Immigrant Visas

Immigrant visa processing and interviews are by appointment only. Please contact us at consularlilong@state.gov for an appointment.
Persons immigrating to the United States are divided by U.S. immigration law into three general categories:

1. Immigrants not numerically limited, which include:
   
• Immediate Relatives of United States Citizens
  
• Returning Residents
  
2. Immigrants who are restricted by an annual limitation
   
• Family-sponsored Immigrants
  
• Employment-based Immigrants
  
3. Diversity Immigrants (visa lottery). Currently, all Diversity Visas for Malawi are being handled by the US Embassy in Harare, please visit their website at http://harare.usembassy.gov/divervisa.html

How to Apply

You may file an immigrant visa petition at the U.S. Embassy.

Note: Applicants are required to swear or affirm to the truth and accuracy of a visa application at the time of formal application and to submit certain documentary evidence to establish eligibility for the visa. These statements and evidence will be carefully examined. It should be understood that willful misrepresentation of a material fact in connection with a visa application may result in a permanent bar to entry into the United States, or deportation if admitted into the United States. There is no guarantee that a visa will be issued. Applicants are advised not to dispose of their property nor to give up their jobs until a visa has been issued to them. Once issued, an immigrant visa is valid for six months from the date of issuance.

Documents required in support of an immigrant visa application:
All applicants must submit certain personal documents such as passports, birth certificates, police certificates, and other civil documents, as well as evidence that they will not become public charges in the United States. The consular officer will inform visa applicants of the documents needed as their applications are processed.

Medical examinations

Before the issuance of an immigrant visa, every applicant, regardless of age, must undergo a medical examination. The examination will be conducted by a doctor designated by the consular officer. Costs for such examinations must be borne by the applicant.

Visa fees

The cost of each formal immigrant visa application and each issued immigrant visa is listed in the Schedule of Fees posted in all U.S. Consular offices. As of January 2008, those fees were US $355 or the equivalent in Kwachas for the application. These fees are subject to change. Fees must be paid by, or for, each intending immigrant regardless of age, and are not refundable. Fees may be paid in US dollars or local currency equivalents.  No personal checks or credit cards are accepted.

After issuing, the processing and IV surcharge fee is $45 or the equivalent in Kwachas