F2B Visa Guide: Key Things You Need to Know About the F2B Visa
The F2B visa is a family-based immigrant visa that allows unmarried adult children (21 years or older) of U.S. lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) to immigrate to the United States. This visa falls under the Family Second Preference (F2B) category and provides a pathway to permanent residency for eligible family members.
F2B Visa Overview
The F2B visa enables lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to permanently sponsor their unmarried adult children (aged 21 or older) to live in the U.S.. To apply, follow these steps:
- File Form I-130: The Green Card holder (sponsor) submits Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) to USCIS.
- Wait for Visa Availability: The F2B category is subject to annual numerical limits, so applicants must check the Visa Bulletin for priority date movement.
- Complete DS-260: Once the petition is approved, the applicant submits Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application) online.
- Attend a Visa Interview: Schedule an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, where the applicant must present the required documents.
- Receive the Visa and Travel to the U.S: If approved, the applicant receives the F2B visa, allowing them to enter the U.S. and obtain a Green Card.
Advantages That an F2B Visa Offers
The F2B visa provides multiple benefits for Green Card holders and their adult children, including:
Family Reunification
- Allows Green Card holders to bring their unmarried adult children (21 years or older) to the U.S.
- Strengthens family ties by enabling parents and children to live together permanently.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
- F2B visa holders become lawful permanent residents upon arrival in the U.S.
- Offers eligibility for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency and naturalization requirements.
Work Authorization
- Once in the U.S., F2B visa holders receive a Green Card that allows them to work legally without restrictions.
- No additional work permit (EAD) is required.
Education and Financial Opportunities
- Eligible for in-state tuition, financial aid, and scholarships at U.S. universities.
- Can enroll in higher education programs without limitations.
Travel Flexibility
- F2B visa holders can travel freely in and out of the U.S. after obtaining their Green Card.
- No need for a separate visa once lawful permanent residency is granted.
Requirements for an F2B Visa
Eligible Family Relationship
- The applicant must be the unmarried son or daughter (21 years or older) of a U.S. Green Card holder (lawful permanent resident).
- If the applicant marries before receiving the visa, they become ineligible for the F2B category and may need to seek other immigration options.
Financial Support Requirement
- The Green Card holder must file Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) to prove financial ability to support the applicant.
- The sponsor must meet the minimum income requirements based on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Poverty Guidelines.
Visa Availability & Priority Date
- The F2B visa is subject to annual numerical limits, making wait times longer than immediate relative visas.
- Applicants must check the Visa Bulletin for priority date movement to determine when a visa number becomes available.
Medical Examination & Vaccination
- The applicant must undergo a medical examination by a USCIS-approved physician.
- Required vaccinations under U.S. immigration law must be completed before visa approval.
Intent to Immigrate
- The F2B visa is an immigrant visa, meaning applicants must prove intent to reside permanently in the U.S.
- The applicant must move to the U.S. within six months of visa issuance to activate their Green Card
Interview & Documentation
The applicant must attend an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
- Required documents include:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate proving relationship to the Green Card holder
- Financial support documents
- Police clearance certificate from all countries lived in for over six months
Processing Time
- Processing times vary due to visa availability, USCIS processing speed, and embassy schedules.
- Due to the annual cap, the F2B visa wait time can be several years, depending on priority date movement in the Visa Bulletin.
The F2B visa is crucial for Green Card holders seeking to sponsor their unmarried adult children for permanent residency in the United States, providing them with work, education, and eventual U.S. citizenship opportunities.