FAQ F4 VISA CATEGORY
What is the F4 visa category?
The F4 visa category is a family preference visa that allows U.S. citizens to sponsor their brothers and sisters, along with their spouses and minor children, for lawful permanent residency in the United States.
Who is eligible to sponsor a family member under the F4 visa category?
To sponsor a family member under the F4 visa category, the petitioner must be a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old. Only siblings (brothers and sisters) of the U.S. citizen are eligible for sponsorship, along with their spouses and minor children.
Is there a waiting period for the F4 visa category?
Yes, there is a significant waiting period for the F4 visa category. The demand for visas in this category often exceeds the annual quota, leading to lengthy waiting times. The waiting period can vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin and the number of visas available.
Can the spouse and minor children of the sponsored sibling also immigrate to the United States?
Yes, the spouse and minor children (unmarried children under the age of 21) of the sponsored sibling can also immigrate to the United States under the F4 visa category. They are considered derivative beneficiaries and can accompany or join the principal beneficiary (the sibling).
Are there any financial requirements for the sponsor?
As a sponsor, you must meet the financial requirements to demonstrate that you can financially support your sibling and their accompanying family members once they immigrate to the United States. This includes completing an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) and meeting the minimum income threshold, which varies based on the household size and the petitioner’s location.
Can the sponsored sibling work in the United States?
Yes, once the sponsored sibling and their accompanying family members receive their Green Cards (lawful permanent residency), they have the authorization to work in the United States without any additional employment authorization documents.
Can the sponsored sibling apply for U.S. citizenship?
Yes, after maintaining their lawful permanent resident status for a required period of time (typically five years), the sponsored sibling can apply for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process. They must meet the eligibility criteria, including demonstrating good moral character and passing the English language and civics tests.
Can I visit my sibling in the United States while the visa is being processed?
While the visa application is being processed, you can still visit your sibling in the United States using a non-immigrant visa, such as a B-2 tourist visa. However, it’s important to note that you must comply with the terms and conditions of the visitor visa and not intend to immigrate during your temporary stay.
It is important to consult with an immigration attorney or refer to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the F4 visa category and the immigration process.
My family and I are utterly pleased with the help that the F4 India Immigration Law Firm has given us. My journey toward bringing my sister and brother into the United States had been a lengthy process. As I have reached out to their services, they have been nothing but considerate, kind, and helpful. My brother got refused in his interview, and they were right on the case on my first call to the law firm. Whenever I called Anisha and Samar, they would answer immediately. Anisha would always respond to my emails and text messages. Things can get very stressful once receiving a refusal from the embassy. But, the F4 team made things such an easy and unstressful process giving me quick efforts and guidance. My brother got his visa within two weeks. I am so grateful that my brother and sister are coming to America. I recommend everyone to reach out if they are looking for an Immigration team. Thank you once again to the F4 Indian Immigration Law Firm.
Nirbhail Singh
