It can be difficult to navigate the immigration system in the United States, especially when applying for visas that have certain eligibility requirements.
One important route for single sons and daughters of US citizens with green cards is the F2B visa.
Essential advice on comprehending the F2B category, application procedures, and a comprehensive checklist to guarantee a successful application are all included in this guide.
What is the F2B Category?
The F2B visa, which falls under the family preference category for U.S. immigration, is intended only for unmarried sons and daughters of lawful permanent residents, or “green card holders,” who are 21 years of age or older. Those who meet the requirements can get permanent residency in the US with this visa.
Annual caps apply to the F2B category, which means that there are only a certain number of visas available annually. As a result of strong demand and national restrictions, candidates frequently must wait a lengthy period. The date of filing Form I-130, known as the priority date, establishes an applicant’s standing in the line.
How to Apply for the F2B Visa?
There are several steps involved in applying for an F2B visa, and to prevent delays, it is essential to carefully follow each one. This comprehensive guide will assist you with the application:
1. Submit a Petition for Alien Relative, Form I-130:
The petitioner, who is the owner of a green card in the United States, must submit Form I-130 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as the first step in the procedure. The beneficiary (an unmarried son or daughter) and the petitioner’s family relationship is established on this form. It is crucial to attach all necessary paperwork, such as birth certificates attesting to the petitioner’s parent-child relationship and documentation of the petitioner’s green card status.
2. Await the availability of visas:
The petition is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) once Form I-130 has been approved by USCIS. As per the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bulletin, applicants are required to wait until their priority date becomes current due to the yearly visa restrictions. The applicant’s place of origin and the level of demand in the F2B category might have a substantial impact on the wait period.
3. Fill out Form DS-260, Application for Immigrant Visa:
The applicant will receive instructions from the NVC to fill out Form DS-260 online as soon as a visa becomes available. Since it is the formal application for an immigrant visa, this form is very important. Make sure that all the data is correct and aligned with the accompanying documentation. You will be required to submit information about your past employment history, addresses, and travel history (if you travel through various states like Virginia for example).
4. Pay Fees:
Instructions on how to pay the necessary fees such as the Affidavit of Support and visa application fees will be sent by the NVC. To continue with the visa application procedure, these payments are required.
5. Submit Supporting Documents:
Alongside Form DS-260, you must submit various supporting documents to the NVC. These documents typically include:
- Passport-sized photographs
- A valid passport
- Birth certificates
- Police certificates from any country where you have resided for six months or more
- The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) from the sponsoring parent
- Any court or prison records, if applicable.
6. Show up for the visa interview:
The interview for a visa at the American embassy or consulate in your native country is the last stage. A consular official will evaluate your eligibility for the F2B visa during this interview and confirm the veracity of your relationship with the petitioner. Be ready to respond to inquiries about your past, your relationship with your parent, and your future goals while residing in the United States.
7. Obtain a Visa and Visit the United States:
Your passport will be stamped with an F2B visa if your application is accepted. After that, you may go to the US. You will receive a green card upon arrival, allowing you to live here permanently.
F2B Visa Checklist
To ensure your F2B visa application is complete and accurate, follow this checklist:
1. Form I-130:
- Completed and signed by the U.S. green card holder
- Proof of the petitioner’s green card status (copy of green card)
- Evidence of the parent-child relationship (birth certificates, adoption papers)
2. Form DS-260:
- Completed online with accurate information
- Confirmation page printed for the interview
3. Supporting Documents:
- Passport-sized photographs
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Police certificates from relevant countries
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
- Medical examination results (if required)
4. Visa Fees:
- Paid visa application fee
- Affidavit of Support fee paid
5. Interview Preparation:
- Gather original documents and photocopies
- Prepare for common interview questions
- Understand post-interview steps for receiving the visa and traveling to the U.S.
You can increase your chances of having your F2B visa application approved by paying attention to these pointers and making sure that all forms and documentation are accurately filled out and submitted.
