1. What is the F2B Visa?
The F2B Visa is a family-preference immigrant visa for unmarried adult children (over 21 years old) of U.S. lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders). It allows eligible applicants to immigrate to the U.S. permanently, live and work legally, and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship. The F2B Visa is part of the Family Second Preference (F2) visa category, specifically for the children of Green Card holders, with a limited number of visas available each year.
2. Benefits of the F2B Visa
- Path to Permanent Residency: Allows recipients to live permanently in the U.S. with a Green Card.
- Work and Study Rights: F2B Visa holders can legally work and study in the U.S.
- Path to Citizenship: Eligible F2B recipients can apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
- Eligible for Family Sponsorship: F2B visa holders may later sponsor certain family members for U.S. immigration.
3. F2B Visa Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an F2B Visa, applicants must meet these key requirements:
- Relationship: Must be an unmarried son or daughter of a U.S. permanent resident (over the age of 21).
- Age and Marital Status: Must be over 21 years old and unmarried.
- Sponsor Requirements: The U.S. permanent resident parent must petition on the applicant’s behalf using Form I-130.
- Financial Support: Sponsors must show sufficient financial means or agree to support the applicant financially through Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.
4. F2B Visa Application Process
The F2B Visa process involves several steps, beginning with the U.S.-based parent filing a petition. Here’s a breakdown:
Step 1: File Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
The U.S. Green Card holder parent must submit Form I-130 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with supporting documents proving the relationship and legal residency.
Step 2: Wait for Priority Date and Visa Availability
Since F2B Visas are subject to annual limits, applicants must wait for their priority date (the date the I-130 petition was filed) to become current based on the Visa Bulletin published by the Department of State. The wait time varies, often taking several years due to high demand.
Step 3: Submit DS-260 and Pay Fees (Once Priority Date is Current)
Once the priority date is current, applicants submit Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application) online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) and pay the visa fees.
Step 4: Complete Required Medical Exam and Biometrics
Applicants undergo a medical examination with a USCIS-approved physician and submit biometric data (fingerprints and photos) if required.
Step 5: Attend Interview at U.S. Embassy or Consulate
The applicant attends an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country. During the interview, they will answer questions about their background, relationship to the sponsor, and intent to immigrate.
Step 6: Await Decision and Receive Visa
If approved, the F2B Visa is issued, allowing the applicant to enter the U.S. as a permanent resident. Upon arrival, the applicant will receive their Green Card.
5. Processing Time for F2B Visas
Processing times for F2B visas can vary widely and often range from 5 to 10 years due to visa backlogs and the annual cap on family-preference visas. The wait time depends heavily on the applicant’s country of origin and the number of applicants in the F2B category.
6. Fees for the F2B Visa
| Fee Type | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Form I-130 (Petition Fee) | $535 |
| DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application Fee | $325 |
| Medical Examination | $200–$500 |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 (if required) |
Note: Additional costs may apply for document translation, travel, and other administrative needs.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Can F2B visa holders work in the U.S.?
Yes, F2B visa holders are granted permanent residency and are eligible to work in the U.S. - Can F2B visa holders get married before receiving their visa?
No, F2B visa applicants must remain unmarried. If they marry before the visa is issued, they will no longer be eligible under the F2B category. - How long is the wait for an F2B Visa?
The wait time varies, often ranging from 5 to 10 years, depending on visa availability and the applicant’s country of origin. - What if the sponsoring parent becomes a U.S. citizen during the F2B process?
If the sponsoring parent becomes a U.S. citizen, the F2B petition can be converted to the Immediate Relative (IR-1) category, which may reduce wait times. - Can F2B visa holders bring dependents?
Yes, F2B visa holders can bring eligible dependents, such as spouses and children, once they receive their Green Card and meet sponsorship requirements.
8. Conclusion
The F2B Visa offers a pathway for unmarried adult children of U.S. permanent residents to obtain Green Cards and live in the United States. Despite the lengthy waiting period, F2B visas provide a valuable opportunity for family reunification. Understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and processing times can help applicants and their families plan their journey to U.S. permanent residency.