Types of Family-Based Immigrant Visas

There are two main categories of family immigration visas:

1. Immediate Relative (IR) Visas

These visas are reserved for close family members of U.S. citizens. The benefit of this category is that it is not subject to annual numerical limits, meaning visas are always available.

Eligible relationships include:

• Spouse of a U.S. citizen (IR-1)

• Unmarried children under the age of 21 (IR-2)

• Orphan adopted abroad (IR-3)

• Orphan to be adopted in the U.S. (IR-4)

• Parent of a U.S. citizen (IR-5), if the sponsoring citizen is at least 21 years old

2. Family Preference (F) Visas

These are for more distant family relationships of U.S. citizens and specific family relationships of Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). These visas are subject to annual numerical limits and longer processing times.

Family Preference Categories:

• F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (age 21 and older) of U.S. citizens

• F2A: Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of LPRs

• F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 and older) of LPRs

• F3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens

• F4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if the sponsor is at least 21)

Petition & Application Process

The process begins with the U.S. citizen or Green Card holder (the petitioner) filing:

• Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

• Proof of the qualifying family relationship (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates)

Once the petition is approved and a visa is available, the beneficiary (the family member abroad) must complete:

• Visa application process at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country

• Attend an interview and undergo medical examination

• Provide documentation including passports, police certificates, and financial support affidavits

Key Considerations

• Processing Times: Vary by category and country of origin. Immediate Relative visas are faster than Family Preference visas.

• Financial Sponsorship: The sponsor must prove sufficient income using Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) to ensure the immigrant will not become a public charge.

• Visa Quotas: Family Preference categories may face long wait times due to annual visa limits.

• Dual Intent: Applying for an immigrant visa indicates permanent immigration intent, unlike nonimmigrant visas which are temporary.

Our Services Include:

• Eligibility evaluation and guidance on choosing the right family immigration category

• Complete I-130 petition preparation and submission

• Assistance with Affidavit of Support and financial documentation

• Visa application filing, interview preparation, and embassy support

• Guidance on adjustment of status if the family member is already in the U.S.