Who receives the green card first at the consulate?

In this United States immigration process, it is important to understand how the issuance of the much sought-after green card works, especially when we talk about the EB-4 visa. This category includes some special groups, such as certain religious workers, among others, who may qualify for permanent residency. However, there are some essential details about how and when the green card is actually delivered – and this understanding is crucial to avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary concerns during the process.

In processes conducted by the consulate, what happens immediately is the issuance of the immigrant visa, which is stamped on the beneficiary’s passport after the consular interview. This visa is the document that allows entry into the United States. Only after arrival in the country does the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) arrange for the green card to be sent, which formally proves the status of permanent resident. Thus, the idea of ‘who receives the green card first at the consulate’ can cause confusion, since the consulate does not issue the green card directly; it only grants the visa that gives access to U.S. territory.

It is essential to emphasize that the order of receiving the green card is not a matter of priority among family members or the applied group, but rather part of the standard procedure: the immigrant visa is the first document the holder receives, and the green card materializes later, once the individual passes inspection at the U.S. port of entry. Therefore, both the principal applicant and dependents – when included in the process and approved – will follow this same procedure, receiving the stamp in their passports and, subsequently, the green card through official channels within the country.

Finally, it is always advisable to strictly follow immigration laws and be cautious with information that may be incorrect or with miraculous promises of results. Seeking information from official sources and relying on the support of specialized professionals (informatively and without promises of results) is essential to ensure a safe process in accordance with the rules established by the United States.

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.