F4 is the fourth preference category for family-based immigration, for siblings of U.S. citizens. Approximately 65,000 visas are available annually. This category has the longest wait times, often 15-20+ years.
Current Priority Dates
Current bulletin dates
(F4)Historical Trends
Visa Bulletin trends
09/2026
F4
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Eligibility Requirements
Sponsor Requirements
- Must be a U.S. citizen (green card holders cannot sponsor)
- Must be at least 21 years old
- Must provide proof of citizenship
Beneficiary Requirements
- Must be the sponsor's sibling
- Full siblings, half-siblings are eligible
- Step-siblings may qualify under certain conditions
Proving Sibling Relationship
Must prove common parentage:
- Birth certificates showing common parent(s)
- Parents' marriage certificate (if applicable)
- DNA testing (if documents are insufficient)
Derivative Beneficiaries
F4 applicants can bring:
- Spouse
- Unmarried children under 21
Extended Wait Times
Current Priority Date Status
F4 has the longest wait times of all family immigration categories:
| Country/Region | Typical Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Mainland China | 15-18 years |
| India | 15-18 years |
| Mexico | 20-24 years |
| Philippines | 22-25 years |
| Other Countries | 15-18 years |
Actual wait times vary by filing date
Application Process
Phase 1: I-130
- U.S. citizen sponsor files I-130
- Provide proof of sibling relationship
- Obtain priority date
Phase 2: Long Wait
- Wait 15-20+ years
- Update contact information regularly
- Monitor priority date progress
Phase 3: NVC Processing
- Case transfers to NVC when priority date approaches current
- Pay visa fees
- Submit online forms and documents
Phase 4: Interview and Approval
- Schedule medical exam
- Consular interview
- Receive immigrant visa
- Enter U.S. as permanent resident
Challenges of Long Wait
Maintaining Contact
- Must promptly notify of address changes
- Maintain valid contact information
- Regularly confirm case status
Expired Documents
- Some documents may need to be updated
- Keep copies of all documents
- Understand document validity periods
Family Changes
- Sponsor or beneficiary may pass away
- Marital status may change
- Children may age out
Child Age-Out Issues
During the long wait, children may:
- Turn 21 and lose derivative eligibility
- Need a separate immigration petition
- Have limited CSPA protection
Strategy Tips
File Early
- Priority date starts from I-130 receipt date
- Earlier filing means earlier in line
- Can file even if uncertain
Diversify Strategy
Consider other pathways simultaneously:
- Employment-based immigration (if eligible)
- Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Lottery)
- Other family relationships
Remain Patient
- F4 has the longest wait times
- Prepare for extended waiting period
- Build your life while waiting
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if the sponsor passes away?
- Case is usually terminated
- Some humanitarian exceptions may apply
- Consult an immigration attorney
Can I convert to another category?
- F4 category cannot be converted
- If you have other eligibility, apply separately
Can I visit the U.S. while waiting?
You can apply for a tourist visa, but a pending immigrant application may affect approval.