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F4: if the principal beneficiary is not interested, but the dependent wants to, is it possible?

Dependents in the F4 category can only immigrate if the principal beneficiary, the brother or sister of the U.S. citizen, continues the visa process.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on February 10, 2025
2 min read
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Let”s start by explaining that visas in the Family Based category, such as the F4, are structured to benefit direct family relationships, where there is a principal beneficiary – in the case of the F4, the brother or sister of a U.S. citizen – and their dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old), who can be included in the same petition.

In the context of this category, dependents do not have the autonomy to initiate the immigration process separately. This means that if the principal beneficiary decides not to proceed with the process or is not interested in immigrating, the dependents cannot, by themselves, apply for the F4 visa.

The petition is based on the primary relationship (the brother or sister), and dependents can only be included if the principal beneficiary is indeed participating and moving forward with the process. In other words, the eligibility of the dependents is directly linked to the decision and approval of the principal beneficiary.

Therefore, it is essential that all steps and requirements are met according to United States immigration laws. If there are doubts or if the situation requires a more detailed study, it is recommended to seek information from official sources or qualified specialists, avoiding pitfalls, scams, or unfounded promises through marketing campaigns.

This way, you ensure a safer path that complies with current legislation.

Learn more about Family Based Visa

All about Family Based Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

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F4: if the principal beneficiary is not interested, but the dependent wants to, is it possible?

Dependents in the F4 category can only immigrate if the principal beneficiary, the brother or sister of the U.S. citizen, continues the visa process.

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