F4 Visa: Complete Guide to Who Qualifies and How to Apply for Family-Based Immigration

Understanding the F4 Family Preference Visa

The F4 visa represents one of the most sought-after pathways for family reunification in the United States immigration system. As a fourth preference family-sponsored visa, it specifically caters to siblings of U.S. citizens, offering a legal channel for brothers and sisters to reunite with their American family members.

At LegitJapa, we understand that family separation is one of the most challenging aspects of international relocation. Our transparent, verified approach to immigration guidance ensures you receive accurate information directly from official sources, eliminating the guesswork and misinformation that plagues many immigration consultations.

Who Qualifies for the F4 Visa?

Primary Eligibility Requirements

The Petitioner Must:

• Be a U.S. citizen (not a permanent resident/green card holder)
• Be at least 21 years old
• Provide proof of citizenship (U.S. birth certificate, passport, or certificate of naturalization)
• Demonstrate the genuine sibling relationship through official documentation

The Beneficiary Must:

• Be the brother or sister of the U.S. citizen petitioner
• Share at least one common parent (biological or through adoption meeting specific requirements)
• Meet standard U.S. immigration admissibility requirements

Key Relationship Requirements

Biological Siblings: You must share at least one biological parent. Half-siblings qualify if you share one biological parent.

Adopted Siblings: The adoption must have occurred before the sibling turned 16, and the adopting parent must have had legal custody for at least two years.

Step-Siblings: Generally do not qualify unless the relationship existed before both siblings turned 18 and the marriage creating the step-relationship still exists.

Step-by-Step F4 Visa Application Process

Phase 1: Petition Filing (Form I-130)

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

• Petitioner’s proof of U.S. citizenship
• Birth certificates for both petitioner and beneficiary
• Documentation proving sibling relationship (family photos, school records, affidavits)
• Marriage certificates (if either party is married)
• Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)

Step 2: File Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative

• Submit to USCIS with supporting documents
• Pay required filing fees (current fee: $535)
• Receive Form I-797, Notice of Action confirming receipt

Step 3: Wait for Petition Approval

• Current processing time: 6-12 months
• Monitor case status through USCIS online portal

Phase 2: Visa Availability and Application

Step 4: Wait for Visa Availability

• F4 visas are subject to annual numerical limits
• Check Visa Bulletin monthly for priority date updates
• Current wait times: Approximately 14-20 years for most countries

Step 5: Complete Visa Application

• Once priority date is current, complete Form DS-260 online
• Pay required visa application fees
• Gather civil documents for interview

Step 6: Medical Examination

• Complete with USCIS-approved physician
• Must be done within timeframe before interview

Phase 3: Interview and Final Steps

Step 7: Visa Interview

• Scheduled at U.S. embassy or consulate in beneficiary’s country
• Bring all original documents and copies
• Be prepared to answer questions about relationship and background

Step 8: Visa Approval and Travel

• Receive passport with F4 visa stamp
• Must enter U.S. within visa validity period
• Receive Green Card by mail after entry

Required Documentation Checklist

For the Petitioner:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or passport)
• Proof of identity (government-issued ID)
• Evidence of sibling relationship
• Form I-130 filing fee

For the Beneficiary:

• Birth certificate with professional translation if not in English
• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay
• Police clearance certificates from all countries lived in for 6+ months since age 16
• Military records (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Divorce or death certificates of previous spouses (if applicable)
• Photographs meeting USCIS specifications
• Medical examination results

F4 Visa Processing Times and Current Wait Times

The F4 visa category faces significant backlogs due to high demand and annual numerical limits. As of 2024:

Priority Date Wait Times:

• Philippines: Approximately 23 years
• Mexico: Approximately 20 years
• All other countries: Approximately 14-16 years

Total Processing Timeline:

• I-130 processing: 6-12 months
• Visa availability wait: 14-23 years (depending on country)
• NVC processing: 2-4 months after visa becomes available
• Interview scheduling: 1-3 months after document qualification

Common Reasons for F4 Visa Denial and How to Avoid Them

1. Insufficient Proof of Relationship

Solution: Provide multiple forms of evidence including birth certificates, school records, family photographs, and affidavits from relatives.

2. Inadmissibility Issues

Solution: Address potential grounds like criminal history, health issues, or immigration violations proactively with legal counsel.

3. Financial Support Concerns

Solution: Ensure petitioner meets income requirements or use joint sponsors who qualify.

4. Documentation Errors

Solution: Double-check all forms for accuracy and ensure translations are certified.

Why Choose Professional Guidance for Your F4 Visa Application?

At LegitJapa, we’ve helped numerous families navigate the complex F4 visa process since 2018. Our approach includes:

✅ Verified Information: All guidance comes directly from official USCIS sources and our network of immigration experts abroad.

✅ Personalized Strategy: We assess your specific situation and provide tailored advice for your F4 visa journey.

✅ Document Review: Comprehensive checking of all paperwork to minimize errors and delays.

✅ Timeline Management: Help tracking priority dates and preparing for next steps in advance.

✅ Ethical Process: We only provide legal, transparent guidance—no false promises or shortcuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I include my spouse and children in my F4 visa application?

A: Yes, derivatives (spouse and unmarried children under 21) can be included, but they’ll be subject to the same waiting period.

Q: What happens if the petitioner dies during the waiting period?

A: Under certain circumstances, the petition may continue under humanitarian reinstatement provisions.

Q: Can I visit the U.S. while waiting for my F4 visa?

A: You can apply for a visitor visa, but must demonstrate strong ties to your home country and no immigrant intent.

Q: How can I check my priority date status?

A: Monitor the monthly Visa Bulletin published by the U.S. Department of State.

Take the Next Step in Your Family Reunification Journey

The F4 visa process requires patience, meticulous documentation, and careful planning. While the wait times are substantial, proper preparation ensures you’ll be ready when your priority date becomes current.

At LegitJapa, we provide the genuine guidance and transparent process needed to navigate family-based immigration successfully. Our paid consultation service offers personalized assessment and step-by-step support through every stage of your immigration journey.

Ready to begin your family reunification process? Contact us for a comprehensive discovery session and let us help you build a solid foundation for your F4 visa application.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws change frequently—always consult with a qualified immigration attorney for your specific situation. All processing times are estimates based on current data and subject to change.