What Is the Difference Between IR and F Family Visas?

 Posted on October 28, 2024 in family-based immigration

Someone who wants to become a lawful permanent resident (LPR) of the United States — also referred to as getting a green card — has several options. One of the best ways is by showing you have a family member who is a U.S. citizen or LPR. If that family member is willing to sponsor you, you may be eligible for a visa that can help you get a green card. But which family members are acceptable to immigration authorities?

There are two types of family-based immigrant visas: an immediate relative (IR) visa and a family preference (F) visa. This article will discuss each visa and explore the differences between them. For more details or legal assistance in any immigration-related matter, contact an experienced Texas immigration attorney.

What Is an IR Visa?

An immediate relative (IR) visa is for applicants who have close family members with U.S. citizenship. This is generally the fastest way to become an LPR because the wait time for the visa is shorter. Family members who qualify as immediate relatives are:

• Spouses: The husband or wife of a U.S. citizen can apply for an IR-1 visa.
• Unmarried children: An unmarried applicant under 21 who is the child of a U.S. citizen can apply for an IR-2 visa.
• Parents: The parent of a U.S. citizen who is 21 or older can apply for an IR-5 visa.

What Is an F Visa?

A family preference (F) visa is when the applicant’s U.S. citizen relatives are more distant. This type of visa has more restrictions than an IR visa and includes only the following family members:

• First preference (F1): This visa is available to applicants who are unmarried children of U.S. citizens and at least 21 years old.
• Second preference (F2A): This visa is available to spouses of LPRs or applicants who are unmarried children of LPRs and under 21.
• Second preference (F2B): This visa is for applicants who are unmarried children of LPRs and 21 or older.
• Third preference (F3): This visa is for married children of U.S. citizens.
• Fourth preference (F4): This visa is available to siblings of U.S. citizens as long as the citizen is 21 or older.

What Are the Key Differences Between IR and F Visas?

In addition to the difference in the relation of family members, there are significant contrasts between the two visas:

• Generally speaking, the annual number of family preference visas is capped at 226,000, though it might be more if there are unused visas from the year prior. There are no quotas for IR visas.
• Because of the limited availability of family preference visas, obtaining one can be a much longer wait than an IR visa.
• The green card processing times for IR visas are generally quicker than those for family preference visas.

Contact a Dallas, TX Immigration Lawyer

Applying for any immigrant visa can be a complex and lengthy process. Make sure you complete each step with the guidance of a Plano, TX immigration attorney. At the Law Office of Jae Lee, we understand the nuances of immigration law, and attorney Jae Lee is prepared to guide you personally through the process. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 214-295-3014 now.