F2A - Spouses & Minor Children of Permanent Residents
The F2A category is for spouses and unmarried children under 21 of lawful permanent residents. This subcategory typically has the shortest wait times among family preference categories.
About F2A
F2A covers the most immediate family members of green card holders: spouses and unmarried minor children (under 21). This category often has shorter wait times than other family preferences because of its priority within the F2 allocation.
Who Qualifies
- Spouses of lawful permanent residents
- Unmarried children under 21 years old of lawful permanent residents
- Must maintain qualifying relationship throughout the process
Requirements
- Permanent resident spouse/parent files Form I-130 petition
- Proof of marriage (for spouse) or birth certificate (for children)
- Proof of petitioner's permanent resident status
- Child must remain unmarried and under 21 until admission
Current Priority Dates
Latest Visa Bulletin status for F2A by country of chargeability.
All Other
22 DEC 2025
China
22 DEC 2025
India
22 DEC 2025
Mexico
22 DEC 2025
Philippines
22 DEC 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is F2A faster than other family categories?
F2A receives a larger allocation within the F2 category and represents the most immediate family relationships for permanent residents. It's often current or has short wait times for many countries.
What if my child turns 21 while waiting?
The Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) may help your child remain in F2A. The calculation subtracts the time the I-130 was pending from the child's age. If they still 'age out,' they move to F2B.
Can I upgrade to immediate relative if my spouse becomes a citizen?
Yes! If your permanent resident spouse naturalizes as a U.S. citizen, you become an immediate relative with no wait time. However, children over 21 would move to F1 category.
Is F2A usually current?
F2A is often current for most countries. However, Mexico, Philippines, and sometimes other high-demand countries may have backlogs of several months to a few years.