Updated on 30 Dec 2025
If you are living in India and want to join your brother or sister in the United States, the F4 visa might be the right choice. The F4 visa is for family members of US citizens. This blog will help you know who can apply, what documents you need, how long the process takes and how this visa is different from others.
Who is eligible for the F4 visa?
To sponsor a sibling for residency in the US, you must:
- Be a US citizen
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a valid address in the US
- Provide evidence of your sibling relationship through either a birth certificate or an adoption certificate
What documents are required for an F4 visa?
To apply for the F4 visa, you will need many documents. Make sure they are correct and updated:
- A valid passport (with 6 months' validity)
- Birth certificate (to prove your relationship)
- Marriage certificate (if your spouse is coming with you)
- Birth certificates of your children (if they are applying too)
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical examination report
- Visa application forms and photos
- Financial documents from your US-based sibling (to show they can support you)
It is very important that all documents are original. If any document is incorrect, your visa may be refused. It’s also strongly recommended to get comprehensive travel insurance before your journey. It can cover problems like flight delays, lost baggage or even passport loss.
What is the application process?
Here's how you can obtain an F4 US visa:
- The sibling who is a US citizen must complete Form I-130 with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and submit all documents on behalf of each sibling.
- Once the USCIS approves the application, it will be forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing, followed by a waiting period based on the F4 visa backlog.
- Once the final date approaches, siblings can apply for an immigrant visa, enter the US upon approval and then update their visa status accordingly.
Before booking your ticket, it’s wise to get overseas travel insurance, especially if you are travelling with family. It can cover medical costs and travel issues during your move.
If you are not sure which travel insurance to choose or what coverage you need, we can help. Fill out the form on this page to get simple advice that fits your travel needs.
How long does the F4 visa take?
The F4 visa takes a long time. Right now, the waiting time can be 17-23 years or more. It depends on how many people have already applied and your place in the queue. This is a slow process because there is a limit to how many F4 visas are given every year. So, you must be patient.
What are the benefits of the F4 visa?
Once you get the F4 visa and enter the US:
- You will become a legal permanent resident (green card holder).
- You can live and work in the US.
- You can study or start your own business.
- Your spouse and children (under 21) will also get green cards.
- After a few years, you may apply for US citizenship (if you wish).
F4 visa vs other family-based visas
There are many family visas for the US, but here is how F4 is different:
- F1 visa: For unmarried sons/daughters of US citizens
- F2A/F2B visas: For spouses and children of green card holders
- F3 visa: For married sons/daughters of US citizens
- F4 visa: Only for siblings of US citizens
F4 is the only visa that allows a brother or sister to go to the US, but it takes the longest time.
Conclusion
The F4 visa is a good option if you have a brother or sister who is a US citizen, and you want to join them. But the process is long and needs patience. Make sure your documents are ready, and you have a reliable travel insurance policy in place before moving. While the wait is long, the benefits of living and working in the US can make it worth it in the end.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.