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Understanding what I-140 approval means for NIW applicants in Germany

For NIW applicants living in Germany, the I-140 approval simply means USCIS has accepted the merit and national importance of your work. It does not authorize travel or give any immigration status. The next steps happen through the National Visa Center (NVC) and the U.S. consulate in Germany, a process known as consular processing after NIW.

Since you’re abroad, you cannot file the I-485 yet. Instead, you must complete the immigrant visa steps before entering the U.S. as a permanent resident.

Step 1: Your case is transferred to the National Visa Center

Once approved, USCIS forwards your petition to the NVC. The NVC assigns you a case number and requests documents such as your passport, birth certificate, and police clearance. This begins the EB-2 NIW immigration timeline, and you will receive email notifications for each required step.

Applicants living in Germany submitting their civil documents must ensure translations meet U.S. standards.

Step 2: Submitting civil and supporting documents

At this stage, you submit civil records, passport details, and financial support forms. Germany’s documentation including Meldebescheinigung, German police certificate, and translation rules must be handled properly.

Beyond Border Global assists applicants in preparing strong evidence packages to prevent NVC delays, ensuring USCIS petition credibility enhancement continues through the consular stage.

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Step 3: Filing the DS-260

The DS-260 is the official immigrant visa application. It must be completed with accurate job history, address history, and travel records. Any inconsistencies may cause delays or administrative processing.

Alcorn Immigration Law guides Germany-based NIW applicants by reviewing DS-260 entries and aligning them with prior filings to ensure each answer supports your immigration narrative.

Step 4: Attending your medical exam in Germany

Before the interview, you must undergo a medical exam at a U.S.-approved clinic in Germany. Results are transmitted either electronically or in sealed form, depending on the clinic.

This step confirms eligibility from a health standpoint and is mandatory before the immigrant visa can be issued.

Step 5: Your interview at the U.S. consulate

Interviews for NIW-based cases in Germany are commonly held at the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt. You bring originals of all documents, financial evidence, supporting research/engineering/medical materials, and personal identification.

2nd.law ensures every document is complete, consistent, and clear for the officer.
BPA Immigration Lawyers help applicants prepare for questions regarding work, immigration intent, and future plans.

Officers mainly verify identity, eligibility, security background, and that your NIW work aligns with U.S. national interest objectives.

Step 6: Receiving your immigrant visa

If approved, the consulate places an immigrant visa in your passport. You must enter the U.S. before it expires (typically 6 months). This visa acts as your temporary green card when you enter the country.

Step 7: Receiving your physical green card

After arrival, you receive your physical green card by mail at your U.S. address. You may begin employment and residence immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I travel to the U.S. while my NIW consular processing is ongoing?
Yes, but only with a valid nonimmigrant visa. The I-140 approval alone does not permit travel.

2. Does I-140 approval let me move to the U.S. immediately?
No, consular processing must be completed.

3. Can I switch to adjustment of status later?
Only if you legally enter the U.S. and maintain proper status.

4. How long does NVC processing take?
Typically 2–6 months, depending on document accuracy.

5. Can my dependents process with me in Germany?
Yes, spouses and unmarried children under 21 can file as derivatives during DS-260.

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