The V non-immigrant visa is a special visa category that allows the spouse and unmarried children (under 21 years old) of lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) to join their family members in the United States while they wait for their immigrant visa petitions (Form I-130) to be processed. The V visa is designed to reduce long wait times for family members of permanent residents, allowing them to be reunited in the U.S. while their immigrant visa application is pending. To apply for a V visa, the U.S. permanent resident must first file Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to establish the relationship with their spouse or children. Once the I-130 is filed and the petition is acknowledged by USCIS, the family members can proceed with the V visa application.
Once the Form I-130 petition is approved and the applicant is eligible to apply for a V visa, the applicant will need to submit Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, and schedule an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The applicant will also need to provide documents such as a valid passport, the Form I-130 receipt notice, proof of the family relationship, and evidence that the petitioning permanent resident maintains their status. The consular officer will review the application and conduct an interview to assess the eligibility for the V visa. If approved, the applicant will be issued the V visa, allowing them to travel to the U.S.
Upon arrival in the U.S., the V visa holder can live and work in the United States while they wait for the final approval of their immigrant visa application. The V visa is typically issued for a period of up to two years, after which the holder must leave the U.S. or adjust their status if their immigrant visa becomes available. V visa holders can apply for adjustment of status by filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, when their immigrant visa priority date becomes current. This process allows the spouse or child of a U.S. permanent resident to obtain a Green Card while living in the U.S. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney for guidance on the application process to ensure all requirements are met and to help navigate the steps effectively.
