If you are an unmarried child of 21 years or older and you’re applying for an immigration petition, keep in mind that it can take much longer than it would for children under 21 years old. The wait time is different based on the location you are applying to, if you are the child of a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident (green card holder), and whether you have a service center assigned to your case. The time it will take also depends on where your interview will be held if necessary.
What is the Average Processing Time
Average processing times nationwide for petitions from US citizens for unmarried children aged 21 and over are 29 to 37 months. The fastest processing time is at the Nebraska Service Center and the longest processing time is at the Vermont Service Center.
The wait times can be even longer if the petition is by a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) on behalf of an unmarried child who is over 21 years of age. On average, it takes 18 months in the Texas Service Center and 59.5 months in the California Service Center.
So if you’re an unmarried child 21 years or older and are the son or daughter of a US citizen or green card holder, expect to wait about 3–4 years for your I-130 petition approval.
What Happens Once the Petition Is Procured?
Even if you get your I-130 approved, you still need to wait for an immigrant visa number. There are limits to how many visas you can issue each year, which means that the wait times can be long. For instance, if you are from China, India, Mexico, or the Philippines, you might have a longer wait time as demand is so strong, and sometimes backlogs last decades.
Overview of the F2B Visa Category
The F2B visa is a part of the Family Preference immigration category in the United States, specifically designated for unmarried adult children (21 years or older) of lawful permanent residents (LPRs). This visa allows these individuals to live and work permanently in the U.S. The F2B category limits 34,260 visas annually, representing less than 30% of the total family preference visas available. High demand and limited supply cause significant waiting periods for applicants.
Eligibility Criteria for Unmarried Children Over 21
To qualify for the F2B visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- Age Requirement: The applicant must be over 21 years old.
- Marital Status: The applicant must remain unmarried at the time of application. Marrying before USCIS approves the petition renders the applicant ineligible for this visa.
- Relationship: The applicant must be a biological or legally adopted child of a U.S. lawful permanent resident who is sponsoring their application.
The sponsoring parent must also be a lawful permanent resident residing in the U.S. and able to provide proof of their relationship to the applicant.
Factors Influencing Processing Times
Processing times for F2B visas can vary significantly based on several factors:
- Country of Origin: Processing times differ depending on the applicant’s country, as some countries have higher demand and longer queues than others. For instance, applicants from countries with a high number of family-based immigration applications may experience longer wait times.
- Role of U.S. Consulate: After USCIS approves the Form I-130 petition, it forwards cases to the National Visa Center (NVC), which then sends them to a U.S. consulate in the applicant’s home country.The efficiency and workload of that consulate can affect processing times significantly.
- Administrative Delays and Backlogs: Various administrative issues, including staffing shortages at USCIS and consulates, can lead to delays. Backlogs are common in family preference categories due to annual caps on visas issued.
Current Processing Time for F2B Visas
As of now, average processing times for F2B visas can range from two to seven years, depending on various factors such as country-specific quotas and individual case circumstances. The U.S. Department of State publishes a monthly Visa Bulletin that indicates when priority dates become current, allowing applicants to proceed with their applications. Applicants should regularly check this bulletin to stay informed about their status. Typically, USCIS approval takes several months (often 6-12 months), followed by additional processing at the NVC and consulate before receiving the visa.
Ways to Track and Monitor Processing Time
Tracking your F2B visa application status can be done through several methods:
- USCIS Online Status Check: Applicants can check the status of their I-130 petition online using their receipt number on the USCIS website. This tool provides real-time updates on the progress of their application6.
- USCIS Processing Time Tools: The USCIS website offers processing time tools that allow applicants to view average processing times based on specific forms and service centers. This information helps set expectations regarding how long each stage may take.
Common Delays and How to Address Them
Several common issues can lead to delays in F2B visa processing:
- Missing Documents: Missing required documents can delay or deny applications. Ensure all necessary documents are included when submitting applications.
- Incorrect Filings: Errors in forms or submissions can result in requests for additional information or rejections. Double-checking all paperwork before submission is advisable.
To address these issues, applicants should:
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
- Respond promptly to any requests from USCIS or consulates for additional information.
- Maintain communication with their attorney or immigration consultant if applicable.
Strategies for Reducing Processing Times
To enhance the chances of a smooth application process and potentially reduce waiting times, consider these strategies:
- Complete Applications: Ensure that all forms are filled out correctly and completely before submission. This includes providing all required supporting documents.
- Timely Responses: Be prompt in responding to any requests from USCIS or consulates for additional information or documentation.
- Monitor Priority Dates: Regularly check the Visa Bulletin to know when your priority date becomes current, allowing you to proceed with your application promptly.
- Consider Waivers: If your visa priority date is not current, consult an immigration attorney about possible waiver options or alternative immigration pathways while waiting for your F2B visa.
In short, the application process for unmarried minors over 21 is usually more elaborate and extended. You may experience long delays depending on where USCIS adjudicates your petition and your country of birth. But knowing general times and if it will be late is good for you to prepare and set expectations.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the U.S. straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for an IR-2 Visa or a Family-Based Green Card, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
