Consular Processing is one of two types of processing for foreign nationals who are eligible to obtain Lawful Permanent Residence. Consular processing is available to foreign nationals who are outside of the United States and wish to apply for a green card at a foreign embassy or consulate. By contrast, Adjustment of Status, is the type of processing available to foreign nationals who are already lawfully in the U.S. and wish to apply through USCIS.
Consular processing is the last step in the process of obtaining a green card while abroad. You must first file an immigrant visa petition and wait for your visa to become available. Once a visa is available, you will be scheduled for an appointment at a U.S. consulate, where you will be interviewed by a consular officer who will grant your green card if you are eligible.