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How many years does it take for USCIS to approve I-130 F4?

The I-130 approval process in the F4 category can take about 14 to 15 years due to high demand and annual visa limits, making it essential to follow the laws and reliable guidance.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on December 20, 2025
2 min read
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The F4 visa category, intended for brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, involves a long wait due to high demand and annual visa limits. This means that even after the initial approval of the I-130 form by USCIS, it can take many years for the entire immigration process to be completed.

In general, the time for I-130 approval in the F4 category is around 14 to 15 years. This timeframe is mainly due to the need to wait for visa availability as published monthly in the U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin. It”s worth remembering that this number is an average and may vary depending on the applicant”s nationality, updates in immigration policies, and other administrative factors.

Furthermore, it is important to understand that the approval of the I-130 petition is only the first step. Afterwards, it is necessary to proceed with consular processing or adjustment of status, which may involve additional steps and timeframes.

It is always essential to strictly follow U.S. immigration laws and seek information from reliable sources. If you decide to seek specialized guidance, make sure to turn to well-qualified entities or professionals, avoiding any offers that promise fast or guaranteed solutions, as there are many marketing campaigns that may not be trustworthy. Staying well informed about changes in policies and deadlines helps avoid surprises and make safe decisions throughout the journey.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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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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How many years does it take for USCIS to approve I-130 F4?

The I-130 approval process in the F4 category can take about 14 to 15 years due to high demand and annual visa limits, making it essential to follow the laws and reliable guidance.

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