Is it possible that F1 is slower than F2B?

It is important to understand that the processing times for Family Based visa categories can vary significantly according to various factors, such as the priority date, visa demand, and the guidelines established in the Visa Bulletin by the U.S. Department of State.

Thus, yes, it is possible that the progress of processes for category F1 ends up being slower than for category F2B at certain times. The F1 category includes unmarried children of U.S. citizens, and even though it is a high-preference category, high demand can generate longer waiting lines.

On the other hand, the F2B category, which refers to unmarried adult children (over 21 years old) of permanent residents, may have, at certain periods, a slightly less congested queue. Therefore, if the Visa Bulletin indicates that priority dates for F1 are retrogressing or remaining stagnant for a longer time, while F2B dates advance more quickly, it is possible that, in practice, F1 processing times will be longer.

Remember that these situations can change over time, and factors such as changes in immigration law, variations in case volume, and government policies influence these timelines. For this reason, it is always essential to monitor updates to the Visa Bulletin and seek information from reliable sources.

It is also advisable to seek specialized guidance, ensuring that all procedures comply with U.S. immigration laws and that fraud or miracle-sounding promises are avoided. Staying well informed and paying close attention to the current rules is the best way to understand your case progress and avoid unnecessary risks.

Follow official publications and make sure all documentation is correct, as adhering to proper legal guidance is essential for conducting a successful immigration 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.