The US immigration system allows citizens to sponsor close family members for lawful permanent residence, also known as a green card. For those looking to bring their married sons and daughters to the United States, the F3 visa offers a viable path to family reunification.
At Remitly, we understand how important family connections are—especially when it comes to living, working, and thriving together. That’s why we created this in-depth guide to the F3 visa: a family-based immigration visa category that allows US citizens to sponsor their married children for lawful immigration.
This guide is for both petitioners (US citizen parents) and beneficiaries (married children and their immediate families). This resource walks you though eligibility, application steps, key documents, and common pitfalls.
What is the F3 visa?
The F3 visa is part of the family-based preference system in the US immigration law. It applies specifically to:
- Married sons and daughters (21 years or older) of US citizens
- Their spouses and unmarried children under age 21, who may immigrate under the same petition
This visa provides a path to US permanent residency, though demand and strict annual caps often mean long wait times.
Who qualifies for the F3 visa?
To be eligible for the F3 visa:
- The sponsor must be a US citizen who is at least 21 years old
- The beneficiary must be the sponsor’s married son or daughter
- The beneficiary’s spouse and unmarried minor children may be included in the application
Required documentation
To start the family reunification visa process, you’ll need a few documents.
For sponsors:
-
- Proof of US citizenship (valid US passport and birth or naturalization certificate)
- Completed and signed Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) with supporting financial documentation
For beneficiaries:
- Birth and marriage certificates
- A valid passport (for at least six months after your planned arrival)
- A signed Form I-864, Affidavit of Support from your parent
- Valid passports of your spouse and kids if they’re coming with you
- Birth certificate or adoption documents for your kids
- Police clearance or any court/criminal records
- Passport-style photos that follow the official size and quality guidelines
If any of these documents are not in English, you’ll need to include certified translations. Mistakes, missing details, or mismatched information can cause delays or denials. Be sure to double-check everything.
If you meet the F3 family-based visa requirements and have all the necessary documents ready, you can start the application process.
F3 visa step-by-step application process
Here’s how to apply for the F3 visa, from petition to interview.
Step one: File Form I-130
The sponsor should start the family reunification visa process by submitting Form I-130 to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This establishes the parent’s qualifying relationship with the married son or daughter.
Tips for filing Form I-130 correctly:
- Fill out every part of the form. USCIS may reject it if key sections, like your relationship, personal details or information of the beneficiary are missing.
- Be sure to sign the form yourself; USCIS won’t accept unsigned forms.
- Pay the filing fee.
Step two: USCIS review and priority date assignment
Once received, USCIS reviews the petition for children and their families. If approved, the petition is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC). The priority date is assigned at this stage and determines your place in line due to annual visa caps.
Step three: Monitor the Visa Bulletin
F3 visas are subject to quotas and long wait times. That said, it might take some time for your priority date to become current. To keep track, check the US Department of State’s monthly Visa Bulletin for updates. Once your priority date becomes current, it means a visa number is available and you can move to the next step.
Step four: National Visa Center (NVC) processing
When your priority date becomes current, the NVC will contact and give you a case number, invoice ID, and instructions to begin visa processing, including:
- Paying required fees through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEACC)
- Providing an Affidavit of Support and supporting financial documents
- Submitting civil documents, such as birth and marriage certificates
- Filling out and submitting Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application) on the CEAC portal
After submitting the form, you’ll get a confirmation page and case number.
Step five: Consular interview
After document review, the NVC will schedule a visa interview for you at your country’s US embassy or consulate. Attend the interview with all required documents. You’ll also undergo a medical examination by an authorized physician approved by the embassy. The fee varies by country, but usually ranges from $200 to $500 USD, and the results are submitted directly to the embassy or consulate.
Bring the following to your interview:
- Appointment confirmation letter
- DS-260 confirmation page
- Valid passport
- Original civil documents
- Form I-864 and financial evidence
- Visa payment receipts
- Sealed medical exam report
F3 visa processing time also varies by country, but can range from one to ten years. If approved, you’ll receive a visa stamped in your passport, along with a sealed immigration packet. Do not open the packet because you’ll need to show it to US Customs and Border Protection when you enter the country.
After receiving your visa, you can make travel arrangements to join your parents in the US.
F3 visa validity, work rights, and green card status
What happens after approval?
Once approved and admitted to the US, F3 visa holders become lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
Work authorization
You may not work in the US while waiting for your visa abroad. However, after entering the US with your immigrant visa, you may work legally as a green card holder.
If you’re already in the US under another visa (such as F1 or H4), you may be eligible to apply for a work permit via Form I-765 when filing Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status). You can also request a work permit called an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which allows you to work legally in the US while you wait for your green card.
Common challenges
You may run into a few challenges during the family reunification visa process. But if you know what to watch out for, you can handle the process easily.
Extended wait times due to visa caps
The US government has put an annual cap of 23,400 on the F3 visa category, which often leads to significant backlogs. For this reason, you may face lengthy wait times.
To track your priority date, check the US Department of State’s Visa Bulletin regularly. Staying informed helps you prepare for the next steps when your priority date becomes current.
Documentation errors and inconsistencies
One of the most common problems is submitting your application with errors and inconsistencies. This can lead to delays or even denials. To avoid this, double-check all documents for accuracy and completeness before submission.
If you’re unsure about anything, consult with an immigration expert to ensure all forms and supporting documents are consistent and correctly presented.
Insufficient financial documentation
If the sponsor doesn’t provide adequate financial proof as part of the Affidavit of Support, visa officers can delay or even deny your application. Visa officers require clear evidence that the sponsor can support you.
The sponsor needs to submit documents, such as bank statements or job offer letters. These documents have to prove that the sponsor earns at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. This demonstrates financial stability and confirms they meet the F3 family-based visa requirements.
Inadequate preparation for visa interview
Going into the visa interview unprepared can hurt your approval chances. You may struggle to clearly explain your purpose and intentions.
Prepare by practicing common questions with a legal advisor or someone familiar with the F3 visa process. Speaking with confidence and clarity can make a big difference in the outcome.
Ignoring follow-up requests
Delays in replying to visa office requests can slow down your application process. Stay in touch with the visa office and respond quickly to any document or information request. Check your email regularly, including the spam folder, so you don’t miss anything important.
Managing emotional and psychological impacts
The long wait and uncertainty of the F3 visa processing time can be emotionally challenging. It’s normal to feel stressed or anxious. Lean on family, friends, or community support groups for encouragement. Staying informed and organized can help you feel more in control and ease some of the stress.
Limited access to legal assistance
Navigating the family reunification visa process can be complex, and not all applicants can afford a lawyer. If that’s your case, look for trusted resources online, check with community groups, and find legal aid organizations that offer valuable guidance and support throughout the application process for free.
By staying informed and prepared, you can avoid common problems and enjoy a smoother transition to life in the United States.
Final thoughts
The immigrant visa for married children of US citizens is your ticket to getting a green card and reuniting your family. Understanding eligibility criteria, preparing the required documents, and following application steps carefully can help ensure a smoother experience. While the F3 visa processing time can be lengthy, staying organized and informed makes a big difference.
Ready to take the next step? Consult with qualified immigration professionals for personalized guidance to increase your chances of success. Don’t delay your family reunification goals. Get started on your F3 visa application today or explore trusted immigration resources for further guidance.
FAQs
How long does it take to process an F3 visa?
Due to annual limits and high demand, F3 visas can take several years, often one to ten years. Processing time depends on your priority date and your home country.
What documents do I need for an F3 visa application?
You’ll need proof of your parents’ US citizenship, your birth and marriage certificates, valid passports, proof of relationship (for you, your spouse and your kids), police clearance, and an Affidavit of Support from your parents.
Are grandchildren eligible under the F3 visa category?
Grandchildren are not directly eligible. Only the married son or daughter, their spouse, and unmarried children under 21 can be included.
What happens if my F3 visa priority date is not current?
You’ll need to wait until your priority date is current before moving to the visa process. Keep checking the Visa Bulletin for updates.
Can I work in the US while waiting for my green card through an F3 visa?
Not unless you already have a different US visa that allows work, you cannot work on the F3 family-based category. If you’re applying from inside the US and file Form I-485, you can also apply for a work permit (EAD) while you wait.