An F-22 classification pertains to a specific category within U.S. immigration law, designating children of lawful permanent residents who are seeking to immigrate to the United States as "new arrivals."
This classification falls under the broader Family-Sponsored Preferences, specifically within the F2 (Family Second Preference) category, which is dedicated to certain family members of lawful permanent residents (LPRs), also known as green card holders. The F2 category is further subdivided to distinguish between different types of family relationships and the manner of immigration (whether applying from outside the U.S. or adjusting status from within).
Understanding the F2 Immigrant Classification
The F2 preference category is reserved for specific family members of green card holders. These immigrant classifications allow a lawful permanent resident to sponsor their close relatives for immigration to the United States.
F-22 Specifics and Related Classifications
The F-22 classification is specifically for children of alien residents who are new arrivals. This means they are typically applying for their immigrant visa from outside the United States. It is important to distinguish this from other related F2 classifications:
- Children of Alien Residents: This generally refers to unmarried children, including both minor children (under 21) and unmarried adult children, depending on the specific subclass within F2. The F-22 designation specifically targets this group.
- Subject to Country Limits: Like most family-sponsored preference categories, all F2 classifications are subject to annual numerical limitations and per-country caps. This can lead to varying wait times based on the applicant's country of origin and the overall demand.
- New Arrivals vs. Adjustments:
- New arrivals (like F-22) refers to individuals who complete their immigration process by obtaining an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad before entering the U.S. as lawful permanent residents.
- Adjustments (like F-27) refers to individuals who are already present in the U.S. and apply to change their status to lawful permanent resident without needing to leave the country.
Here is a breakdown of common F2-related immigrant classes of admission:
| Immigrant Class | Description |
|---|---|
| F21 | Spouses of alien residents, subject to country limits, new arrivals |
| F22 | Children of alien residents, subject to country limits, new arrivals |
| F27 | Children of alien residents, subject to country limits, adjustments |
| B22 | Children of alien residents, subject to country limits, new arrivals, self petitioning |
Practical Insights
- The F-22 classification enables children of current green card holders to obtain their own green card, typically through an immigrant petition filed on their behalf by their parent.
- The "new arrivals" aspect means the final step of the green card process for F-22 beneficiaries involves an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country, followed by entry into the U.S. as a permanent resident.
- The inclusion of B22 highlights that, in specific and often complex circumstances, certain children of alien residents might be able to self-petition for their immigration, which is distinct from a parent-sponsored petition.
