If my immigrant visa is approved at the consulate, what happens next before I can enter the United States as a permanent resident?

After approval, your passport will be returned with the immigrant visa stamped inside, along with a sealed immigrant packet or electronic confirmation. You must enter the United States before the visa expiration date, which is often tied to your medical examination validity. Upon entry, you will be admitted as a lawful permanent resident, and your physical green card will be mailed to your U.S. address.

Before traveling, ensure you have paid the required immigrant fee to USCIS, as this facilitates green card production. When you arrive at a U.S. port of entry, Customs and Border Protection will process your admission. After entry, your immigrant visa serves as temporary proof of permanent residence until the physical green card arrives by mail.