Bringing your spouse and children to Lancaster through consular processing is a major life goal. You likely want to know how the process works and how long it will take to be together. Consular processing is the legal path for family members living outside of the United States to obtain an immigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Initial petition and approval
Your journey begins right here in the United States. You must file a petition to show that your marriage is legal and that your children are yours. If you are a U.S. citizen, the people considered as your immediate relatives are your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old. Most importantly, this means they do not have to wait for a visa number to become available.
Once the government approves your petition, they send the file to the National Visa Center. You must then pay fees and upload financial documents. These records are part of a broader review of your family’s health, age and skills to ensure they are unlikely to become a public charge under current 2026 standards.
Embassy interview and medical exam
After your paperwork is complete, the National Visa Center schedules an interview. Your spouse must go to the American embassy or consulate located in their own country for this meeting. Under current rules, all family members, regardless of age, must now attend the in-person interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Before the interview date, each family member must visit an authorized doctor for a medical exam. You should ensure they bring original civil documents like birth certificates and marriage licenses. According to the U.S. Department of State, missing even one document can cause long delays in visa issuance.
Processing times and preparation
In 2026, the total timeline from initial filing to visa issuance typically ranges from 18 to 22 months. This includes the time it takes for the government to review your petition and the wait for an embassy interview.
Being organized and submitting clear evidence of your bona fide marriage is the best way to keep the process moving. These times can change based on the workload at the specific embassy handling your case.
Seek local legal guidance
Careful preparation helps you avoid a Request for Evidence. You should double check every form for errors before you hit submit. This attention to detail protects your family from unnecessary months of separation. Reviewing your specific documents with a qualified professional can help ensure your family reaches Lancaster without avoidable delays.