An F-3 visa is a family-based green card. It can allow relatives of a U.S. citizen several benefits and the opportunity to live and work in the United States legally. If you are wondering whether or not you and your family qualify for an F-3 visa, continue reading and speak with an experienced Montgomery County family immigration lawyer.

Who is Eligible for an F-3 Visa?

Eligibility for an F-3 visa is dependent on the relationship a person has with a United States citizen. The following people are eligible for an F-3 visa, given that all other requirements are met.

  • The married child of a United States citizen
  • The spouse of a child of a United States citizen
  • The children (under 21 and unmarried) of a child of a United States citizen

Essentially if a U.S. citizen has a child who is not a citizen, the child, son or daughter-in-law, and grandchildren can apply for an F-3 visa. It is important to note that the child’s spouse and children can only apply in tandem with the U.S. citizen’s child. They are not eligible on their own. All of these requirements must be proved during the application process.

What is the Application Process?

The application process to get an F-3 visa is quite lengthy and in reality, is broken up into two parts. The first step is for the U.S. citizen to send in a petition for their child, the spouse, and minor children. After that, the child and their family will apply for the visa. More detailed steps can be found below.

  1. The U.S. citizen will file a petition I-130 on behalf of their married child and their family.
  2. If the petition is approved the child’s information will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). If the petition is not approved a reason will be provided and the U.S. citizen will be able to submit a new petition.
  3. The child and their family will receive a packet of information shipped to them in their country with instructions on the next steps, a case number, invoice ID number, and priority date. Due to high demand, the family may be unable to apply for several weeks or months.
  4. The NVC will notify the family when their priority date is current and they can continue the application process.
  5. File form DS-260, the Immigrant Visa Electronic Application. Ensure one is submitted for each applicant. Include information about the applicant’s background, reason for immigration, and more.
  6. Attend a medical examination and receive all required vaccines. Have proof signed by a licensed doctor.
  7. Compile relevant documents and information to show the NVC that the applicants are eligible for an F-3 visa. This may include valid passports, a signed Affidavit of Support, the visa application confirmation page, medical documents, two visa photos per person, a valid marriage certificate, birth certificates, adoption papers, criminal records, etc.
  8. Attend an interview at a US Consulate or Embassy. An officer will ask questions regarding each applicant’s personal history, background, etc.
  9. Receive the visa and go to the United States. Once approved each applicant’s passport will be stamped with the F-3 visa and the family will receive a package to present to immigration officers at the U.S. border.