Common Visa Types for Family Immigration

Table Of Contents

Which Visa Types Are for Immediate Relatives?

Immediate relative visa types are for close family members of United States citizens. United States immigration law defines immediate relatives as spouses, unmarried children under 21 years of age, and parents of United States citizens. Immediate relatives do not have numerical limits on the number of visas issued annually. This means immediate relatives do not face long waiting periods for visa availability.
The purpose of immediate relative visas is family reunification. A United States citizen petitions for the immediate relative. The immediate relative then applies for the visa. The process involves various forms and supporting documentation. An approved petition is a necessary first step for the immediate relative visa application.

How Does the IR1/CR1 Visa Work for Spouses?

The IR1/CR1 visa works for spouses of United States citizens. The IR1 visa is for spouses married for two years or more. The CR1 visa is for spouses married for less than two years. The "CR" in CR1 stands for "conditional resident". A conditional resident receives a two-year conditional green card.
The IR1/CR1 visa allows the spouse to immigrate to the United States. The United States citizen spouse files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. After petition approval, the case moves to the National Visa Centre. The spouse then completes the visa application process. This process includes a medical examination and an interview.

What Are Family Preference Visas?

Family preference visas are for more distant family relationships or for family members of lawful permanent residents. These categories have annual numerical limits. Numerical limits mean longer waiting periods for visa availability. The waiting periods depend on the specific preference category and the country of origin.
The four family preference categories are F1, F2A, F2B, and F3. The F4 category is for brothers and sisters of United States citizens. Each category has specific eligibility requirements. A United States citizen or lawful permanent resident petitions for the family member.

F2A and F2B Visa Categories Explained

The F2A visa category is for spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age of lawful permanent residents. This category has numerical limits. The waiting period for F2A visas is generally shorter than for other preference categories. Lawful permanent residents petition for their F2A family members.
The F2B visa category is for unmarried children 21 years of age or older of lawful permanent residents. This category also has numerical limits. The waiting period for F2B visas is typically longer than for F2A visas. A lawful permanent resident parent petitions for their F2B child.

K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Process

The K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Process allows a United States citizen to bring a foreign fiancé(e) to the United States for marriage. The K-1 visa specifically requires the couple to marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)'s arrival. The K-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa. The K-1 visa leads to immigrant status.
The United States citizen files Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). The United States government processes the petition. Upon approval, the foreign fiancé(e) applies for the K-1 visa at a United States embassy or consulate abroad. The fiancé(e) undergoes an interview and medical examination.

When Is the K-3 Spouse Visa Used?

The K-3 spouse visa is used when a United States citizen has married a foreign spouse outside the United States. The K-3 visa allows the foreign spouse to enter the United States while their immigrant visa petition is pending. The K-3 visa helps shorten the separation period for married couples.
A United States citizen files Form I-130 for their spouse. The United States citizen also files Form I-129F for the K-3 visa. The K-3 visa permits the spouse to live and work in the United States. The K-3 visa bridges the gap until the immigrant visa becomes available.

FAQS

What is an immediate relative visa?

An immediate relative visa is for spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of United States citizens. Immediate relative visas do not have annual numerical limits.

How long does an IR1/CR1 visa take?

An IR1/CR1 visa takes between 10 to 16 months. The United States government processes Form I-130 petitions. Waiting periods for visa interviews impact the duration. Processing times at consulates impact the duration.

Who qualifies for a family preference visa?

Who qualifies for a family preference visa? More distant family members of United States citizens qualify for a family preference visa. Family members of lawful permanent residents also qualify for a family preference visa. These categories include adult children. These categories include siblings. These categories include spouses of green card holders. These categories include children of green card holders.

What is the difference between F2A and F2B visas?

The difference between F2A and F2B visas is the F2A visa is for spouses and unmarried children. The children are under 21. The F2A visa is for lawful permanent residents. The F2B visa is for unmarried children. The children are aged 21 or older. The F2B visa is for lawful permanent residents. Both visa categories have numerical limits.

Can a K-1 visa holder work in the United States?

A K-1 visa holder can apply for work authorisation after arriving in the United States. The K-1 visa holder needs to apply for an Employment Authorisation Document. This document allows the K-1 visa holder to legally work.

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