IR-2 visa is a type of immigrant visa issued by the United States for the children of U.S. citizens. The specific procedures and requirements for obtaining an IR-2 visa may change, so it’s essential to check the latest information on the official U.S. Department of State website or consult with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.
However, as a general guideline, here are the typical steps involved in obtaining an IR-2 visa:
- Petition Filing:
- The U.S. citizen parent must file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form is used to establish the qualifying relationship between the U.S. citizen parent and the child.
- USCIS Approval:
- After the petition is approved, USCIS will send the approved Form I-130 to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will then assign a case number and forward the petition to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where the child resides.
- Case Processing by the U.S. Embassy/Consulate:
- The U.S. Embassy or Consulate will notify the petitioner and the beneficiary (the child) when the case is received and provide instructions on how to proceed. This may involve submitting additional documents, completing visa application forms, and paying fees.
- Medical Examination:
- The child will need to undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician. The results of this examination are usually submitted directly to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Interview:
- The child and, if applicable, the U.S. citizen petitioner, will need to attend an immigrant visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. During the interview, the consular officer will assess the eligibility for the visa.
- Visa Issuance:
- If approved, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate will issue the IR-2 immigrant visa to the child. The child can then travel to the United States.
- Travel to the United States:
- Once the child arrives in the United States, they will become a U.S. permanent resident.
It’s crucial to note that immigration processes are subject to change, and the information provided here may not reflect the latest updates. Therefore, it’s strongly recommended to consult the official U.S. Department of State website or contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for the most current and accurate information regarding the IR-2 visa application process.
IR-2 visa checklist of documents
The specific document requirements for an IR-2 visa may vary slightly depending on individual circumstances and the U.S. Embassy or Consulate processing the visa application. However, here is a general checklist of documents that are commonly required for an IR-2 visa application:
- Form DS-260:
- Complete and submit the online Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application.
- Form I-130 Approval Notice:
- Provide a copy of the USCIS approval notice for Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.
- Passport:
- A valid passport for the child, with at least six months of validity beyond the intended date of entry into the United States.
- Photographs:
- Passport-sized photographs of the child that meet the U.S. visa photo requirements.
- Birth Certificate:
- Original or certified copy of the child’s birth certificate.
- Marriage Certificate:
- If applicable, provide the marriage certificate of the U.S. citizen parent.
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864):
- The U.S. citizen petitioner (sponsor) must submit a completed and signed Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. This form demonstrates the sponsor’s ability to financially support the immigrant.
- Financial Documents:
- Attach supporting financial documents, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, and recent pay stubs, to demonstrate the petitioner’s income and financial stability.
- Police Clearance Certificate:
- Obtain a police clearance certificate or equivalent document from the child’s country of residence, if required.
- Medical Examination Report:
- The child must undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician. The results of the examination will be sent directly to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Visa Fees:
- Pay the required visa application and processing fees.
- Appointment Letter:
- Bring a copy of the appointment letter received from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, confirming the interview date.
- Proof of Relationship:
- Provide evidence of the parent-child relationship, such as family photos, correspondence, or other supporting documents.
It’s important to note that the above checklist is a general guide, and applicants should check the specific requirements of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where they are applying for the IR-2 visa. Additionally, requirements may change, so it’s advisable to consult the embassy’s website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.