A Comprehensive Guide: Applying for a US Sponsorship Visa from Bangladesh

The United States has long been a dream destination for many aspiring individuals from around the world, including Bangladesh. One of the pathways to realizing this dream is through a sponsorship visa. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of applying for a US sponsorship visa from Bangladesh, providing you with valuable insights and step-by-step instructions.

1. Understanding the Sponsorship Visa: A sponsorship visa, commonly known as the family-sponsored visa, allows eligible individuals to join their family members who are either US citizens or lawful permanent residents. There are two main categories for family-sponsored visas: Immediate Relative Visas and Family Preference Visas.

• Immediate Relative Visas: These visas are for the immediate family members of US citizens, including spouses, parents, and unmarried children under the age of 21.
• Family Preference Visas: These visas are for more distant family members of US citizens or permanent residents, including unmarried adult children, married children, and siblings.

2. Identifying the Eligibility Criteria: Before beginning the application process, it's crucial to determine your eligibility for the sponsorship visa. Factors such as the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant, the sponsor's immigration status, and the category of visa must all be considered.

3. The Application Process: Applying for a US sponsorship visa involves several steps:

Step 1: File Petition (Form I-130) The US citizen or permanent resident sponsor must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant.

Step 2: Visa Availability For Family Preference Visas, applicants must wait until a visa becomes available in their specific category. Immediate Relative Visas do not have a waiting period, as visas are always available.

Step 3: National Visa Center (NVC) Processing Once a visa becomes available, the NVC will notify the sponsor and provide instructions for further processing, including the submission of necessary fees and documents.

Step 4: Consular Processing Applicants will need to attend an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in Bangladesh. The interview includes providing biometric data, submitting required documents, and undergoing a medical examination.

Step 5: Visa Approval If the visa is approved, the applicant will receive their passport with the visa affixed, allowing them to travel to the United States.

4. Required Documents:

• Passport
• Form I-130 approval notice
• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificates
• Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
• Police certificates
• Medical examination results

5. Additional Tips:

• Ensure all documents are translated into English.
• Attend the interview well-prepared and dressed appropriately.
• Be honest and concise in your responses during the interview.

6. Processing Time: Processing times for sponsorship visas can vary widely, depending on the category and the number of applications in the queue. It's advisable to check the USCIS website for current processing time estimates.

Conclusion: Applying for a US sponsorship visa from Bangladesh requires careful planning, attention to detail, and adherence to the prescribed steps. By understanding the eligibility criteria, following the application process diligently, and providing accurate documentation, you can increase your chances of a successful application. The journey may be complex, but the reward of reuniting with loved ones in the United States makes it all worthwhile.