U.S. Embassy & Consulates
in Mexico

If your Application to Determine Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117, is approved, the applicant will need to apply for a Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa within six months from the date of approval.  The U.S. Consulate General Ciudad Juarez will provide you with specific instructions for the immigrant SB-1 visa application.  Read the instructions carefully and when all the necessary documents have been gathered and forms completed, an appointment can be requested through our website.  Click here for the document checklist and to request an interview.

If Your Application to Determine Returning Resident Status is NOT Approved:

If, after reviewing your Application to Determine Returning Resident Status, Form DS-117, and supporting documents, the Consular Officer determines that you do not meet the criteria for a Returning Resident (SB-1) immigrant visa on the grounds that you have abandoned or relinquished your residence in the United States, it may or may not be possible to obtain a nonimmigrant visa depending on whether you have established a residence abroad to which you will return. If you cannot submit convincing evidence of compelling ties abroad, you may have to apply for an immigrant visa on the same basis and under the same category by which you immigrated originally.

Returning Legal Permanent Residents Who Obtained Such Status Based on Asylum Status:

Asylum applicants, asylees, and lawful permanent residents who obtained such status based on their asylum status are subject to special rules with regards to traveling outside the United States.  For more information on obtaining proper documentation before you depart the United States, see Benefits and Responsibilities of Asylees on the USCIS website.