How long will my immigrant visa be valid?
Immigrant visas are normally valid for travel to the United States for six months from the date on which they are issued. In individual cases the validity of the visa can be limited.
What happens when I enter the United States?
The immigrant visa is surrendered to an immigration officer at the port of entry, at which time the holder will be given the forms required to complete an application for a Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as a "green card". That card will normally be mailed to the address of the applicant's final destination in the United States at a later date.
The alien's passport will be stamped to show that he/she has been admitted as a lawful permanent resident and that an application for a "green card" is being processed. A stamped passport with an immigrant visa in it serves as a temporary evidence of permanent residence (i.e. it is a temporary "green card") for one year from the day of admission.
What if I want to leave the United States before receiving the green card?
If you leave the United States before receiving the "green card", you may reenter the United States on the stamp in your passport. Should the stamp expire while you are abroad, you should contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate having jurisdiction over your place of residence for further information. Questions concerning the "green card" should be addressed to the office of the USCIS in the applicant's district of residence in the U.S. If you are in Poland, you should contact the Public Liaison Unit for further information.
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