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United States · Immigration54

Consular Processing Considerations

When adjustment inside the U.S. is not possible, the case finishes at a U.S. consulate abroad — but departing after unlawful presence can trigger three- or ten-year bars. The decision to depart must be planned, not assumed.

Requires current verification · Editorial record dated 10/20/2026 · Not lawyer review or an eligibility decision. Check current official instructions.

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Who this is for

People whose approved petition must be completed at a consulate abroad.

Common problems

Filing can create risk

Some applications alert enforcement or lock in bad facts. Screening situations must be analyzed before anything is filed.