Usa f4 visa latest news

Here are the latest news and updates on the F-4 visa, also known as the "Immediate Relative" visa, which is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. citizens to bring their immediate relatives, such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents, to the United States:

Latest News:

  1. F-4 Visa Backlog: As of October 2022, the U.S. Department of State's Visa Office reported a significant backlog of F-4 visa applications, with an estimated 1.3 million applicants waiting for processing. This backlog has been caused by a combination of factors, including increased demand, limited resources, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
  2. F-4 Visa Wait Times: The wait times for F-4 visa processing have increased significantly in recent years. According to the U.S. Department of State, the wait times for F-4 visas are currently:
    • Spouses: 12-18 months
    • Unmarried children under 21: 12-24 months
    • Parents: 24-36 months
  3. F-4 Visa Interview Waivers: In an effort to reduce the backlog, the U.S. Department of State has introduced interview waivers for certain F-4 visa applicants. This means that some applicants may not need to attend an in-person interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
  4. F-4 Visa Fee Increase: As of October 2022, the U.S. Department of State increased the F-4 visa application fee from $325 to $345. This fee increase is intended to help cover the costs of processing F-4 visa applications.
  5. F-4 Visa Eligibility: The F-4 visa is only available to U.S. citizens who have a qualifying relative, such as a spouse, unmarried child under 21, or parent. The relative must meet certain eligibility requirements, including being a U.S. citizen or national, and not being inadmissible to the United States.

Recent Changes:

  1. F-4 Visa Processing Prioritization: In 2020, the U.S. Department of State introduced a new prioritization system for F-4 visa processing. This system prioritizes applications based on the age of the applicant, with younger applicants being processed first.
  2. F-4 Visa Interview Scheduling: In 2020, the U.S. Department of State introduced a new online system for scheduling F-4 visa interviews. This system allows applicants to schedule their own interviews, rather than relying on the U.S. embassy or consulate to schedule the interview.

Tips and Reminders:

  1. Apply Early: To avoid delays, it's recommended that U.S. citizens apply for an F-4 visa as early as possible.
  2. Gather Required Documents: Make sure to gather all required documents, including proof of relationship, birth certificates, and passports.
  3. Check Visa Wait Times: Check the U.S. Department of State's website for the most up-to-date information on F-4 visa wait times.
  4. Consult with an Immigration Attorney: If you're unsure about the F-4 visa application process or have questions about eligibility, it's recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney.

I hope this information is helpful!