F3 Visa for Nigerians

The F3 Visa (also called a Family Based Green Card) is for the married children of U.S. citizens who want to live and work in the United States permanently. The F3 Visa also permits the dependants of the U.S. citizen’s child to join them in the U.S.

IAS offers professional immigration advice and we can help determine your F3 Visa eligibility. Contact the IAS adviser online by calling +2342013306361 in Nigeria or +44 (0) 3316300929 in the U.S. to receive personal help with your case.

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Benefits of Choosing IAS‘ USA Immigration Lawyers

When it comes to obtaining a USA visa or permit, IAS USA immigration lawyers are well-equipped to help you.

With IAS’s track record of successfully helping clients visit or immigrate to the United States, we can help businesses and individuals achieve their goals.

Our dedicated immigration lawyers provide our services through a comprehensive and personalised approach. With IAS, you enjoy:

Compassionate support from an experienced immigration lawyer dedicated to your success

Support in gathering supporting documents and completing a high-quality application.

Confidence that your case is being handled by an experienced team.

In-house document checks done by lawyers who are well-versed in US immigration matters.

Services we Provide

Want to Join Your Family in the U.S.?

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For Nigerian emigration matters, please call +2342013306361 or +44 (0) 3316300929

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For immigration/emigration to/from other countries, please call:

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Overview of the F3 Visa in the U.S.

F3 Visa is one of four types of Family Preference Immigrant Visas designed to reunite families by allowing the U.S. citizen’s married children and their dependants to come and live in the U.S. F3 Visa is only for children over the age of 21 who can prove that they are married.

If you qualify for the F3 Visa, you will be permitted to bring your spouse and minor children to the U.S. with you, provided that they apply for their F3 Visa. The qualifying dependants of the F3 applicants are spouses and minor children under the age of 21.

Obtaining the F3 Visa allows you to work legally in the U.S. without applying for the Employment Authorisation Document (EAD). F3 applicants can also study in the U.S., travel abroad and re-enter the U.S. anytime without restrictions.

Who is Eligible for the F3 Visa?

F3 Visa is only for married children of U.S. citizens. To qualify, you must prove that you are:

A child of someone who holds a U.S. citizen status
Over 21 years of age
Legally married

Your sponsor is the U.S. citizen through which you apply for an F3 Visa. The eligible sponsor must live in the U.S. and prove the relationship with the F3 applicant with adequate supporting documentation.

Relationship Requirement for the F3 Visa

F3 Visas are only granted to U.S. citizens who meet the relationship requirement. They must prove that they have married children in a foreign country. The relationship between the U.S. citizen and their child must be demonstrated with a document such as a birth certificate or adoption document.

How to Apply for the F3 Visa?

The application process for the F3 Visa is considered to be very long and involves different stages. Before you can apply for the F3 Visa, the U.S. citizen (sponsor) must file a petition for you to come to the U.S. The F3 Visa application can only begin once the petition is approved and once the spot for a visa application opens.

Filing the Petition for Alien Relative

The U.S. sponsor must first file a petition for alien relative (form I-130) and pay a fee to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to be allowed to bring their married child and their dependants to the U.S. The U.S. sponsor can also file an immigrant visa petition for their spouse, children, parents or siblings. However, the F3 Visa is specifically for the married children of the U.S. sponsor. Other relatives should apply for a different visa.

Once the USCIS approves the petition, they will send the application to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will send the F3 applicant a Visa application package with detailed step-by-step instructions for the application.

If the petition gets rejected, the USCIS will notify the U.S. sponsor of the reasons for the rejection. The petition can then be re-submitted according to the necessary changes requested by the USCIS.

Documents Required for the Petition Filing Stage for an F3 Visa

Along with the petition, the U.S. sponsor will be required to provide the following evidence:

Evidence of U.S. citizenship
A copy of their child’s birth certificate
Proof of legal name change (if applicable)
2 passport-style photographs (if applicable)

If the U.S. sponsor is filing the petition for their adopted child, they must provide the following evidence instead of a birth certificate:

A copy of the adoption decree showing the adoption took place before the child turned 16
Proof you have had legal custody of the adopted child for 2 years
Evidence you have lived with the adopted child for 2 years

The F3 Visa Application

Once you receive your visa application package from the NVC, you will get notified when the spot for your visa application opens. You can then begin the visa application process. You must visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Nigeria to complete your application. The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria is in Abuja, and the U.S. Consulate is in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Filing the Form DS-260

The U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country will request you to file the form DS-260. It is a type of Immigrant Visa Electronic Application which has to be completed by the F3 applicant and each of their dependents. The DS-260 form asks about your background information and reasons for your immigration to the U.S. Each dependant has to file a separate form.

After submitting the form, you will be provided with a confirmation page and number. This will have to be then sent to the NVC along with your other supporting documents for your visa.

Medical Examination and Vaccination for an F3 Visa

A medical examination and vaccinations are a part of the F3 Visa application process designed for anyone planning to enter the U.S. Each F3 applicant must complete necessary check-ups and have certain vaccinations before immigrating to the U.S.

The instructions on what medical tests and vaccination are required to be completed will be provided to you in the visa application package from the NVC.

To prove that you have undergone the required medical examination, you must demonstrate a document signed by a licensed doctor, which you will then submit as a supporting document for your visa application.

Documents Required for the F3 Visa Application Process

To show that you are eligible for the F3 Visa and that you meet the required criteria, you must provide the following supporting documents:

Valid passport for you and any dependants who are applying for an F3 Visa to come to the U.S. with you
Two U.S. visa photographs for each applicant (note that the photographs are required to fulfil the visa requirements)
A signed form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) from the U.S. sponsor – to demonstrate that they have the adequate means of financial support to support you and (if applicable) your dependants in the U.S.
Birth certificate or adoption decree to show your relationship with the sponsor parent
Medical examination and vaccination documents to prove you have completed the necessary medical checks
Your valid marriage certificate to prove that you are legally married
Divorce certificate or death certificate if you have been previously married
Criminal records and court records (if any)
Military records if you served in the military

Assembling all the supporting documents for your visa application can be complicated. If you are still determining what evidence you should provide for your F3 Visa to the U.S. IAS is here to help.

IAS can help you determine your eligibility and advise on the documents you should prepare for your application. Our immigration advisers understand that applying for a visa can be challenging and stressful, preventing you from joining your family in the U.S. We offer services to help make this process hassle-free.

Contact IAS today to receive professional assistance with your visa application. Call +2342013306361 in Nigeria, or +44 (0) 3316300929, or reach out to one of our lawyers online to find out how we can help your case.

Attending Visa Interview

Once you submit the required supporting documents for your F3 Visa, the NVC will schedule a Visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Nigeria. You must attend the interview with any dependants applying for the F3 Visa with you.

The purpose of the Visa interview is the final stage of the application process, which should determine whether you are eligible for the F3 Visa.

Our experts will assess your situation and provide tailored advice based on your family’s circumstances.

Processing Time for the F3 Visa Application in the U.S.

The F3 Visa in the U.S. is one of the most preferred visas. As a result, only 23,400 F3 Visas are issued each year to avoid extreme delays. Therefore, the F3 Visa USA waiting time is likely to be long and can vary from 1 year up to 10 years in severe cases.

Cost of the F3 Visa Application Process

The F3 Visa application process cost involves fees paid by the U.S. sponsor and the F3 applicant. The overall cost is based on the following fees:

Form I-130 – $535
Form DS-260 – $325
USCIS Immigration Fee (paid after you receive your visa and before you travel to the U.S.) – $220
Fees for medical examinations and vaccines will vary depending on individual cases

Our team of seasoned immigration experts is here to guide you every step of the way.

How Can IAS Help?

IAS offers F3 Visa Assistance Packages created to suit individuals looking to come to the U.S. on an F3 Visa. Our team of qualified immigration lawyers with expertise in assisting even the most complex cases can help maximise visa approval chances.

Whether your visa has been previously refused or you are simply unsure where to start your application process, IAS can discuss your case and help you decide on next steps.

For IAS F3 Visa assistance services in Nigeria, call +2342013306361. If in the U.S., contact us +44 (0) 3316300929 or online.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at our Lagos office, all of our UK offices, or via the phone.

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Written by Immigration Advice Service

Editorial Team

This content was developed by a team of researchers, editors, and lawyers who provide valuable information to those with immigration queries.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, the law may change, and the information may not reflect the most current legal developments. No warranty is given regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information, and we do not accept liability in such cases. We recommend consulting with a qualified lawyer at Immigration Advice Service before making any decisions based on the content provided.

Frequently Asked Questions

If your visa is approved, you and your dependents can legally work in the U.S. without restrictions. You can work in the U.S. without having to apply for an Employment Authorisation Document (EAD).

Once you are admitted to enter the U.S. on an F3 Visa, you become a Permanent Resident. Permanent Residents have the right to apply for U.S. citizenship and receive new rights and privileges, provided that they have maintained continuous residence as permanent residents.

Yes, you need a U.S. sponsor for the F3 Visa. Your sponsor is the key to the F3 Visa. You cannot apply for an F3 Visa without a sponsor, as the petition filed by the sponsor begins the application process.

If you want to predict when you are likely to get a visa priority date allowing you to apply for the F3 Visa, you can use one of the F3 Visa Prediction Calculators available online or reach out to IAS.

What our clients are saying

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I did my Spouse Visa Application inside the UK with the help of IAS and my case worker was Abdul Mutee who helped me throughout the process from documentation to the application and finally after the application I got a positive response from the home office.

Nesrine Shalabi

2 days ago

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Nicholas Peasgood

1 week ago

Very positive professional experience. My immigration advisor Mariam Adebayo helped my wife successfully obtain her Spouse visa extension. At the very start we had a face to face meeting at their Oldham office to discuss our needs, explain the process and what evidence we would need. We later received a written confirmation of advice laying out everything from timeframes, fees and documentation needed. Through out we had video calls and regular emails for updates and when our input was needed, Mariam even uploaded all of the extensive evidence as part of the application process which I was very happy with as I know from my own experience this can take a while. I would definitely use IAS again, don't be fooled in to opting for cheaper options, I came to IAS after a poor experience with a different company and so came back as I'd had a good experience with IAS way back in the 90's so know that they have been around for a years. Thank you IAS Oldham and Mariam Adebayo.

Fatima Babar

1 week ago

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Abdul Mutee for everything he has done throughout my visa process. The past year was incredibly stressful, especially after facing two Canada visa refusals. During this difficult time, Abdul Mutee did not simply provide guidance; he actively worked on my case and supported me every step of the way when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about my future. Thanks to his dedication, hard work, and continuous support, my UK visa has now been approved. This approval allows me to continue my education and pursue my dream of becoming a dentist. I truly believe that this achievement would not have been possible without his assistance and commitment. Abdul Mutee played a significant role in making this outcome possible, and I am deeply thankful for the relief, hope, and opportunity he has given me. His efforts have made a lasting impact on my life, and I will always be grateful for everything he has done. I will never forget the support, encouragement, and professionalism he showed throughout this journey. Abdul Mutee's help has made a real difference in my future, and I sincerely appreciate all of his hard work and dedication.

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1 week ago

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1 week ago

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1 week ago

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Claudia T

2 weeks ago

I used IAS for my first visa and I must say it wasn't a pleasant experience. We didn't receive all the information, we would find out about things along the way and it made it all very stressful even though the application was successful. We were a bit reluctant to do it again for the renewal but went for it anyway due to lack of time. Anne Liu was out caseworker and she was terrific! Super on top of the case! She would review the docs very quickly after we submitted it and would immediately tell us what would be missing. She made herself available when we needed her all the way up to the appointment. Definitely made the experience more stress free!

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Alice Jackson

2 weeks ago

Anne has been nothing short of exceptional throughout mine and my husbands immigration query. From the very start, she was informative, diligent, understanding, compassionate and helpful. Any immigration matter is delicate and stressful for those involved and Anne met us with patience and kindness throughout, keeping us well informed and calm when everything felt tricky. We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better advisor and we are so grateful for everything that she did for us to get my husbands spousal visa approved. Her dedication and commitment proved enormously valuable and I will be welcoming my husband home tomorrow because of her. Without a doubt we will use her again in 2029 when required and we cannot recommend her enough for anyone going through a similar matter. Thank you Anne, from the bottom of our hearts, we will always appreciate you and remember your engagement fondly.

Roger Hall

2 weeks ago

Everybody at IAS has been professional and helpful. In particular my case worker, Elena Ampova simply could not have been more patient, friendly and approachable and knowledgeable. Nina and I found it difficult to supply information in the file formats required and Elena spent hours helping us. And the end result has been that my fiancée, Nina's visa application has been approved. Perfect service and a perfect result.

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2 weeks ago

Dina's explanations were clear and she took time to make sure we understood. The only small worry we now have is that there may be hidden fees which were not specified. However, I'm just checking that through an email.

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3 weeks ago

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3 weeks ago

I have had amazing results in a short period of time with Lauren Blommel at Immigration Advice Services. She was very professional and supportive every step of the way, always answering my questions and addressing my concerns quickly. I am very happy with the service I received and would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for immigration assistance.

Lili Ayele

3 weeks ago

I am extremely grateful for the excellent support and professional service I received from Immigration Advice Service, especially from my caseworker, Lauren Blommel. Lauren supported me throughout my asylum case and kept me informed and reassured during what was a very difficult and stressful process. Thanks to her professionalism, dedication, patience, and hard work, my case was handled with great care and I successfully received my refugee status. I truly appreciate everything Lauren has done for me and all the support she provided from beginning to end. I highly recommend Immigration Advice Service to anyone who needs immigration support. Thank you so much, Lauren, for your outstanding service and for helping me through such an important journey in my life. I will always be grateful.

Othman Khunji

3 weeks ago

I cannot recommend Mariam Adebayo at IAS highly enough. She supported me thoroughly from A–Z throughout my UK Global Talent Visa journey, ultimately helping me successfully obtain my visa through the Exceptional Talent route. From the very beginning, Mariam was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, patient, and attentive. She guided me through every stage of the process with clarity and reassurance, always making sure that my application was as strong and comprehensive as possible. What stood out most was how consistently she went above and beyond her dedication, responsiveness, and genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for me were evident throughout the entire journey. Thanks to Mariam’s exceptional support and hard work, I now have the incredible opportunity to continue developing and practicing my talent in the UK. This is a truly significant milestone in my professional and creative journey, and I am extremely grateful for the role she played in making it possible. Mariam is an outstanding caseworker and a true asset to IAS. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking immigration support, particularly those applying through the UK Global Talent route. Thank you, Mariam, for your dedication, guidance, and for helping turn this opportunity into a reality.

Roy Williams

3 weeks ago

Re: Kurshida Begum My wife and I cannot thank our immigration lawyer, Kurshida Begum enough for the professional help and support she gave us to obtain a successful outcome to my wife’s application for her extension visa. I would have no hesitation in recommending her services to anyone seeking help on immigration matters.

Scott Graham

3 weeks ago

Daniel Lugo Pino

3 weeks ago

Saima Maqsood was super helpful in my father's visitor visa application. Very communicative and supportive - we had low odds of a favourable outcome and yet with her guidance we were able to succeed.

Virginie

4 weeks ago

I had a good exchange with Saima Jabeen, she helped me and it was useful.

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