F2B

F2B is a subcategory of the second preference for family-based immigration, for unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age or older) of Lawful Permanent Residents. Approximately 26,300 visas are available annually (23% of F2 category).

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Current Priority Dates

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Historical Trends

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Eligibility Requirements

Sponsor Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Permanent Resident (green card holder)
• Must provide valid green card proof
• Meet affidavit of support requirements

Beneficiary Requirements

• Must be the sponsor's child
• At least 21 years old
• Must remain unmarried

Important: If you marry while waiting, you will lose F2B eligibility and cannot convert to another category (unless the sponsor naturalizes).

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Application Process

Process Overview

1. I-130 Petition

   • Sponsor files I-130
   • Obtain priority date

2. Long Wait

   • F2B wait times are typically long
   • May require waiting many years

3. NVC Stage

   • Case is processed by NVC when priority date approaches
   • Pay fees and submit documents

4. Interview and Approval

   • Complete medical exam
   • Consular interview
   • Receive immigrant visa

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Special Situations for F2B

Sponsor Naturalizes

When the green card holder becomes a U.S. citizen:

• F2B case automatically converts to F1 category
• F1 wait times may be longer or shorter than F2B
• Evaluate your specific situation

Beneficiary Gets Married

• If sponsor is still a green card holder: Lose eligibility, cannot convert to another category
• If sponsor is now a citizen: Can convert to F3 category

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Priority Date Comparison

F2B typically has among the longer wait times in family categories:

Category	Typical Wait Time
F2A	Relatively short
F2B	Long
F1	Long
F3	Very long
F4	Longest

Actual wait times vary by country of birth and filing date

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Strategy Tips

1. Remain Unmarried

   • Marriage will disqualify you
   • Consider marriage plans carefully

2. Monitor Sponsor's Naturalization

   • Naturalization changes the category
   • May affect priority date progress

3. Consider Other Pathways

   • If eligible, apply for employment-based immigration simultaneously
   • Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Lottery)

4. Keep Contact Information Updated

   • Wait times are long
   • Ensure you can receive notifications

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Related Resources

• Family-Based Immigration →
• Green Card Glossary →
• Latest Priority Dates →