I have two petitions: F4 and F2B. Which one should I use?

To begin with, it is important to understand that the F4 and F2B petitions apply to different categories within the United States immigration system, depending on the family relationship with the petitioner. Each has specific criteria and processing timeframes, which can impact the best path depending on your particular case.

The F4 petition is intended for brothers and sisters of United States citizens. If you are a brother or sister of a U.S. citizen, this is the appropriate category. It is important to note that, historically, the waiting times for the F4 tend to be longer, reflecting the high demand and the limited availability of slots provided by the system.

On the other hand, the F2B category is aimed at unmarried sons and daughters over 21 years of age of lawful permanent residents of the United States. If your relationship with the petitioner fits this condition, then F2B is the indicated option. Just like F4, there are processing times that vary over the years and depend on demand and updates in the priority dates charts.

If you already have two petitions – one in the F4 category and another in F2B – the decision on which to follow or prioritize may depend on factors such as current waiting times, changes in immigration policy, or even updates in the priority dates charts. Thus, it is recommended to analyze which of the cases offers a possibility for faster advancement based on your specific situation. At times, it may be advantageous to maintain both petitions until there is a change that allows a better evaluation of which one brings concrete progress.

It is essential to remember that complying with the United States immigration laws and regulations is crucial to avoid complications. If there are any doubts or if you need more detailed guidance, always seek reliable sources and specialized professionals in the field – avoiding those who offer miracle solutions or guarantee results that may not align with the reality of the legal procedures.

This guidance aims to help understand the differences between the petitions and encourage a careful analysis before making any decision. Each case has its particularities, and the choice will depend on your relationship and the specific circumstances of your family situation. Always stay well informed and cautious when making important decisions throughout the process.

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.