Are you planning to move from the Dominican Republic to the United States? Navigating the visa process can seem complex, but with the right support and information, you can make the journey smoother. At Law and Visas, we specialize in helping families and individuals successfully complete their U.S. immigration process. Whether you’re applying for a fiancé visa, a green card, or immigrating with your children, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Understanding Visa Options for Dominican Citizens
The United States offers several visa types tailored to different immigration needs. Here’s a closer look at the most popular options for people moving from the Dominican Republic.
K-1 Fiancé Visa
Are you engaged to a U.S. citizen? The K-1 Fiancé Visa allows you to travel to the U.S. and marry your partner within 90 days of arrival. After the wedding, you can apply for a green card to stay in the U.S. permanently.
Key Details for Dominican Applicants:
- Process: The K-1 process involves filing a petition, completing consular processing, and attending an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo.
- Timeline: Processing times vary but typically take several months, depending on your specific case and embassy schedules.
- Costs: Fees include USCIS petition costs, visa application fees, and medical examination expenses.
For a deeper understanding of K-1 processing times and costs, explore our detailed K-1 Visa Guide tailored to applicants from the Dominican Republic.
Marriage-Based Green Card
If you’re already married to a U.S. citizen or plan to marry soon, you may be eligible for a marriage-based green card, which grants permanent residence in the U.S.
Key Details for Dominican Applicants:
- Process: The application process depends on whether the sponsoring spouse is a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident, and whether the Dominican spouse is applying from within the U.S. or abroad.
- Timeline: Processing times differ based on individual circumstances and embassy workload.
- Costs: Applicants must pay fees for petitions, medical exams, and document translations.
Law and Visas can guide you through each step to make sure your application is accurate and complete, reducing delays and potential issues.
Which Visa is Right for Me?
Choosing the right visa depends on your situation:
- If you’re engaged, the K-1 Fiancé Visa is the right choice.
- Already married? Consider a Marriage-Based Green Card.
- For children under 21, options like the K-2 Visa or IR-2 Child Visa may apply.
Immigrating with Children
K-2 Visa (Children of K-1 Visa Holders)
If you’re applying for a K-1 Fiancé Visa and have unmarried children under 21, the K-2 Visa allows them to immigrate with you. At Law and Visas, we include your children on your application at no extra cost.
IR-2 Child Visa
If you are a U.S. citizen and your child is living in the Dominican Republic, the IR-2 Child Visa is an excellent option. This visa allows your child to move to the U.S. and obtain a green card.
We can help you add your children to your green card application for just $450 per child. Contact us to check your family’s eligibility.
U.S. Embassy Information in the Dominican Republic
All immigrant visa applications from the Dominican Republic are processed at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo. Here’s the contact information:
- Address: Av. Republica de Colombia #57, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
- Phone: (809) 567-7775
- Support Hours: Agents fluent in English and Spanish are available to help from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The U.S. Embassy is your go-to resource for visa interviews and inquiries. Make sure to prepare all required documents before your appointment.
Special Considerations for Dominican Applicants
COVID-19 Delays
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant delays in visa processing worldwide, including at the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo. While services have resumed for certain visa categories, availability remains limited. Current priorities include:
- Adoptions for U.S. citizens.
- Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, children, and parents).
- Fiancés of U.S. citizens.
- Applicants whose interviews were canceled in 2020 due to service suspensions.
We recommend starting your application early to account for potential delays.
Medical Exams
All visa applicants must undergo a medical exam by an accredited U.S. Embassy-approved physician in Santo Domingo. The results are a critical part of the visa application process, so schedule your exam well in advance of your interview.
Supporting Documents
In the Dominican Republic, official documents like birth, marriage, and divorce certificates must be properly notarized and translated. Submitting incomplete or uncertified documents can lead to delays or a Request for Evidence (RFE). At Law and Visas, we’ll help ensure all your documents meet U.S. immigration standards.
Why Choose Law and Visas?
Law and Visas is dedicated to making U.S. immigration simple and stress-free for Dominican applicants. Here’s why families trust us:
- Expert Guidance: We provide personalized advice tailored to your unique situation.
- Affordable Services: We offer competitive pricing to keep your immigration journey budget-friendly.
- Proven Success: With years of experience helping thousands of families, we’re committed to your success.
Get Started Today
Moving to the United States is a life-changing step, and the right visa is your gateway to achieving this dream. Whether you’re applying for a K-1 Fiancé Visa, a green card, or immigrating with children, Law and Visas is here to help. Contact us today to begin your journey toward a new life in the U.S.
