F3 is the third preference category for family-based immigration, for married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. Approximately 23,400 visas are available annually. Wait times are typically very long.
Current Priority Dates
Current bulletin dates
(F3)Historical Trends
Visa Bulletin trends
09/2026
F3
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Eligibility Requirements
Sponsor Requirements
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must prove citizenship
- Must be at least 21 years old
Beneficiary Requirements
- Must be the sponsor's adult child
- Must be married
- Can bring spouse and minor children
Derivative Beneficiaries
F3 applicants can bring:
- Spouse
- Unmarried children under 21
Application Process
Main Steps
-
I-130 Petition
- Sponsor (U.S. citizen) files I-130
- Filed for primary beneficiary
- Derivative beneficiaries don't need separate I-130
-
Long Wait
- F3 wait times are typically very long
- May wait 10+ years
- Check visa bulletin regularly
-
NVC Processing
- Case transfers to NVC when priority date approaches
- Pay fees
- Submit DS-260 and supporting documents
-
Consular Interview
- Complete medical exam
- Entire family interviews together
- Receive immigrant visa
Special Situations
Converting from Other Categories
- F1 to F3: Unmarried child converts to F3 after marriage
- Priority date is retained (if sponsor was already a citizen)
- Wait time may increase
Effect of Divorce
- Primary beneficiary may convert to F1 category after divorce
- Must update USCIS/NVC
- Spouse and stepchildren will lose eligibility
Waiting Strategies
Keep Documents Updated
Due to long wait times:
- Update address regularly
- Keep copies of all documents
- Track case status
Consider Alternatives
- Employment-based immigration (if eligible)
- Diversity Visa Lottery
- Other family relationship applications
Child Age-Out Issues
- Children may turn 21 during the wait
- CSPA may provide protection
- Aged-out children may need separate applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit the U.S. while waiting?
You can visit briefly with a tourist visa, but must demonstrate non-immigrant intent. A pending immigrant application may increase visa denial risk.
What if the sponsor passes away?
- Case may be terminated
- Humanitarian reinstatement may be possible in some cases
- Consult an immigration attorney
Can the process be expedited?
F3 category cannot be expedited. You must wait patiently for the priority date.