Is it true that F4 can take up to 20 years?

The F4 visa program, intended for siblings of U.S. citizens, is known for having quite long waiting times, especially for people from countries with high demand such as Mexico and the Philippines. It is important to start by understanding that the F4 queue is limited by annual quotas and, as a result, wait times can vary considerably depending on the applicant’s country of origin and the priority dynamics.

In the current scenario, there are situations where wait times can reach up to 20 years. This duration depends on several factors, such as the number of applications, the rules for visa priority dates, and occasional retrogressions that occur periodically. Therefore, in some cases, yes, there are reports of people who may wait this long before their visa process is completed.

However, it is crucial to remember that the timeline for immigration processes may change with amendments in U.S. immigration policies and laws. Given this reality, it is always recommended to follow updates through official channels, such as the U.S. Department of State, and seek information from reliable sources before making any decisions.

It is also important to emphasize the need to strictly follow immigration laws and be cautious with companies or marketing campaigns that promise fast or guaranteed results, as these can represent significant risks and even scams. Staying well informed and acting responsibly is essential to navigate this complex process.

If doubts arise about deadlines or procedures, consulting official and specialized sources can help clarify the next steps in a safe and appropriate manner.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.