{"$schema":"https://theacompany.ai/website/page.schema.json","page":{"id":"visa-us-sb-xk","kind":"service","lang":"en","path":"/visa/usa/sb/kosovo","index":true,"for":{"service":"visa","country":"us","type":"sb","from":"xk"},"visa":{"name":"U.S. visa for returning residents (SB-1)","country":"United States","from":"Kosovo"},"embassy":{"name":"U.S. Embassy Pristina","city":"Pristina","place":"Pristina, Kosovo"},"translations":{"sq":"/al/viza/amerikane/sb/kosove"}},"seo":{"title":"U.S. SB-1 visa for returning residents in Kosovo","description":"Apply for returning resident status, book the visa appointment, pay the DS-117 fee, the consular officer decides your returning resident status, fill in the DS-260 application, register online, pay the U.S. visa fee, prepare the documents, send the documents the week before the interview, have the medical exam, attend the interview, the consular officer decides on your visa, get your passport, travel back to.","image":"/website/social/en/sb-kosovo.jpg"},"official_answers":{"xk-usembassy-gov-returning-resident-visa-549bbb":{"name":"Returning Resident Visa - U.S. Embassy in Kosovo","site":"xk.usembassy.gov","href":"https://xk.usembassy.gov/returning-resident-visa","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.ds117":{"quote":"Complete form DS-117 and bring it to the appointment;"},"step.book":{"quote":"Email PristinaVISAS@state.gov to schedule an appointment to attend a preliminary interview with a consular officer who will determine your eligibility for returning resident status."},"step.ds117fee":{"quote":"At the time of your appointment, you will be required to pay a non-refundable fee of $180.00 to the Embassy cashier. Fees must be paid in cash, either dollars or euros but not a combination of both."},"step.status":{"quote":"If your application to determine returning resident status is approved, the U.S. Consular Section will provide you with an instructions package for the remainder of the processing for your Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa."},"documents.ds117":{"quote":"Complete form DS-117 and bring it to the appointment;"}}},"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.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."},"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":"It is _your responsibility_ to schedule and attend a medical exam with one of the approved doctors listed below at least 8 business days before your interview at the U.S. Embassy.\nYou must pay all medical examination fees, including x-ray and blood test fees, directly to the physician."},"step.documents":{"quote":"Please use the list that follows so you know the items every applicant must bring to the immigrant visa 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."},"step.passport":{"quote":"Usually, you may pick up your approved visa and documents two working days after your interview."},"step.travel":{"quote":"The medical report must be less than six (6) months old when you enter the United States as an immigrant."},"documents.appointment":{"quote":"Your visa interview appointment letter"},"documents.vaccination":{"quote":"A copy of your immunization records"},"documents.passport":{"quote":"Unexpired passport valid for six (6) months after the date you intend to enter"},"documents.photo":{"quote":"Two (2) color passport-size photographs of every person applying"},"documents.ds260":{"quote":"DS-260 Confirmation Page of the Form DS-260 Application for an Immigrant Visa you submitted online"},"documents.birth":{"quote":"Your _original_ birth certificate and a photocopy."},"documents.medical":{"quote":"results in a sealed envelope (if the physician gives you these results)."}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-visa-i-fbdeb7":{"name":"Fees for Visa Services","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/fees/fees-visa-services.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.pay":{"quote":"special immigrant visa applicants, returning resident (SB-1) applicants, and all others, except DV program selectees) | $205.00 |"}}},"travel-state-gov-content-travel-en-us-visas-immigr-b8cc25":{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","site":"travel.state.gov","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11","info":{"step.interview":{"quote":"You will need to be interviewed for both your application for returning resident status, and usually later for the immigrant visa."}}},"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":{"documents.returning":{"quote":"Proof of entitlement\nto returning resident status."}}}},"sections":[{"section":"hero","id":"hero","title":"Apply for a U.S. visa for returning residents (SB-1) in Kosovo","lead":"Apply for returning resident status, book the visa appointment, pay the DS-117 fee, the consular officer decides your returning resident status, fill in the DS-260 application, register online, pay the U.S. visa fee, prepare the documents, send the documents the week before the interview, have the medical exam, attend the interview, the consular officer decides on your visa, get your passport, travel back to.","placeholder":"Ask about this visa…","slides":[{"id":"landmark-04","ask":"I stayed out of America too long. What now?","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":"family-10","ask":"Can I go back with my Green Card?","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":"What is the SB-1 visa?","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":"ds117-fee","name":"Returning resident application fee (DS-117)","amount":"sb_ds117_fee_usd","to":"U.S. Department of State","note":"Paid to the U.S. Department of State, for Form DS-117.","info":["sb_ds117_fee_usd"]},{"id":"visa-fee","name":"Fee for the U.S. visa for returning residents (SB-1)","amount":"visa.price","to":"U.S. Department of State","note":"Paid to the U.S. Department of State, only if the returning resident application is approved.","info":["visa.price","sb_fees"]},{"id":"service","name":"The A Company's service","amount":"service.price","to":"The A Company","note":"The A Company prepares the DS-117 for returning resident status, books the visa appointment, tells you how to pay the DS-117 fee at the Embassy cashier, fills in the DS-260 application, registers you online for the return of your passport, pays the U.S. visa fee, prepares the documents for the interview, sends the documents to the U.S. Embassy the week before the interview, and books the medical exam. 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":"ds117","name":"Apply for returning resident status (DS-117)","text":"A permanent resident who stayed outside the United States longer than {sb_card_years} year, or beyond the Re-entry Permit, needs a new immigrant visa. Apply at the embassy with Form DS-117, at least {sb_advance_months} months before you travel.","tone":"plain","info":["sb_what","sb_card_years","sb_advance_months"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ds117.webp","alt":"Form DS-117, the returning resident application"}},{"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":"ds117fee","name":"Pay the DS-117 fee at the Embassy cashier","text":"In cash, in dollars or in euros, but not a mix of both. At the time of your appointment. It is $180. It is not refunded.","tone":"plain","info":["step.ds117fee"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ds117fee.webp","alt":"The Embassy cashier's receipt for the DS-117 fee"}},{"id":"status","name":"The consular officer decides your returning resident status","text":"If it is approved, the Consular Section gives you an instructions package for the rest of the Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa process.","tone":"plain","info":["step.status"],"documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"id":"ds117","title":"Form DS-117","text":"The application to determine returning resident status. You complete it and bring it to the appointment.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.ds117"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ds117.webp","alt":"Form DS-117"}}]}],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/ds117.webp","alt":"Form DS-117"}},{"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/ds260sb.webp","alt":"The DS-260 confirmation page for the SB-1 visa"}},{"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":"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-sb.webp","alt":"The visa fee receipt for the SB-1 visa"}},{"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/ds260sb.webp","alt":"The DS-260 confirmation page for the SB-1 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":"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/medicalsb.webp","alt":"The panel physician's medical exam form (DS-2054)"}},{"id":"returning","title":"Proof of entitlement to returning resident status","text":"Proof that you are entitled to returning resident status.","tone":"plain","info":["documents.returning"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/returning.webp","alt":"The reentry permit, the main proof of returning resident status"}}]}]},{"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":"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/medicalsb.webp","alt":"The panel physician's medical exam form (DS-2054)"},"documents":[{"id":"required","title":"Required","items":[{"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":"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":"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":"sb","alt":"The SB-1 visa in a passport"}},{"id":"travel","name":"Travel back to the United States","text":"With the SB-1 immigrant visa, enter the United States before the expiration date printed on the visa.","tone":"plain","info":["iv_valid"],"art":{"image":"/website/docs/itinerary.webp","alt":"The Turkish Airlines e-ticket itinerary: Pristina, Istanbul, San Francisco and back"}}]},{"section":"cta","id":"cta","title":"Ask us about this visa","placeholder":"Help me with this visa…"},{"section":"faq","id":"faq","style":"columns","menu":"Questions","title":"Questions? Answers.","items":[{"q":"How much does the U.S. returning resident visa (SB-1) cost in Kosovo?","text":"{sb_ds117_fee_usd} for Form DS-117, and {visa.price} for the visa if the application is approved.","info":["sb_ds117_fee_usd","visa.price","sb_fees"],"id":"cost","step":"pay"}]},{"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":"iv-petition","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"How does a U.S. immigrant visa start?","text":"Not for an SB-1. If your returning resident application is approved, no petition needs to be filed for you. The U.S. embassy or consulate gives you the instructions for the rest.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"If your application for returning resident status is approved, this eliminates the requirement that an immigrant visa petition be filed on your behalf with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).\nThe U.S. Embassy or Consulate will provide you with specific instructions for the remainder of the processing for your Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa.","related":["iv-nvc"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"iv-nvc","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"What happens after USCIS approves the petition?","text":"There is no petition for an SB-1. The U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply gives you the instructions for the rest of the processing.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"If your application for returning resident status is approved, this eliminates the requirement that an immigrant visa petition be filed on your behalf with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).\nThe U.S. Embassy or Consulate will provide you with specific instructions for the remainder of the processing for your Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa.","related":["iv-fees","iv-civil"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"sb-what","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"Who needs a returning resident (SB-1) visa?","text":"A permanent resident who stayed outside the United States longer than 1 year, or beyond the 2-year validity of a Re-entry Permit, and now needs a new immigrant visa to return. The SB-1 is for those who stayed away for reasons beyond their control.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"A permanent resident (called lawful permanent resident or LPR) or conditional resident (CR) who has remained outside the United States for longer than one year, or beyond the validity period of a Re-entry Permit, will require a new immigrant visa to enter the United States and resume permanent residence.\nIf you are an LPR unable to return to the United States within the travel validity period of the green card (1 year) or the validity of the Re-entry Permit (2 years), you may be eligible and can apply at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa.\nthe travel validity period of the green card (1 year)\nthe validity of the Re-entry Permit (2 years)","related":["sb-qualify","sb-military"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"sb-qualify","step":"before","shown":true,"q":"What must I prove for an SB-1 visa?","text":"That you were a permanent resident when you left the United States, that you left intending to return and still intend to, and that a long stay abroad was caused by reasons beyond your control.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Had the status of a lawful permanent resident at the time of departure from the United States;\nDeparted from the United States with the intention of returning and have not abandoned this intention; and\nAre returning to the United States from a temporary visit abroad and, if the stay abroad was protracted, this was caused by reasons beyond your control and for which you were not responsible.","related":["sb-documents"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"sb-military","step":"before","shown":false,"q":"My spouse or parent serves the U.S. government abroad. Do I need an SB-1 visa?","text":"No. The spouse or child of a U.S. armed forces member, or of a U.S. government civilian employee stationed abroad on official orders, may enter with the Green Card even if it has expired, as long as they have not abandoned their status and the spouse or parent is returning.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"If you are the spouse or child of a member of the U.S. Armed Forces or of a civilian employee of the U.S. government stationed abroad on official orders, you may use your Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551, to enter the United States even if it has expired. Therefore, you would not need a Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa, as long as you:\nHave not abandoned your LPR status; and\nYour spouse or parent is returning to the United States.","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"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":"cost","step":"pay","shown":true,"q":"How much does the U.S. returning resident visa (SB-1) cost in Kosovo?","text":"$180 for Form DS-117, and $205 for the visa if the application is approved.","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":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Application for Determining Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117\n$180.00\nOther immigrant visa applications (including approved I-360 self-petitioners, special immigrant visa applicants, returning resident (SB-1) applicants, and all others, except DV program selectees)\n$205.00\nApplication to Determine Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117.\nAdditionally, if you are approved for Returning Resident (SB-1) status, the following fees will be required based on the immigrant visa processing explained below:\nForm DS-260 application processing fee\nMedical exam and vaccination fees"},{"id":"iv-fees","step":"pay","shown":false,"q":"Which fees do I pay for an SB-1 visa, and in what order?","text":"First the Form DS-117 fee. If you are approved for returning resident status, the DS-260 application processing fee and the medical exam and vaccination fees. The U.S. embassy or consulate gives you the instructions.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Application to Determine Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117.\nAdditionally, if you are approved for Returning Resident (SB-1) status, the following fees will be required based on the immigrant visa processing explained below:\nForm DS-260 application processing fee\nMedical exam and vaccination fees\nIf your application for returning resident status is approved, this eliminates the requirement that an immigrant visa petition be filed on your behalf with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).\nThe U.S. Embassy or Consulate will provide you with specific instructions for the remainder of the processing for your Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa.","related":["iv-ds260"],"asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"sb-fee","step":"pay","shown":true,"q":"How much does the SB-1 visa cost?","text":"$180 for Form DS-117, the returning resident application. If it is approved, $205 for the immigrant visa application (DS-260), plus the medical examination and vaccinations.","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":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"Application for Determining Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117\n$180.00\nOther immigrant visa applications (including approved I-360 self-petitioners, special immigrant visa applicants, returning resident (SB-1) applicants, and all others, except DV program selectees)\n$205.00\nApplication to Determine Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117.\nAdditionally, if you are approved for Returning Resident (SB-1) status, the following fees will be required based on the immigrant visa processing explained below:\nForm DS-260 application processing fee\nMedical exam and vaccination fees","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"sb-apply","step":"book","shown":false,"q":"When and where do I apply for an SB-1 visa?","text":"At the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, before you travel: at least 3 months ahead, if possible. You are usually interviewed twice: first for returning resident status, later for the immigrant visa, which also needs a medical examination.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"If you wish to apply for a Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa, you should contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in advance of your intended travel (at least three months in advance, if possible) to permit sufficient time for visa processing.\nYou will need to be interviewed for both your application for returning resident status, and usually later for the immigrant visa. An SB-1 applicant is required to establish eligibility for an immigrant visa and have a medical examination.","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"id":"sb-documents","step":"documents","shown":true,"q":"Which documents do I need for an SB-1 visa?","text":"Form DS-117, your Green Card (Form I-551), your Re-entry Permit if you have one, and proof of your travel dates, of your ties to the United States and intention to return, and that your long stay abroad was beyond your control.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"A completed Application to Determine Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117\nYour Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551\nYour Re-entry Permit, if available\nDates of travel outside of the United States (Examples: airline tickets, passport stamps, etc.)\nProof of your ties to the United States and your intention to return (Examples: tax returns, and evidence of economic, family, and social ties to the United States)\nProof that your protracted stay outside of the United States was for reasons beyond your control (Examples: medical incapacitation, employment with a U.S. company, etc.)","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"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":"sb-refused","step":"interview","shown":false,"q":"What if my returning resident (SB-1) application is refused?","text":"If the officer finds you gave up your U.S. residence, a nonimmigrant visa may be possible if you have a residence abroad you will return to. Otherwise you may have to apply for an immigrant visa again, in the category you first immigrated in.","sources":[{"name":"Returning Resident Visas","href":"https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/returning-resident.html","read":"2026-10-11"}],"quote":"If, after reviewing your Application to Determine Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117, and supporting documents, the consular officer determines that you do not meet the criteria for a Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa on the grounds that you have abandoned or relinquished your residence in the United States, it may or may not be possible to obtain a nonimmigrant visa depending on whether you have established a residence abroad to which you will return. If you cannot submit convincing evidence of compelling ties abroad, you may have to apply for an immigrant visa on the same basis and under the same category by which you immigrated originally.","asked":[{"by":"us"}]},{"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","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":"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 sb service","href":"https://theacompany.ai/","read":"2026-11-02"}],"quote":"service.includes: [\"ds117\",\"book\",\"ds117fee\",\"ds260\",\"delivery\",\"pay\",\"documents\",\"send\",\"medical\"]","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 sb 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 sb 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"}]}]}