Experienced F2A Visa Attorneys in New York
Need Help with Your F2A Visa Application?
The F2A visa offers a vital immigration pathway that enables lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to reunite with their spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age. Unlike visas available only to U.S. citizens, the F2A category acknowledges the importance of family unity for permanent residents establishing their lives in the United States.
At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, our New York immigration attorneys assist families in navigating the F2A visa process with precision, care, and a deep understanding of U.S. immigration law. From preparing petitions to managing visa backlogs and consular processing, we guide clients through every step with clarity and compassion.
Contact us today at 646-374-3480, online, or schedule a personalized consultation on our calendar to learn more about your legal rights and options.
What is an F2A Visa?
The F2A visa is part of the Family Preference category of U.S. immigration law. It allows lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to sponsor their spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 for permanent residence in the United States.
Unlike the CR-1 visa for spouses of U.S. citizens, the F2A visa is subject to annual numerical limits, resulting in waiting periods depending on visa availability. Still, it remains one of the most efficient family-based immigration routes for green card holders to bring close relatives to the U.S.
The F2A category plays a crucial role in maintaining family unity while balancing immigration between U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Who Qualifies for an F2A Visa?
Eligibility for the F2A visa primarily depends on the petitioner’s status and the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary. The sponsoring family member must be a lawful permanent resident (not a U.S. citizen) and must demonstrate both a qualifying relationship and sufficient financial support.
To qualify for an F2A visa:
The petitioner must be a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
The relationship must involve a spouse or unmarried child under 21.
The marriage must be legally valid and recognized in the jurisdiction where it occurred.
The petitioner must file an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) proving financial ability to support the family member.
The beneficiary must be admissible to the United States (no disqualifying criminal, health, or immigration violations).
At Sharma Law Associates, our New York F2A visa attorneys thoroughly evaluate eligibility, review all supporting documentation, and address potential challenges before submitting the petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
How the F2A Visa Application Process Works
The F2A visa application process involves multiple agencies and stages. Because each step carries specific requirements and timelines, even a small error can lead to delays or denial. Our attorneys ensure that every petition is appropriately structured and supported.
Step 1: Filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
The process begins when the lawful permanent resident files Form I-130 with USCIS to establish the qualifying relationship. Supporting evidence, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and proof of residency, must be included.
Step 2: Waiting for Visa Availability
Once the petition is approved, it moves to the National Visa Center (NVC). Because the F2A category is subject to annual caps, applicants must wait until a visa number becomes available, as per the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin. In recent years, the F2A category has occasionally been current, meaning visas are immediately available—but this can change month to month.
Step 3: Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
If the beneficiary is outside the U.S., they complete consular processing through the U.S. consulate in their home country. If they are lawfully in the U.S., they may apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) once their priority date becomes current.
Step 4: Final Approval and Entry
After the interview and background checks, the visa is issued. Upon arrival in the U.S., the family member becomes a lawful permanent resident, receiving their green card shortly thereafter.
Our New York F2A visa lawyers assist at every stage—preparing evidence, managing communication with USCIS and NVC, and ensuring families are ready for interviews and next steps.
Common Challenges in F2A Visa Cases
Although the F2A visa pathway is straightforward in principle, many applicants encounter obstacles that can slow or jeopardize their case. Our New York F2A visa attorneys anticipate and address these issues early to strengthen petitions and prevent setbacks.
Frequent challenges include:
Long wait times due to visa retrogression.
Incomplete or inconsistent documentation.
Proof of relationship concerns (especially in cases involving minimal joint evidence).
Income levels below the Affidavit of Support threshold.
Previous immigration violations or inadmissibility concerns.
Delays caused by administrative processing or consular backlogs.
Our team takes a strategic, evidence-driven approach, ensuring your petition is presented with clarity and compliance from the start.
How to Maintain Status After Entering on an F2A Visa
Once the spouse or child enters the U.S. under the F2A category, they receive lawful permanent resident (green card) status. This allows them to live, work, and study in the United States. However, they must continue to comply with immigration laws and maintain residency.
To maintain status:
Avoid extended stays outside the U.S. (typically more than 6 months).
File for Removal of Conditions if applicable (for marriages under 2 years old at approval).
Renew green cards as required.
Apply for naturalization when eligible (typically after 5 years as an LPR).
Our F2A visa attorneys in New York provide ongoing guidance to ensure your family remains compliant and positioned for future immigration goals.
Why Hire a New York F2A Visa Attorney?
Applying for an F2A visa without professional support can lead to unnecessary delays or denials. Working with an experienced New York F2A visa lawyer ensures that your case is handled efficiently, accurately, and with a deep understanding of current USCIS and consular practices.
At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, we:
Review eligibility and build a strong foundation for your petition.
Prepare accurate forms and evidence for USCIS and NVC submission.
Anticipate potential complications and respond effectively to any requests for evidence (RFEs).
Provide interview preparation and long-term immigration planning for your family.
Our attorneys combine legal precision with genuine care, guiding families through every stage of the immigration journey.
Speak With Our New York F2A Visa Lawyer Today
Family reunification is at the heart of the F2A visa program—and at the heart of our work at Sharma Law Associates, LLC. Whether you’re beginning your petition, waiting for a visa number, or preparing for consular processing, our team is ready to help.
Call us today at 646-374-3480, contact us online, or schedule a personalized consultation on our calendar to speak with an experienced F2A visa attorney in New York and take the next step toward bringing your loved ones home.