Abstract: An integral via structure and contact manufacturing process (10) with a first conductive layer patterning process section (12) that includes depositing a first conductive layer (34), creating a first via etch mask (44) on the first conductive layer (34), partially etching the exposed portions of the first conductive layer (34) to create first via structures (52) and a remaining first conductive layer (34), stripping the first via etch mask (44), masking the remaining first conductive layer (34) with a first layer etch mask (56) that covers the via structures (52), etching the exposed portions of the remaining first conductive layer (34) to form a first conductive pattern (60) having integral via structures (52). A first dielectric (72) is deposited and planarized to expose top portions of the first via structure (52) and a second conductive layer (90) is deposited, making contact with the first via structures (52).