Category Children of U.S. Citizens

As a U.S. citizen, you have the privilege of petitioning for your children to live permanently in the United States. However, the legal path differs significantly depending on your child’s age and marital status. Unmarried children under 21 are classified as ‘Immediate Relatives’ (IR-2) with no annual visa caps, allowing for a faster process. Conversely, children over 21 (F1) or married children of any age (F3) fall into ‘Preference Categories’ subject to Visa Bulletin waiting periods.

In this category, CLINCH LAW FIRM clarifies these critical distinctions. We provide expert strategy on filing Form I-130, handling Consular Processing, and navigating the complex Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) to prevent your child from ‘aging out’ of eligibility. Whether you are sponsoring a minor child, an adult son or daughter, or a step-child, we help you avoid costly errors that could delay your family reunification.