3. Family-Based Immigration Visas
F1: Unmarried Adult Children of U.S. Citizens (23,400 visas annually)
The F1 visa category is for the unmarried adult children (over 21 years old) of U.S. citizens. This category is allocated 23,400 visas annually, including the principal applicant and accompanying children. Applicants often face long waiting times for visa approval, with specific wait periods depending on the applicant’s nationality and visa availability.
F2: Family Members of Lawful Permanent Residents (114,200 visas annually)
The F2 visa category is specifically designed for the family members of lawful permanent residents (green card holders), including spouses, minor children, and unmarried adult children. There are 114,200 visas available annually under this category, which is divided into two subcategories:
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F2A: Spouses and minor children of lawful permanent residents (77% of F2 visas). The waiting time for F2A visas is relatively short due to its high priority, primarily benefiting core family members.
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F2B: Unmarried adult children of lawful permanent residents (23% of F2 visas). The waiting time for this category can be longer, especially for applicants from countries with high demand.
F3: Married Children of U.S. Citizens (23,400 visas annually)
The F3 visa is intended for married children of U.S. citizens, including their spouses and minor children. This category is allocated 23,400 visas annually, and applicants often face long wait times, particularly for nationals of countries with high application volumes.
F4: Siblings of U.S. Citizens (65,000 visas annually)
The F4 visa offers immigration opportunities for siblings of U.S. citizens. Applicants may bring their spouses and minor children. This category has an annual quota of 65,000 visas. Due to high demand, wait times are generally long and can exceed ten years.
V1: Certain Spouses and Minor Children of Lawful Permanent Residents (Not Subject to Quota Limits)
The V1 visa provides temporary entry to the U.S. for spouses and minor children of lawful permanent residents who are awaiting F2A visa approval. This visa allows families to reunite during the waiting period for the I-130 immigration petition, without being subject to annual quota limits, thereby reducing the duration of family separation.