Key Takeaways:
- Learn how to add your child to your visa application after I-140 approval in the US.
- Follow specific steps, including confirming eligibility, filing forms, attending interviews, and gathering documentation.
- Consider timing, visa availability, and updating information during the process; seek assistance and stay updated.
Adding Your Child to Your Visa Application After I-140 Approval
Once you receive the great news that your I-140 petition has been approved, which is a significant step in securing employment-based permanent residence in the United States, it’s understandable that you would want to ensure your family can join you on this new journey. If you have a child, you may be wondering how to add them to your visa application. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you through the process.
Understanding Dependent Visa Process
The dependent visa process is designed to reunite families and allow them to live together in the US while the primary visa holder, like you, is working. The key term to remember is ‘derivative beneficiary’, which in immigration parlance refers to family members who can obtain their visas as a result of the primary applicant’s approved visa petition.
Steps to Follow When Adding a Child to Your Visa Application
After your I-140 is approved, consider these steps to ensure your child is included:
- Confirm Eligibility: Ascertain that your child is eligible to be added as a dependent. Typically, this means they must be unmarried and under the age of 21.
- Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing?: Determine whether you will be adjusting your status (if you are already residing in the US) or going through consular processing (if you are outside the US). This will dictate the specific process for including your child.
File the Appropriate Forms: For adjustment of status, you would file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) for your child. If you’re using consular processing, the child will be listed on your application and will go through the application steps with you, including the interview.
Gather Supporting Documentation: This typically includes the child’s birth certificate, passport, and photographs, among other items.
Attend Visa Interview and Medical Examination: If consular processing is required, your child will need to attend a visa interview and complete a medical examination by an authorized physician.
Await Visa Issuance: Once all steps are completed and if the application is successful, your child will be issued a visa allowing them to travel to the US.
Key Considerations During the Process
Timing: To avoid aging out due to reaching the age of 21, it’s important to add your child to your visa application as soon as possible after your I-140 is approved.
Immigrant Visa Availability: Ensure that a visa is available in the category for which the I-140 petition has been approved. The US Department of State’s Visa Bulletin can provide this information.
Updating Information: Alert the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the National Visa Center (NVC) if there are any changes in your circumstances or your family situation.
Resources and Assistance
Navigating immigration forms and processes can be complicated, so don’t hesitate to seek help from experts or consult official resources such as:
Remember, each case is unique, and sometimes the immigration landscape changes, so staying up-to-date and consulting with an immigration attorney is advisable for personalized guidance.
By acting carefully and swiftly, you can smoothly add your child to your visa application, ensuring a more secure and happy future for your family in the United States following your I-140 approval.
So there you have it, folks! Adding your child to your visa application after I-140 approval doesn’t have to be a headache. Just follow these steps, gather the right documents, and keep an eye on that visa bulletin. And hey, if you want more tips and info on all things visas, be sure to check out visaverge.com. It’s like having a visa expert in your back pocket. Happy visa-ing! 🚀🌎💼 Go visit visaverge.com now!
FAQ’s to know:
FAQ 1: What is the dependent visa process and who are derivative beneficiaries?
Answer: The dependent visa process aims to reunite families in the United States by allowing family members to obtain visas based on the primary applicant’s approved visa petition. Derivative beneficiaries are family members who are eligible to receive their visas as a result of the primary applicant’s approved visa petition.
FAQ 2: What steps should I follow to add my child to my visa application after my I-140 approval?
Answer: To add your child to your visa application after your I-140 approval, follow these steps:
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure that your child is unmarried and under the age of 21.
- Determine the Process: Decide whether you will adjust your status (if you are in the US) or go through consular processing (if you are outside the US).
- File the Appropriate Forms: File Form I-485 for adjustment of status or include your child on your application for consular processing.
- Gather Supporting Documentation: Collect your child’s birth certificate, passport, and other required documents.
- Attend Visa Interview and Medical Examination: If consular processing is required, your child will need to attend a visa interview and undergo a medical examination.
- Await Visa Issuance: Once the process is complete and successful, your child will receive a visa to travel to the US.
FAQ 3: What are the key considerations during the process of adding a child to a visa application?
Answer: During the process of adding a child to a visa application, consider the following:
- Timing: Add your child as soon as possible after your I-140 approval to prevent aging out when they reach 21.
- Immigrant Visa Availability: Ensure that a visa is available in the category for which your I-140 petition has been approved. Check the US Department of State’s Visa Bulletin for information.
- Updating Information: Inform the USCIS or the NVC about any changes in your circumstances or family situation. Stay updated and seek guidance from an immigration attorney for personalized assistance.
What did you learn? Answer below to know:
- What is a “derivative beneficiary” in the context of immigration? (Multiple Choice)
– a) A family member who can obtain their visas independently of the primary applicant
– b) A family member who is ineligible to obtain a visa based on the primary applicant’s petition
– c) A family member who can obtain their visas as a result of the primary applicant’s approved visa petition
– d) A family member who can only obtain a visa through a separate application process
- When should you consider adding your child to your visa application after your I-140 is approved? (Short Answer)
- What are the key documents you need to gather when adding your child to your visa application? (Multiple Choice)
– a) Medical examination records and tax documents
– b) Birth certificate, passport, and photographs
– c) Employment contract and proof of income
– d) Academic transcripts and letters of recommendation
