Parent Green Card Process for Adult Children  

If you’re a U.S. citizen or green card holder parent trying to bring your unmarried child over 21 to the U.S., you’re probably wondering why the process is taking so long. The answer lies in the complex visa system managed by the U.S. Department of State, which issues a monthly visa bulletin that outlines the availability of immigrant visas for different preference categories. 

LaToya McBean Pompy immigrated to the United States herself. Her experience sparked an interest in helping many families unite in the U.S. by founding McBean Law. If you need help with your or a loved one’s visa, contact us here or call us today at (888)-462-4006 to schedule a private consultation with LaToya and her team of immigration attorneys, who are here to help you. 

Understanding Visa Categories 

When you file for your adult child, the application falls under one of two categories: F1 or F2B. The F1 category is for unmarried children of U.S. Citizens, while the F2B category is for unmarried children of Permanent Residents. The wait time for a visa can vary significantly depending on the category. 

The Role of the Visa Bulletin 

The visa bulletin is updated monthly and includes two important tables: “Dates for Filing” and “Final Action Date.” Your priority date, which is essentially your place in line, needs to become current according to these tables before you can proceed with the next steps. 

The Process After Your Priority Date Becomes Current 

Once your priority date is current according to the “Dates for Filing” table, you’ll receive a welcome letter from the National Visa Center (NVC). This letter will include your case number and invoice number—critical details needed to apply for your visa. 

After you submit all required documents, you will be considered “documentarily qualified.” This means your application is complete and you’re now in the queue for an interview.

Waiting for Your Interview Appointment 

Here’s where things get tricky. Although you’re now documentarily qualified, you won’t receive an interview date until your visa is current according to the “Final Action Date” table. The final action dates are updated monthly and reflect visa availability. 

Once your case becomes current under the Final Action Date table, the NVC will coordinate with the U.S. Embassy assigned to your case to schedule an interview. This scheduling depends on the embassy’s availability and backlog. 

Why is the Wait So Long? 

The wait time for an interview can be lengthy due to several factors. Each embassy may have different levels of backlog and processing times. Furthermore, visa availability and the number of applications can fluctuate, affecting how quickly your case progresses. 

If you’re waiting for your interview, you can check the status of your case by contacting the NVC through their public inquiry form. While the process can be slow, especially for those in the F1 or F2B categories, understanding each step and staying informed can help manage expectations. 

In summary, the lengthy process of filing for adult children stems from the intricate and often congested visa system. Patience and persistence are key as you navigate the various stages of this process. 

Planning Your Roadmap to Success  

Whether you are seeking assistance with visa applications, green cards, citizenship, or any other immigration matter, we are here to help you every step of the way. Our mission is not just to provide legal services but to empower our clients with the knowledge and resources they need to achieve their immigration goals. With proper legal counsel, persistent preparation, and meticulous attention to detail, your success can become a reality too. Partner with professionals like McBean Law to chart your visa journey’s triumph.  

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LaToya McBean Pompy is an immigration lawyer who immigrated to the United States from Jamaica. Her experience sparked an interest in helping many families be together in the U.S. by founding McBean Law. If you need help with your or a loved one’s visa, contact us here or call us today at (888)-462-4006 to schedule a private consultation with LaToya and her team of New York immigration lawyers who are here to help you.