F3 Immigrant Visa for Married Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens

The F3 visa category allows married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens to immigrate to the United States and become lawful permanent residents. Here are key aspects of the F3 Immigrant Visa:

  • Eligibility: The F3 visa is available to married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. To qualify, the petitioner (the U.S. citizen parent) must be at least 21 years old.
  • Priority Date: The availability of F3 visas is subject to annual numerical limits and visa bulletin priority dates, which may result in waiting periods for visa processing. The priority date is typically the date USCIS receives the immigrant visa petition.
  • Application Process: U.S. citizen petitioners must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of their married son or daughter. Upon approval of the petition, the beneficiary can apply for an immigrant visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
  • Spouses and Children: The spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old of the F3 visa beneficiary may also immigrate to the United States as derivative beneficiaries. They must be listed on the immigrant visa petition and included in the visa application process.
  • Waiting Period: Due to high demand and annual visa limits, there may be a significant waiting period for F3 visa processing. Applicants and petitioners should monitor visa bulletin updates to track priority date movement and anticipate when their visa may become available.
  • Adjustment of Status: Once the immigrant visa is available, beneficiaries residing in the United States may be eligible to adjust their status to lawful permanent resident without having to leave the country. This process is completed through Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
  • Consular Processing: Beneficiaries residing abroad must undergo consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country to obtain an immigrant visa and enter the United States as lawful permanent residents.
  • Benefits: F3 visa holders have the right to live and work permanently in the United States, attend school, and access healthcare and other benefits available to lawful permanent residents.
  • Green Card: Upon entry to the United States, F3 visa holders receive a green card (Form I-551) as evidence of their lawful permanent resident status.
  • Support Services: Immigrant families may access support services and resources to assist with their transition to life in the United States, including language assistance, cultural orientation, and community integration programs.

Navigating the F3 visa process requires patience and careful attention to immigration laws and procedures. Petitioners and beneficiaries should seek guidance from immigration attorneys or accredited representatives to ensure a successful application process and compliance with U.S. immigration requirements.