Family-based immigration plays a critical role in the U.S. immigration system, allowing families to reunite and build their lives together in the United States. Among the various visa categories, F visas are particularly important because they allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to bring their close family members to the U.S. These visas are divided into four main categories
It’s also important to note that translation services are often required for F1, F2, F3, and F4 visa petitions. These services ensure that all required documents are accurately translated into English, which is a mandatory requirement of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

F1 Visa: This category is for unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. It allows these individuals to immigrate to the United States and eventually become permanent residents.
To be eligible for an F1 visa, the following criteria must be met:

• Age: The applicant must be an unmarried son or daughter of a U.S. citizen.
• Relationship: The applicant must be the biological child, adopted child, or step-child of a U.S. citizen.
• Marital Status: The applicant must be unmarried. If the applicant is married, they are not eligible for an F1 visa.
• Petitioner: The U.S. citizen parent must file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on behalf of the applicant.

F2 Visa: The F2 visa is divided into two subcategories:
F2A: For spouses and minor children of lawful permanent residents.
F2B: For unmarried sons and daughters either 21 years of age or older of lawful permanent residents.
To be eligible for an F2 visa, the following criteria must be met:

• Relationship: The applicant must be the spouse or unmarried child of a lawful permanent resident.
• Age: The applicant must be under the age of 21 to be considered a child.
• Marital Status: The applicant must be unmarried. If the applicant is married, they are not eligible for an F2 visa.
• Petitioner: The LPR spouse or parent must file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on behalf of the applicant.

F3 Visa: This visa category is for married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens and allows them to immigrate with their spouses and minor children.
To be eligible for an F3 visa, the following criteria must be met:

• Relationship: The applicant must be the married son or daughter of a U.S. citizen.
• Age: There is no age limit for F3 visa applicants.
• Marital Status: The applicant must be married.
• Petitioner: The U.S. citizen parent must file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on behalf of the applicant.

F4 Visa: The F4 visa is for brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens and allows them to immigrate with their spouses and minor children. These F visas are designed to reunite families and allow them to live together in the United States. They provide a pathway to permanent residency and eventual citizenship, contributing to the social and economic fabric of the country.
To be eligible for an F4 visa, the following criteria must be met:

• Relationship: The applicant must be the brother or sister of a U.S. citizen.
• Age: There is no age limit for F4 visa applicants.
• Petitioner: The U.S. citizen sibling must file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on behalf of the applicant.

FAQs

How long does it take to process an F1 visa application?

The processing time varies, but it can take several months to several years.

Can I work in the United States on an F1 visa?

No, F1 visa holders are not eligible to work in the United States, but they can apply for an EAD in certain circumstances.

What is an F2 visa?

An F2 visa is a non-immigrant visa for spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 who are lawful permanent residents (green card holders).

Can I bring my children with me on an F2 visa?

Yes, unmarried children under the age of 21 can accompany the principal applicant on an F2 visa.

How long does it take to process an F3 visa application?

The processing time varies, but it can take several months to several years.

Can I work in the United States on an F3 visa?

Yes, F3 visa holders are eligible to work in the United States and can apply for an EAD.

How long does it take to process an F4 visa application?

The processing time varies, but it can take several months to several years.

Can I work in the United States on an F4 visa?

Yes, F4 visa holders are eligible to work in the United States and can apply for an EAD.

Can I bring my spouse and children with me on an F4 visa?

Yes, spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 can accompany the principal applicant on an F4 visa.