My F4 petition has been approved by USCIS. How long until the NVC contacts me?

The steps of the immigration process can seem complex, but understanding a little about the path your case takes can help reduce anxiety. In the case of the F4 category – which involves siblings of U.S. citizens – after the petition is approved by USCIS, the next step is the transfer of the case to the National Visa Center (NVC). This institution is responsible for guiding the applicant on submitting the necessary documents and scheduling the interview at the consulate or embassy.

Generally, after approval by USCIS, the NVC usually receives the case within a period that can vary between three to six months. However, it is worth emphasizing that this period may change according to various factors, such as the volume of cases being processed and the specificities of each situation.

Moreover, it is important to remember that, for categories like F4, the priority of your case – reflected in the filing date – needs to be current according to the Department of State”s Visa Bulletin before the NVC can proceed with the next steps of the consular process.

Regardless of the waiting time, it is essential to regularly monitor the progress of the process through the official channels of the U.S. authorities and the NVC. This way, you can stay informed about any updates or additional requirements, avoiding unpleasant surprises.

It is always important to follow the United States immigration laws and seek reliable information to avoid falling victim to scams or marketing campaigns promising quick and miraculous solutions.

Finally, although it is natural to want an exact prediction, each case is unique and subject to various external factors. Stay in touch with official guidance and be attentive to updates published by the competent authorities. In doing so, you prepare better for each stage of your process, respecting the rules and procedures established by the immigration authorities.

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.