Family-Based Immigrant Visa for Adult Children of U.S. Citizens
The F1 visa is a family-based immigrant visa that allows unmarried sons and daughters (21 years or older) of U.S. citizens to immigrate to the United States and become lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders).
At Borderless Lawyers, we help families navigate the long waiting times and complex immigration process involved in F1 preference petitions.
✅ What Is the F1 Immigrant Visa?
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Part of the Family First Preference (F1) immigration category
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For unmarried adult sons and daughters (21 or older) of U.S. citizens
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Leads to permanent residency (Green Card)
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Subject to annual visa limits and country-based backlogs
🔍 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for an F1 visa:
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You must be the unmarried son or daughter (age 21 or older) of a U.S. citizen
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A Form I-130 petition must be filed by your U.S. citizen parent
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You must provide proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate)
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No serious criminal or immigration violations
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Intention to live permanently in the U.S.
📋 Application Process
1. Filing Form I-130
Your U.S. citizen parent submits a petition to USCIS.
2. Wait for Priority Date to Become Current
The F1 visa is subject to long waiting times based on the Visa Bulletin.
3. NVC Processing
Once your priority date is current, your case moves to the National Visa Center for further processing.
4. Consular Interview
Attend an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy, provide medical exam, police certificates, and civil documents.
5. Visa Approval and U.S. Entry
After approval, you receive an immigrant visa to travel to the U.S. and obtain your Green Card.
💡 Key Benefits of the F1 Visa
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Pathway to lawful permanent residency and eventual U.S. citizenship
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Ability to live, work, and study in the U.S.
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Eligible to apply for Adjustment of Status if already in the U.S. and a visa is available
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Opportunity to sponsor eligible relatives in the future
⏳ Note on Processing Times
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The F1 category is subject to numerical limits and can have long wait times (often several years depending on the country).
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If the beneficiary marries, they become ineligible for the F1 category and may require a new petition under a different category (F3 – married sons/daughters of U.S. citizens).
🧾 Our Legal Services
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Form I-130 petition preparation and filing
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Priority date tracking and updates
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National Visa Center (NVC) document assistance
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Interview preparation and case strategy
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Status changes and consular support
🌐 Reuniting Families, One Visa at a Time
Our experienced immigration lawyers can help you plan ahead and manage expectations as you wait through the F1 visa process.