What is the difference between NVC and USCIS?

When considering the EB-3 visa, it is important to know the agencies that oversee the immigration process, two of which are USCIS and NVC. Understanding the role of each can help clarify doubts and avoid confusion during your case.

USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) is the agency that receives and evaluates immigration petitions filed within the United States. In the context of the EB-3, for example, the employer initiates the process by submitting a petition to USCIS, where it is carefully reviewed and, if everything complies with immigration laws, approved. This step is fundamental as it verifies whether the applicant and employer meet all the legal requirements for the visa.

The NVC (National Visa Center) takes over after the petition has been approved by USCIS. The NVC is responsible for organizing the necessary documentation and preparing the case for the consular stage. This includes collecting forms, fees, and supporting documents, as well as scheduling the interview at the United States consulate or embassy abroad. In summary, while USCIS focuses on the analysis and initial approval of the immigration petition, the NVC orchestrates the process for obtaining the visa, ensuring all documents are in order for the consular interview.

It is important to emphasize the need to strictly follow United States immigration laws during all stages of the process. Whenever possible, seeking guidance from specialized and trustworthy professionals can be crucial to avoid complications, scams, or misleading information that circulates through marketing campaigns promising miraculous results. Each step of the process must be handled with care and attention, ensuring that all legal procedures are respected.

In short, the main difference between USCIS and NVC lies in the role each agency plays: USCIS approves the immigration petition and NVC prepares and organizes the transition to the consular interview, completing the necessary steps to obtain the EB-3 visa. Staying informed and acting according to official guidelines is the safest path to success in your immigration process.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.