigrant-visa-for-spouse.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.i130":{"quote":"The first step is to file a Petition for Alien Relative"},"step.uscis":{"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."}}},"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":"The first thing you need to do after receiving your NVC Welcome Letter is pay your processing fees. There are two processing fees:"}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-20e6df":{"name":"Affidavit of Support","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-1-submit-a-petition/affidavit-of-support.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.affidavit":{"quote":"The petitioner must complete Form I-864; however if the petitioner’s income is insufficient, a joint-sponsor may agree to also complete an I-864 on the applicant’s behalf."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-a7752e":{"name":"Financial 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.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.financial":{"quote":"evidence of their finances and other supporting documents. Complete the Financial Evidence Assistant"},"documents.taxpayments":{"quote":"NVC strongly recommends the submission of tax transcripts"},"documents.sponsortax":{"quote":"NVC strongly recommends the submission of tax transcripts"},"documents.taxtranscript":{"quote":"NVC strongly recommends the submission of tax transcripts"},"documents.tax1040":{"quote":"NVC strongly recommends the submission of tax transcripts"}}},"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"}}},"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"},"documents.ds260":{"quote":"you must print the confirmation page and bring it to your interview."}}},"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."},"documents.biopage":{"quote":"You and each family member immigrating with you must submit a photocopy of the biographic data page of a currently valid passport."}}},"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":"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.book":{"quote":"Your 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."},"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.delivery":{"quote":"Before your visa interview appointment, you must register"},"step.decision":{"quote":"A consular officer can make a decision on a visa application only after reviewing the formal application and interviewing the applicant."},"step.passport":{"quote":"Usually, you may pick up your approved visa and documents two working days after your interview."},"documents.i864":{"quote":"for every financial sponsor along with a photocopy of the sponsor’s IRS transcript or most recent U.S. federal income tax return"},"documents.w2":{"quote":"and the W-2 forms that go with it."},"documents.uspassport":{"quote":"(A photocopy of a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or lawful permanent resident card)."},"documents.naturalization":{"quote":"(A photocopy of a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or lawful permanent resident card)."},"documents.birth":{"quote":"Your _original_ birth certificate and a photocopy."},"documents.marriage":{"quote":"_If you are married:_ Your original marriage certificate."},"documents.relationshipevidence":{"quote":"between the petitioner and visa applicant (such as photographs, letters, or emails)."},"documents.familycert":{"quote":"between the petitioner and visa applicant (such as photographs, letters, or emails)."},"documents.appointment":{"quote":"A copy of your NVC interview letter"},"documents.passport":{"quote":"Unexpired passport valid for six (6) months after the date you intend to enter the United States."},"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.vaccination":{"quote":"A copy of your immunization records"},"documents.medical":{"quote":"Medical examination results in a sealed envelope (if the physician gives you these results)."},"documents.xray":{"quote":"If you receive X-rays during your medical examination, carry them with you and give them to the U.S. immigration authorities."},"documents.uscitizenshipcert":{"quote":"(A photocopy of a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or lawful permanent resident card)."},"documents.usbirth":{"quote":"(A photocopy of a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or lawful permanent resident card)."},"documents.crba":{"quote":"(A photocopy of a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or lawful permanent resident card)."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-a7cfd0":{"name":"Applicant 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-11-applicant-interview.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.interview":{"quote":"with your printed visa application (DS-260) confirmation page. A consular officer will interview you"}}},"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":"the United States no later than the visa expiration date printed on your visa."}}},"www-uscis-gov-i-130-d104d0":{"name":"Petition for Alien Relative","site":"www.uscis.gov","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-130","read":"2026-10-23","info":{"documents.i130a":{"quote":"Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for a Spouse Beneficiary"}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-8fe47a":{"name":"Submit a Petition","site":"travel.state.gov","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","info":{"documents.i797":{"quote":"Your immigrant petition must be approved by USCIS before your case can proceed to the National Visa Center."}}},"www-uscis-gov-green-card-green-card-processes-and-54548c":{"name":"Consular Processing","site":"www.uscis.gov","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/consular-processing","read":"2026-10-31","info":{"documents.i130":{"quote":"Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative"}}}},"sections":[{"section":"hero","id":"hero","title":"Apply for a U.S. visa for a citizen's spouse (IR1/CR1) in Kosovo","lead":"Your U.S. citizen spouse files the I-130 petition, the National Visa Center takes your case, pay the NVC fees, your sponsor signs the Affidavit of Support, your sponsor gathers the financial evidence, pay the U.S. visa fee, fill in the DS-260 application, prepare the documents, scan your documents, submit the documents, book the visa appointment, have the medical exam, send the documents the week before the interview, register online, 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 IR1 or CR1 visa…","slides":[{"id":"family-03","ask":"Can my husband bring me to America?","art":{"image":"/website/hero-family-03.webp","alt":"An adult daughter opens the front door to her visiting parents","credit":"The A Company"}},{"id":"family-10","ask":"When is it CR1 and not IR1?","art":{"image":"/website/hero-family-10.webp","alt":"A visiting mother and father take a candid group photo with their adult son","credit":"The A Company"}},{"id":"original-sightseeing-wonder","ask":"Can our children come with me?","art":{"image":"/website/hero-original-sightseeing-wonder.webp","alt":"A grandfather showing his grandchildren the Statue of Liberty","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 a citizen's spouse (IR1/CR1)","amount":"visa.price","to":"U.S. Department of State","note":"Paid to the U.S. Department of State, online to the NVC, for each immigrant of any age. Not refunded.","info":["visa.price","iv_fees"]},{"id":"affidavit","name":"Affidavit of Support review (I-864)","amount":"fam_aos_fee_usd","to":"U.S. Department of State","note":"Paid to the U.S. Department of State, once per case, when it is reviewed domestically.","info":["fam_aos_fee_usd"]},{"id":"service","name":"The A Company's service","amount":"service.price","to":"The A Company","note":"The A Company prepares the I-130 petition for your U.S. citizen spouse, pays the NVC fees, prepares the Affidavit of Support for your sponsor, prepares the list of financial evidence for your sponsor, pays the U.S. visa fee, fills in the DS-260 application, prepares the documents for the interview, scans your documents, submits the documents in CEAC, books the visa appointment, books the medical exam, sends the documents to the U.S. Embassy the week before the interview, registers you online for the return of your passport, 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":"petition","name":"Your U.S. citizen spouse files the I-130 petition","text":"Your husband or wife, a U.S. citizen, files Form I-130 with USCIS for you, with Form I-130A, and pays USCIS {ir1_i130_paper}, or {ir1_i130_online} online. Its approval alone does not give you a visa.","tone":"plain","info":["ir1_petition","fam_i130","ir1_i130_paper","ir1_i130_online"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/i797f.webp","alt":"The I-797 approval notice of the petition for the IR1/CR1 visa"},"href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-130","documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"i130a","title":"Form I-130A","text":"The Supplemental Information for a Spouse Beneficiary.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.i130a"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/i130a.webp","alt":"Form I-130A, the supplemental information for a spouse beneficiary"}},{"id":"i130","title":"Form I-130","text":"The Petition for Alien Relative. It is completed and submitted to the correct USCIS address.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.i130"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/i130.webp","alt":"Form I-130, the petition for an alien relative"}}]}]},{"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-fam-ir1.webp","alt":"The NVC Welcome Letter with the case number"},"href":"https://ceac.state.gov/IV/","documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"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/i797f.webp","alt":"The I-797 approval notice of the petition for the IR1/CR1 visa"}}]}]},{"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":"affidavit","name":"Your sponsor signs the Affidavit of Support","text":"With Form I-864, your sponsor accepts financial responsibility for you in the United States. It is legally enforceable.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_affidavit","iv_affidavit_enforceable","iv_aos"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/i864.webp","alt":"Form I-864, Affidavit of Support"},"href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-864","documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"i864","title":"Form I-864","text":"The Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act. Completed by the sponsor, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.i864"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/i864.webp","alt":"Form I-864, Affidavit of Support"}}]}]},{"id":"financial","name":"Your sponsor gathers the financial evidence","text":"Each financial sponsor gathers evidence of their finances and the other supporting documents for the Affidavit of Support.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_financial"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/taxreturn.webp","alt":"The sponsor's IRS tax return transcript"},"documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"taxpayments","title":"Proof of tax payments","text":"Current proof of tax payments.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.taxpayments"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/taxpayments.webp","alt":"The sponsor's IRS account transcript, showing the tax paid"}},{"id":"sponsortax","title":"Tax forms of the person paying","text":"The most recent tax forms of the person who pays for you. The originals.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.sponsortax"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/sponsortax.webp","alt":"The sponsor's most recent U.S. tax return, Form 1040"}},{"id":"taxtranscript","title":"IRS tax transcript","text":"A transcript of the tax return from the IRS. It shows income and tax payments.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.taxtranscript"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/taxtranscript.webp","alt":"The sponsor's IRS tax return transcript for the most recent year"}},{"id":"tax1040","title":"U.S. federal tax return (IRS Form 1040)","text":"The U.S. federal income tax return, Form 1040. It shows income and tax payments.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.tax1040"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/tax1040.webp","alt":"A U.S. federal tax return, Form 1040"}},{"id":"w2","title":"Form W-2","text":"The Forms W-2 that go with the tax return. From the most recent tax year.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.w2"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/w2.webp","alt":"Form W-2, the wage and tax statement from the employer"}}]}]},{"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-fam-ir1.webp","alt":"The visa fee receipt for the IR1/CR1 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/ds260f.webp","alt":"The DS-260 confirmation page for the IR1/CR1 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, and your relative's Affidavit of Support.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_civil","iv_civil_translation","iv_aos"],"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/ds260f.webp","alt":"The DS-260 confirmation page for the IR1/CR1 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":"uspassport","title":"Petitioner's U.S. passport","text":"The petitioner's U.S. passport. A photocopy. It shows the petitioner's status in the United States.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.uspassport"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/uspassport.webp","alt":"A copy of the petitioner's U.S. passport"}},{"id":"naturalization","title":"Naturalization certificate","text":"The petitioner's naturalization certificate. A copy. It shows the petitioner's status in the United States.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.naturalization"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/naturalization.webp","alt":"The petitioner's certificate of naturalization"}},{"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":"marriage","title":"Marriage certificate","text":"Your marriage certificate. The original.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.marriage"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/marriage.webp","alt":"A Kosovo marriage certificate"}},{"id":"relationshipevidence","title":"Evidence of the relationship","text":"Evidence of your relationship with the petitioner, such as photographs, letters or emails.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.relationshipevidence"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/relationshipevidence.webp","alt":"A printed thread of e-mails between the two"}},{"id":"familycert","title":"Family relationship certificate","text":"A document such as a family relationship certificate. It proves your relationship to the family member.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.familycert"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/familycert.webp","alt":"A Kosovo declaration on joint household"}},{"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":"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/medicalf.webp","alt":"The panel physician's medical exam form (DS-2054)"}},{"id":"uscitizenshipcert","title":"Certificate of citizenship","text":"The petitioner's U.S. certificate of citizenship. A copy. It shows that the petitioner is a U.S. citizen.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.uscitizenshipcert"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/uscitizenshipcert.webp","alt":"The petitioner's certificate of citizenship"}},{"id":"usbirth","title":"Petitioner's U.S. birth certificate","text":"The petitioner's U.S. birth certificate. A copy. It shows that the petitioner is a U.S. citizen.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.usbirth"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/usbirth.webp","alt":"The petitioner's U.S. birth certificate"}},{"id":"crba","title":"Consular Report of Birth Abroad","text":"The petitioner's Consular Report of Birth Abroad. A copy. It shows that the petitioner is a U.S. citizen.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.crba"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/crba.webp","alt":"The petitioner's Consular Report of Birth Abroad"}}]}]},{"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"},"documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"biopage","title":"Copy of the passport bio page","text":"A photocopy of the biographic data page of your passport. One copy.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.biopage"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/biopage.webp","alt":"A photocopy of the passport's data page"}}]}]},{"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":"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":"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/medicalf.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":"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":"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":"fam-ir1","alt":"The IR1/CR1 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/uscisf.webp","alt":"The USCIS Immigrant Fee receipt for the IR1/CR1 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 IR1 or CR1 visa","placeholder":"Help me with the IR1 or CR1 visa…"},{"section":"faq","id":"faq","style":"columns","menu":"Questions","title":"Questions? Answers.","items":[{"id":"cost","q":"How much does the IR1 or CR1 visa cost in Kosovo?","text":"{visa.price} per immigrant, paid to the NVC, and {fam_aos_fee_usd} for the Affidavit of Support review when it is reviewed domestically. Your U.S. citizen spouse pays USCIS {ir1_i130_paper} for the I-130, or {ir1_i130_online} online.","info":["visa.price","fam_aos_fee_usd","ir1_i130_paper","ir1_i130_online"],"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 IR1 or CR1 visa cost in Kosovo?","text":"$325 per immigrant, paid to the NVC, and $120 for the Affidavit of Support review when it is reviewed domestically. Your U.S. citizen spouse pays USCIS $675 for the I-130, or $625 online.","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":"G-1055, Fee Schedule","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/g-1055.pdf","read":"2026-10-28"}],"quote":"Immediate relative and family preference applications (processed on the basis of an approved I-130, I-600 or I-800 petition)\n$325.00\nAffidavit of Support Review (only when reviewed domestically)\n$120.00\n| I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (uscis.gov/i-130) | General filing | Paper Filing: $675 Online Filing: $625 |\n| I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (uscis.gov/i-130) | General filing | Paper Filing: $675 Online Filing: $625 |"},{"id":"ir1-who","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"Who can get an IR1 or CR1 visa?","text":"The legally married husband or wife of a U.S. citizen. Living together without a marriage does not count.","sources":[{"name":"Green Card for Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizen","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-eligibility/green-card-for-immediate-relatives-of-us-citizen","read":"2026-10-23"},{"name":"Immigrant Visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/immigrant-visa-for-spouse.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"The spouse of a U.S. citizen;\nA spouse is a legally wedded husband or wife.\nMerely living together does not qualify a marriage for immigration."},{"id":"ir1-cr","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"When is it CR1 and not IR1?","text":"When your marriage is less than 2 years old on the day the visa is issued. Your Green Card is then conditional for 2 years: in the 90 days before it expires you and your spouse file Form I-751, $750 to USCIS or $700 online, or you lose your permanent residence.","sources":[{"name":"9 FAM 502.2, Family-Based IV Classifications","href":"https://fam.state.gov/fam/09FAM/09FAM050202.html","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"Removing Conditions on Permanent Residence Based on Marriage","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/after-we-grant-your-green-card/conditional-permanent-residence/removing-conditions-on-permanent-residence-based-on-marriage","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"Conditional Permanent Residence","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/after-we-grant-your-green-card/conditional-permanent-residence","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"G-1055, Fee Schedule","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/forms/g-1055.pdf","read":"2026-10-28"}],"quote":"You\nclassify the spouse of a U.S. citizen or the stepchild of a U.S. citizen as a\nconditional immigrant when the visa is issued if the basis for immigration is a\nmarriage that was entered into less than two years before the date of visa\nissuance.\nAs a conditional permanent resident, you receive a Green Card valid for the 2 years after you obtain conditional permanent resident status. This card is evidence that you have the right to live and work in the United States.\nTo remove the conditions on your permanent resident status, you must file a petition within the 90-day period before your conditional Green Card expires.\nTo remove the conditions on a Green Card based on marriage, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove the Conditions of Residence.\n| I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence (uscis.gov/i-751) | General filing | Paper Filing: $750 Online Filing: $700 |\n| I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence (uscis.gov/i-751) | General filing | Paper Filing: $750 Online Filing: $700 |\nIf your conditions are not removed, you will lose your permanent resident status and you will become removable from the United States."},{"id":"ir1-children","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"Can our children come on my IR1 or CR1 visa?","text":"Not on yours. Family members of an immediate relative get no derivative status: your U.S. citizen spouse files a separate I-130 for each child.","sources":[{"name":"Immigrant Visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/immigrant-visa-for-spouse.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 6, Part B, Chapter 2 - General Eligibility Requirements","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-6-part-b-chapter-2","read":"2026-10-28"},{"name":"I-130, Petition for Alien Relative","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-130","read":"2026-10-23"}],"quote":"A child does not receive derivative status in an immediate relative (IR) petition. This is different from the family second preference (F2) petition where a child is included in his/her parent's F2 petition.\nGenerally, family members of an immediate relative beneficiary are not eligible to accompany or follow to join the immediate relative as derivative beneficiaries.\nIf you are a U.S. Citizen petitioning for your spouse, you must also submit a separate Form I-130 for each child if you and your spouse share biological children, stepchildren, or"},{"id":"ir1-prior","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"My U.S. spouse was married before. What do I need?","text":"Proof that every earlier marriage of your spouse ended: a final divorce decree, a death certificate or annulment papers, the original or a certified copy.","sources":[{"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":"_If you are applying for an IR1, CR1, or F2A visa as the spouse of a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident and your petitioning spouse was previously married:_  You must obtain evidence of the termination of **EVERY** prior marriage your petitioning spouse has had. This evidence must be an original or certified copy of one of the following documents:  FINAL legal divorce decree, death certificate, or annulment papers."},{"id":"ir1-fee","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"How much does the I-130 petition cost?","text":"Your U.S. citizen spouse pays USCIS $675 for the I-130 on paper, or $625 online. Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, has no USCIS fee.","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-130 Petition for Alien Relative (uscis.gov/i-130) | General filing | Paper Filing: $675 Online Filing: $625 |\n| I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (uscis.gov/i-130) | General filing | Paper Filing: $675 Online Filing: $625 |\n| I-864 Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA (uscis.gov/i-864) | General filing | $0 |"},{"id":"fam-types","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"What is the difference between IR, CR and F family immigrant visas?","text":"IR (immediate relative) is for the spouse, the unmarried child under 21, or the parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21; their number is not limited. CR is the spouse's visa when you have been married less than 2 years. F (family preference) is for more distant relatives of a U.S. citizen and some relatives of a permanent resident; their number is limited each year.","sources":[{"name":"Family Immigration","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"Green Card for Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizen","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-eligibility/green-card-for-immediate-relatives-of-us-citizen","read":"2026-10-23"},{"name":"Immigrant Visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/immigrant-visa-for-spouse.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Immediate Relative\n– these visas are based on a close family relationship with a U.S. citizen, such as a spouse, child or parent. The number of immigrants in these categories is not limited each fiscal year.\nFamily Preference\n– these visas are for specific, more distant, family relationships with a U.S. citizen and some specified relationships with a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR). The number of immigrants in these categories is limited each fiscal year.\nThe spouse of a U.S. citizen;\nThe unmarried child under 21 years of age of a U.S. citizen; or\nThe parent of a U.S. citizen (if the U.S. citizen is 21 years of age or older).\nThe unmarried child under 21 years of age of a U.S. citizen; or\nThe parent of a U.S. citizen (if the U.S. citizen is 21 years of age or older).\nIf you have been married for less than two years when your foreign citizen spouse enters the United States on an immigrant visa, his or her permanent resident status is considered “conditional.” The immigrant visa is a conditional resident visa\n(CR) visa, not an immediate relative visa\n(IR) visa.\nYou and your spouse must apply together to USCIS to remove the conditional status within the ninety days before the two-year anniversary of your spouse’s entry into the United States on his or her immigrant visa.\nIf you have been married for less than two years when your foreign citizen spouse enters the United States on an immigrant visa","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"fam-i130","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"Which form starts a family immigrant visa?","text":"Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, filed with USCIS by your relative. A separate I-130 is filed for each relative unless they can be a derivative, and for a spouse Form I-130A as well. Filing or approval alone gives you no immigration status.","sources":[{"name":"I-130, Petition for Alien Relative","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-130","read":"2026-10-23"}],"quote":"Submitting Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is the first step to help an eligible relative apply to immigrate to the United States and apply for a Green Card. The filing or approval of this petition does not give your relative any immigration status or benefit.\nYou must file a separate Form I-130 for each eligible relative unless they can be considered a derivative beneficiary.\nIf you submit a petition for your spouse, you must also submit Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary.","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"fam-wait","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"How long is the wait for a family immigrant visa?","text":"For immediate relatives (IR) a visa is always available. In limited categories (F) you wait for a visa number: the wait depends on your priority date, the day the petition was filed, posted monthly in the Visa Bulletin. After that, the time varies from case to case.","sources":[{"name":"I-130, Petition for Alien Relative","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-130","read":"2026-10-23"},{"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"},{"name":"Immigrant Visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/immigrant-visa-for-spouse.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Certain relatives must wait until an immigrant visa number is available before they can file Form I-485 (to adjust their status if they are in the United States) or request an immigrant visa at an embassy or consulate through consular processing (if they are outside the United States). However, if your relative qualifies as an immediate relative, an immigrant visa is always available.\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\nThe length of time varies from case to case and cannot be predicted for individual cases with any accuracy.","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/immigrant-visa-for-spouse.html","q":"How Long Does It Take?"}]},{"id":"fam-children","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"Are my children included in my spouse's family petition?","text":"In a permanent resident's F2A petition, yes: a child is included in the parent's petition. In a U.S. citizen's IR petition, no: the citizen files a separate I-130 for each child.","sources":[{"name":"Immigrant Visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/immigrant-visa-for-spouse.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"I-130, Petition for Alien Relative","href":"https://www.uscis.gov/i-130","read":"2026-10-23"}],"quote":"A child does not receive derivative status in an immediate relative (IR) petition. This is different from the family second preference (F2) petition where a child is included in his/her parent's F2 petition.\nSubmitting Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is the first step to help an eligible relative apply to immigrate to the United States and apply for a Green Card. The filing or approval of this petition does not give your relative any immigration status or benefit.\nYou must file a separate Form I-130 for each eligible relative unless they can be considered a derivative beneficiary.\nIf you submit a petition for your spouse, you must also submit Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary.","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"fam-upgrade","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"My petitioner became a U.S. citizen. What changes?","text":"A spouse or minor child moves from F2A to IR, which has no yearly limit. Send NVC proof of citizenship: the biodata page of the U.S. passport or the naturalization certificate. Children who were on the F2A petition now need their own petitions.","sources":[{"name":"Immigrant Visas Processing - General FAQs","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/national-visa-center/immigrant-visas-processing-general-faqs.html","read":"2026-10-14"}],"quote":"Effect on spouses and minor children: If you filed a petition for your spouse or minor children (under age 21 and unmarried) while you were an LPR, the visa category was family second preference (F2A). When you become a U.S. citizen, NVC will upgrade the petition to an immediate relative (IR) visa category. This benefits your immigrating family member(s) because there are no limits on the number of visas that can be issued each year in the IR categories.\nA copy of the biodata page of your U.S. passport; or\nA copy of your certificate of naturalization.\nImportant: If the family second preference (F2A) petition that you filed for your spouse included your minor children, now that you are a U.S. citizen you must file new and separate petitions for each child.","related":["fam-children"],"asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/national-visa-center/immigrant-visas-processing-general-faqs.html","q":"When I filed a petition for my relative I was a Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder). I recently became a U.S. citizen. How does this affect my family members?"}]},{"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":"fam-fee","step":"pay","shown":true,"q":"How much does a family immigrant visa cost?","text":"$325 per person: the immigrant visa application processing fee, paid to NVC for each immigrant of any age, and not refundable. The Affidavit of Support review is $120 when it is reviewed in the United States. The I-130 petition is paid to USCIS, and the medical examination separately.","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":"Immigrant Visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/immigrant-visa-for-spouse.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Immediate relative and family preference applications (processed on the basis of an approved I-130, I-600 or I-800 petition)\n$325.00\nAffidavit of Support Review (only when reviewed domestically)\n$120.00\nFiling an immigrant Petition for Alien Relative, Form I-130 (this fee is charged by USCIS).\nProcessing an immigrant visa application, Form DS-260 (see\nMedical examination and required vaccinations (costs vary)\nFees must be paid for each intending immigrant, regardless of age, and are not refundable.","related":["iv-fees"],"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","iv-affidavit"],"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-affidavit","step":"documents","shown":true,"q":"What is the Affidavit of Support (I-864) for a U.S. immigrant visa?","text":"A form the petitioner signs to accept financial responsibility for you. The sponsor must be at least 18, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and live in the United States, and for most sponsors the income must reach 125% of the poverty guidelines. If it does not, a joint sponsor can also sign one.","sources":[{"name":"Step 4: Complete Affidavit of Support","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/step-1-submit-a-petition/affidavit-of-support.html","read":"2026-10-11"},{"name":"I-864 Affidavit of Support (FAQs)","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/i-864-affidavit-faqs.html","read":"2026-10-14"}],"quote":"An Affidavit of Support, also called the Form I-864, is a document an individual signs to accept financial responsibility for the applicant who is coming to live in the United States. The person who signs the Affidavit of Support is also called the “sponsor.” The petitioner must complete Form I-864; however if the petitioner’s income is insufficient, a joint-sponsor may agree to also complete an I-864 on the applicant’s behalf.\nA financial sponsor, including a petitioner, must be at least 18 years old and either a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (LPR). The sponsor must also have a domicile (residence) in the United States.\n125% of HHS Poverty Guidelines\nFor all other sponsors","asked":[{"by":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/i-864-affidavit-faqs.html","q":"Who can be a Financial Sponsor?"}]},{"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 fam-ir1 service","href":"https://theacompany.ai/","read":"2026-11-02"}],"quote":"service.includes: [\"petition\",\"fees\",\"affidavit\",\"financial\",\"pay\",\"ds260\",\"documents\",\"scan\",\"submit\",\"book\",\"medical\",\"send\",\"delivery\",\"uscis\",\"ds261\"]","related":["price"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"price","shown":false,"q":"How much does The A Company’s service cost?","text":"€2,500 per applicant. The government fee and the courier are paid separately, to them.","sources":[{"name":"The A Company: the fam-ir1 service","href":"https://theacompany.ai/","read":"2026-11-02"}],"quote":"service.price: 2500","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 fam-ir1 service","href":"https://theacompany.ai/","read":"2026-11-02"}],"quote":"service.payments: [{\"price\":{\"value\":1250,\"currency\":\"EUR\"},\"when\":\"at the start\",\"refunded\":false},{\"price\":{\"value\":1250,\"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"}]}]}