IMPORTANT: The F2A Visa generally has a two-year backlog. As of March 2026, USCIS is reviewing cases filed approximately 2 years ago. It is vital to visit our office to update your worksheet and to ensure your information is current.
Lawful Permanent Resident Petition for Spouse or Minor Child Under 21 (Visa F2A)
Your Green Card is the Bridge. We Help You Cross It Together.
Petition for your foreign-national spouse or child under 21. Priority date monitoring every month.
Family Immigration Pathway: Petitioning for Your Spouse or Minor Child (Visa F2A)
Navigating the family-sponsored immigration process can be complex, but understanding the F2A category is key to uniting with your loved ones. The second preference in the family-sponsored category has an annual limit set by law. Under INA §203(a), the number of applicants often exceeds the available slots, leading to wait times. Admissions to all family preference visas are processed sequentially, prioritizing the filing date of the initial document submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Each category experiences fluctuations in actual annual admissions compared to the established limits. The F2A category, specifically designed for petitions from Lawful Permanent Residents on behalf of their spouses and unmarried children under 21, typically sees around 114,200 admissions each year. Notably, Congress has allocated 77 percent—approximately 87,934 visa slots—specifically for the F2A category, ensuring a focused pathway for families.
At the Law Office of Steven C. Benke, we pride ourselves on over 20 years of successful experience in navigating family matters. Our commitment to excellence means we guide you through every step of the application process with precision and care. We are dedicated to fostering family unity and ensuring a seamless experience, making us the trusted choice for families seeking reliable support. Let us partner with you to achieve the best possible outcome for your family.
THE COMPLETE F2A PROCESS — 7 STEPS
1
Eligibility Review
Confirm LPR status & Visa Bulletin priority dates
2
I-130 Filing
We prepare and submit Form I-130 with all supporting documents
3
Priority Date Watch
Monthly Visa Bulletin monitoring + client notifications
4
NVC Processing (CEAC)
Financial docs, DS-260, civil records on CEAC platform
5
Medical Exam
USCIS-approved panel physician abroad
6
Consulate Interview
We prepare your beneficiary for the final interview
7
Entry as Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) / Green Card
Beneficiary enters U.S. — Green Card mailed within 20 days