Family-Based Visas

Types of Family-Based Visas

1. Immediate Relative Visas

  • IR-1: Spouse of a U.S. citizen
  • IR-2: Unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen
  • IR-3: Orphan adopted by a U.S. citizen
  • IR-4: Parent of a U.S. citizen
  • IR-5: Adopted child of a U.S. citizen

2. Family Preference Visas

  • F1: Unmarried children over 21 of U.S. citizens
  • F2A: Spouses and unmarried children of permanent residents
  • F2B: Unmarried children over 21 of permanent residents
  • F3: Married children of U.S. citizens
  • F3: Married children of U.S. citizens
  • F4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens

3. Special Category Visas

  • K-1: FiancĂ©(e) of a U.S. citizen
  • K-2: Unmarried children of K-1 visa holders
  • K-3: Spouse of a U.S. citizen (waiting for immigrant visa)
  • V: Spouse or child of a permanent resident (waiting for immigrant visa)
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Requirement and Process

Family-Based Visas

Eligibility Requirements

  1. Sponsorship by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  2. Meeting the definition of a qualifying family relationship.
  3. Passing background and medical checks.
  4. Meeting income requirements (for sponsors)

Application Process

  1. Sponsor files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
  2. Priority date established.
  3. Visa application (Form DS-260 or Form I-485).
  4. Medical examination.
  5. Interview at U.S. embassy or consulate (or USCIS office).
  6. Approval and issuance of immigrant visa or adjustment of status

Required Documents

  1. Passport
  2. Birth certificate
  3. Marriage certificate (if applicable)
  4. Divorce or death certificate (if applicable)
  5. Medical examination results
  6. Police certificate (if required)

Benefits

  1. Permanent residence in the United States
  2. Work authorization
  3. Travel outside the U.S.
  4. Path to U.S. citizenship

Processing Times

  1. Immediate Relative Visas: typically 5-12 months.
  2. Family Preference Visas: varies by preference category and priority date

Fees

  1. Form I-130: $535
  2. Form DS-260: $325
  3. Form I-485: $1,225
  4. Medical examination: varies

Our experienced immigration attorneys can help with:

  1. Sponsorship and petition preparation
  2. Document gathering and review
  3. Interview preparation
  4. Waiver applications (if necessary)
  5. Appeals and motions (if necessary)

Frequently Asked Questions

Waiting periods vary depending on the preference category and priority date.

Yes, through the K-1 visa process.

Yes, through the F4 preference category.

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