EB-5 National Visa Center (NVC) Guide: What Happens After I-526E Approval

Receiving an I-526E approval is a major milestone in the EB-5 investment immigration process, but it is far from the final step. For applicants who are living abroad and pursuing consular processing, the case next moves to the National Visa Center (NVC), a division of the U.S. Department of State that serves as the critical bridge between USCIS petition approval and the consular interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Understanding how the NVC stage works, what documents are required, and how to avoid common delays can save applicants weeks or even months during this transitional phase. This guide covers everything EB-5 investors need to know about the NVC process, from initial case creation through interview scheduling. ## The Role of the NVC in the EB-5 Process The National Visa Center, located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is operated by the U.S. Department of State. Its primary function is to collect...