The immigration process in the United States has recently become more transparent than it has ever been for families who are intending to reunite in the country. If you are planning to bring your spouse, children, or parents to the United States, the U.S. Mission in the United Kingdom has officially delineated the complete four-step visa application process for family-based immigration. This guide will ensure that your journey is seamless.
This roadmap is now more efficient for any family that aspires to establish a permanent residence in the United States, from the creation of your visa profile to the completion of your medical, and ultimately to the entrance of the U.S. Embassy for your interview. Therefore, prepare yourself for this thrilling disintegration that has the potential to alter the future of your family.
Benefits of US Family Visa:
- Reunification of Families: Permits the reunion of close family members (spouses, children, parents, siblings) with U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
- Route to Permanent Residence: The majority of family-based visa holders are eligible to obtain a Green Card, which will grant them permanent residency.
- Possibility of obtaining U.S. citizenship: Eligible family members may petition for U.S. citizenship after possessing a Green Card for the necessary duration, which is typically 3–5 years.
- Education Accessibility: Family visa holders, particularly children, are eligible to enroll in public institutions and subsequently qualify for in-state tuition rates at numerous U.S. colleges.
- Work Authorization: Certain family visa categories permit or facilitate work permits, which enable visa holders to legally engage in employment in the United States.
- Healthcare Accessibility: Eligible for public and private healthcare services, as well as insurance options under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
- Mobility: Family members are permitted to travel freely within and outside the United States upon receiving a Green Card, provided that they adhere to specific residency regulations.
- Retirement and Social Security Benefits: Family members may qualify for Social Security and other retirement benefits after becoming residents and satisfying the necessary criteria.
- No employment sponsorship is required: In contrast to employment visas, family visa applicants are not required to have a job offer; rather, they must have a qualifying family sponsor.
- Community Support and Integration: Newcomers are able to more quickly acclimate, receive emotional support, and become a part of the local community by residing with family.
Check Also: Germany Long-Term Visa Process
Step 1: Complete the DS-260 & Create Your Visa Profile
The Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, Form DS-260, is the starting point of your voyage. This form must be completed by each family member who is applying for a U.S. immigrant visa. However, that is not the entirety of the matter. Additionally, you are required to register your online visa account through the Visa Appointment Services website, which will:
- Confirm the appointment for your visa interview.
- Provide the option for you to select the location where you will retrieve your passport following receipt of approval.
- Permit you to reschedule your appointment (but only after the original date)
Please remember to bring your Courier Confirmation document (proof of registration) to the Embassy. No conformation, no entry!
Step 2: Medical Exam — No Exceptions, No Delays!
All applicants, irrespective of their age, are required to endure a medical examination at the Visa Medicals clinic in London, which has been approved by the Embassy. Please reserve your reservation in advance by contacting 0207 486 7822 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Chronology Please be advised that your medical examination must be completed at least two weeks prior to your scheduled visa interview. If this deadline is not met, your appointment will be postponed, resulting in a loss of time and peace of mind.
Step 3: Document Review Day — Don’t Miss It!
You will proceed to the U.S. Embassy’s Immigrant Visa Unit in London for your Document Review between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM immediately following your medical examination.
What you will require:
- The Pink Document Review Sheet that Visa Medicals provided to you
- All necessary documentation
Entry is not permitted in the absence of a pink sheet. This visit is essential and functions as the entryway to the final visa interview.
Step 4: Attend Your Visa Interview — The Final Gate
The official visa interview is the second and final visit to the U.S. Embassy, and it is scheduled according to the appointment date that was validated in your online profile.
Bring everything:
- The secured plastic envelope containing all original documents that you received during your document review
- Any documents that were instructed to be obtained but are still missing
Important Notice: Your interview will be refused if your documents are insufficient, and you will be requested to reschedule. Therefore, verify each and every detail.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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How do I get a US visa for my family?
The initial phase in the process of applying for an immigrant visa is for a U.S. citizen (petitioner) to submit an immigrant visa petition, form I-130, on behalf of a qualifying relative (beneficiary). Each immigrant must submit an individual petition.
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How long does the US family visa take to process?
The majority of Form I-130 petitions for immediate relatives are approved within a 10- to 14-month time frame; however, there are instances in which they may require additional time. USCIS will commence the examination of Form I-485 if you are currently in the United States and have also submitted an application to modify your status.
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Who is eligible for family visa USA?
Immediate Relative – these visas are granted to individuals who have a close familial relationship with a U.S. citizen, such as a spouse, child, or parent.
