F2B Greencard
What is F2B Green Card?
The Family-Based F2B Visa is a second-preference immigrant visa category for lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) in the United States who wish to bring their unmarried adult children (aged 21 or older) to live permanently in the U.S.
Key Benefits of the F2B Visa
The Family-Based F2B Visa offers numerous benefits, including:
- Permanent Residency: Allows unmarried adult children of lawful permanent residents to live and work permanently in the U.S.
- Path to Citizenship: Green Card holders can apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of residency.
- Family Reunification: Promotes family unity by allowing families to live together in the U.S.
- Employment Flexibility: Provides the freedom to work in any occupation in the U.S.
Eligibility Criteria for the F2B Visa
To qualify for the Family-Based F2B Visa, the following requirements must be met:
- Sponsor’s Status: The sponsor must be a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. (Green Card holder).
- Relationship: The visa is for unmarried children of lawful permanent residents who are 21 years of age or older.
- Financial Support: The sponsor must demonstrate the ability to financially support the immigrant at 125% above the poverty line, as required by submitting Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.
Visa Bulletin
The Visa Bulletin is a monthly publication issued by the U.S. Department of State that provides critical information regarding the availability of immigrant visas (green cards) for various categories of applicants. It outlines the Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing, which help applicants understand when they can proceed with their green card applications based on their priority dates.
The priority date is established when the U.S. citizen files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This date serves as the applicant’s place in the visa queue, which is essential because the number of visas available in this category is limited.
The Final Action Date indicates when an immigrant visa number is available for issuance. If an applicant’s priority date is earlier than the Final Action Date listed for the Family 2nd category, they are eligible to receive their green card that month.
Conversely, the Dates for Filing chart specifies the earliest dates when applicants can submit their green card applications, even if their priority date is not yet current according to the Final Action Date. This allows applicants to prepare and file their applications in advance, which can help expedite the process once their priority date becomes current.
This process can often involve significant waiting periods, depending on the demand for visas in the Family 2nd category and the applicant’s country of origin.
Validity Period
The Green Card is typically issued as a permanent resident card, the card itself is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance.
What We Do
- Provide assistance in preparing Form I-130 on behalf of a spouse or child (21 or older) of an LPR Holder with USCIS and the National Visa Center
- Review applications to identify potential concerns that may affect the outcome of the application
- Provide assistance to Greencard Holders in the United States that wish to apply for Form I-485, Adjustment of Status, Form I-90 Renewal of Green Card or Form N-400 Citizenship
Are you an unmarried child (21 years or older) of a lawful permanent resident looking to secure your F2B Visa? Our experienced immigration attorneys are here to help you determine your eligibility and guide you through every step of the application process.
Why Choose Us
- Expert Guidance: We specialize in family-based immigration and understand the nuances of the F2B visa application.
- Personalized Support: Our dedicated caseworkers will work closely with you to ensure that your application is complete and accurate.
- Streamlined Process: We’ll help you gather the necessary documentation and prepare for your visa interview, making the process as smooth as possible.
Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from reuniting with your loved ones in the U.S. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if you qualify for the F2B Visa.
Application Process for the F2B Visa
The application process for the Family-Based F2B Visa involves several steps:
Step 1 | Filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative The U.S. lawful permanent resident (sponsor) must file Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the family relationship. Key aspects include: |
Step 2 | Waiting for Priority Date After USCIS approves the I-130 petition, the applicant must wait for their priority date to become current. The priority date is the date the petition was filed, and visas are issued based on this date. The Department of State’s Visa Bulletin provides monthly updates on visa availability. |
Step 3 | Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status Consular Processing (Outside the U.S.)
Adjustment of Status (Within the U.S.)
|
Frequently Asked Questions
F2B
- How long does the F2B visa process take?
The processing time for an F2B visa can vary widely based on the applicant’s country of origin and the current demand for visas. It can take several years due to annual visa limits and high demand.
- Can I bring my family with me on an F2B visa?
No, the F2B visa is specifically for unmarried adult children of lawful permanent residents. However, once the F2B visa holder becomes a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, they can sponsor their own family members.
- Can I change my status while my F2B application is pending?
If you are in the U.S. on another visa, you may be able to change your status to a permanent resident once your priority date becomes current. This requires filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
- What happens if my I-130 petition is denied?
If your I-130 petition is denied, you may appeal the decision or file a motion to reopen or reconsider the case. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can help navigate this process and improve your chances of a successful outcome.
- Can I apply for a work permit while my F2B application is pending?
If you are in the U.S. and have filed for adjustment of status (Form I-485) after your I-130 petition is approved, you can apply for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document, or EAD) and travel document (Advance Parole).
- Do I need a job offer to apply for the F2B visa?
No, a job offer is not required to apply for the F2B visa. This visa category is based on family relationship, not employment.
