Family F4 Visa
What is the Family F4 Visa
The Family F4 Visa is a fourth-preference immigrant visa category for family members of U.S. citizens. This visa allows U.S. citizens to sponsor their brothers and sisters for permanent residency in the United States. The F4 visa category aims to reunite families and provide a pathway for siblings of U.S. citizens to live and work permanently in the United States.
Benefits of the Family F4 Visa
The Family F4 Visa offers numerous benefits for beneficiaries, including:
- Permanent Residency: Allows beneficiaries to live and work permanently in the U.S.
- Path to Citizenship: Beneficiaries can apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of permanent residency.
- Family Unity: Reunites families, allowing beneficiaries to live with their U.S. citizen sibling and other family members.
- Employment and Education Opportunities: Access to employment and educational opportunities in the U.S.
Eligibility Criteria for the Family F4 Visa
To qualify for the Family F4 Visa, the following criteria must be met:
- Petitioner Requirements: The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old.
- Beneficiary Requirements: The beneficiary must be the brother or sister of the U.S. citizen petitioner.
- Relationship Proof: Documentation proving the familial relationship, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other relevant documents.
- Financial Support: The petitioner must demonstrate the ability to financially support the beneficiary and prevent them from becoming a public charge.
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 4th 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 4th 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 Relative with USCIS and applying for a visa with the National Visa Center
- Review applications to identify potential concerns that may affect the outcome of the application
- Provide assistance in determining the Final Action Date and Date of Filing for the beneficiary of the Family F4 Visa
The Family F4 Visa is an essential pathway for siblings of U.S. citizens to achieve permanent residency in the United States.
Why Choose Us?
- Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable attorneys will walk you through the entire process, answering any questions you may have along the way.
- Tailored Support: We take the time to understand your specific circumstances and provide solutions that fit your needs.
- Peace of Mind: With our support, you can feel confident that your application is in good hands.
Are you considering applying for a Family Fourth Preference (F4) visa? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your Family F4 visa.
Application Process for the Family F4 Visa
The application process for the Family-Based F4 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. |
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
F4
- How long does it take to get an F-4 visa?
The processing time for an F-4 visa varies depending on factors such as the applicant’s home country and the backlog of visa applications. It is recommended to consult with an immigration attorney for an estimate of processing times.
- Can I sponsor more than one sibling for an F-4 visa?
Yes, U.S. citizens may sponsor multiple siblings for F-4 visas. Each sibling must have a separate petition filed on their behalf.
- Can my siblings bring their spouses and children to the U.S. on an F-4 visa?
Yes, F-4 visa holders may be eligible to bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 to the United States as derivative beneficiaries.
- How long does it take to get an F-4 visa?
The processing time for an F-4 visa varies depending on factors such as the applicant’s home country and the backlog of visa applications. It is recommended to consult with an immigration attorney for an estimate of processing times.
- Do I need to meet any financial requirements to sponsor my sibling for an F-4 visa?
As the petitioner, you may need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support your sibling once they immigrate to the United States. This typically involves providing evidence of income, assets, or a joint sponsor.
- Can my siblings work in the U.S. on an F-4 visa?
F-4 visa holders are generally eligible to work in the United States upon arrival. However, they may need to apply for employment authorization depending on their specific circumstances.
- Can my siblings travel outside the U.S. while on an F-4 visa?
F-4 visa holders are generally allowed to travel outside the United States. However, they should ensure that they have all necessary travel documents and a valid visa for re-entry into the U.S.
- How long can my siblings stay in the U.S. on an F-4 visa?
F-4 visa holders are typically granted lawful permanent resident status, allowing them to live and work in the United States indefinitely.
