Family Preference Visas

Uniting Loved Ones: The Power of Family Preference Visas
The USCIS offers family-based preference visas for close family relatives of Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) and US citizens who do not meet the definition of an “immediate relative” as per the Immigration and Nationality Act. This visa, which is available in four categories (F1-F4), is designed for various family relationships:
- F1 or Family First Preference for unmarried children (21 and older) of U.S. citizens and their minor children.
- F2 or Family Second Preference for LPR’s spouses, minor children, and unmarried children aged 21 and above.
- F3 or Family Third Preference for married children of US citizens, along with their spouses and children.
- F4 or Family Fourth Preference for siblings of US citizens of 21 years or older, including their spouses and minor children.
The number of visas granted in each preference category is limited yearly, ranging from 23,400 to 114,200.
As a leading immigration law firm, the Law Offices of Mary Kennedy recognizes the significance of family and the wish to reunite with loved ones in the United States. Our skilled immigration attorneys are committed to assisting you through every stage of the Family Preference Visa process.
Family Preference Visas: Eligibility Criteria

Qualifying Family Relationship
The beneficiary must have a qualifying family relationship with the sponsoring US citizen or LPR, aligning with the preference category’s specifications.
Financial Sponsorship
Age Bracket
Marital Status
Admissibility to the United States
Visa Availability
The Visa number must be accessible within the appropriate preference category. The waiting periods differ based on the category and the applicant’s country of origin.
Filing of Proper Documentation
Immigration Compliance
Stuck With the Complexities of Immigration Law?

Family Preference Visas: Required Documents
The specific document requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances. However, all individuals applying for Family Preference Visa applications must submit the following documents to the USCIS:
- Form I-130 or Petition for Alien Relative
- Proof of petitioner’s U.S. Citizenship or LPR Status
- Proof of relationship between petitioner and beneficiary
- Beneficiary’s passport
- Passport-size photographs as per USCIS photo regulations
- Evidence of prior name changes, if applicable
- Proof of beneficiary’s legal entry to the US, if applicable
- Affidavit of Support or Form I-864
- Medical Examination Report or Form I-693
- Police clearance certificates
- Visa application Form DS-260
Family Preference Visas: The Benefits
Provides access to US social services and healthcare
Enables inclusion of spouses and children in the petition
Provides long-term security and stability for loved ones
Enables your family to live, work, and study in the US
Enables you to apply for US Citizenship
Allows you to apply for legal residency for family members in the US
Family Preference Visas: More Details
How do Family Preference Visas and Immediate Relative Visas differ?
US citizens can use the immediate relative visa to bring their spouses, parents, and unmarried minor children to the country. This visa has no yearly cap on the number issued.
A Family Preference Visa, on the other hand, can be used by Lawful Permanent Residents for their distant relatives, such as unmarried or married children, siblings, and family members.
What is the processing duration for a Family Preference Visa?
The processing time may take several months or years, depending on the visa category and country of origin. Besides, this visa is subject to an annual cap, which can lead to backlogs and delays in the process.
What should I do if my relationship status changes during the visa process?
If you get married, divorced, or attain 21 years of age during the visa processing, it can affect your eligibility. You should also notify the USCIS of any such changes. It also helps to consult your immigration attorney to understand the impact and decide the best way to proceed with your case.