US Family Visas allow Pakistani citizens to reunite with their loved ones in the United States and live together legally. Whether you wish to join your spouse, children, parents, or fiancé(e) in the US, the proper visa category ensures lawful entry and the ability to pursue long-term residency.
The modern US immigration framework provides multiple visa pathways depending on family relationship, sponsor status (US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident), age of the applicant, and immigration intent.
Below you will find a complete guide designed for Pakistani applicants, covering visa types, eligibility, documentation, financial requirements, application process, timelines, interview details, appeals, and common rejection reasons.
What are the Types of US Family Visas for Pakistani Citizens
US family visas fall into four main categories:
1. Immediate Relative (IR) Visas
Immediate Relative visas allow certain close relatives of US citizens to immigrate without annual numerical limits. These are preferred due to shorter processing times.
The main IR visa types are:
- IR-1: Spouse of a US citizen
- IR-2: Unmarried child under 21 of a US citizen
- IR-3: Orphan adopted abroad by a US citizen
- IR-4: Orphan to be adopted in the US by a US citizen
- IR-5: Parent of a US citizen who is at least 21
Key Entity Information:
- Requires Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- Processed through USCIS → NVC → Embassy/Consulate
2. Family Preference (F) Visas
These visas cover extended family relationships and are subject to annual caps, resulting in longer waiting times.
Visa categories include:
- F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (21+ years) of US citizens
- F2A: Spouses and minor children (under 21) of US Lawful Permanent Residents
- F2B: Unmarried adult children (21+) of US Lawful Permanent Residents
- F3: Married sons and daughters of US citizens
- F4: Siblings of US citizens (aged 21+)
Due to limits, applicants should check the US Visa Bulletin regularly.
3. K-Visas (Fiancé(e) and Spousal Visas)
K-Visas allow temporary entry to reunite with a US citizen fiancé(e) or spouse while immigration processing continues.
Types include:
- K-1: Fiancé(e) of a US citizen (marriage must occur within 90 days of entry)
- K-2: Children of K-1 visa holders
- K-3: Spouse of a US citizen awaiting an immigrant visa
- K-4: Children of K-3 visa holders
Entities & Requirements:
- Notice of Action (I-797)
- Marriage within 90 days (for K-1)
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
4. Conditional Resident (CR) Visas
Used when marriage to a US citizen is less than two years old at the time of visa approval.
Types:
- CR-1: Conditional spouse
- CR-2: Conditional child
Conditions are removed after 2 years by filing Form I-751.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for US Family Visas
Pakistani applicants must:
- Have a qualifying family relationship
- Hold a valid Pakistani passport
- Be sponsored by a US citizen or permanent resident
- Demonstrate financial support through Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
- Show no disqualifying criminal or immigration violations
- Pass a medical exam at a panel physician approved by the US Embassy in Islamabad
- Attend an interview if required
Additional requirements may apply depending on visa category.
What Documents Are Required for Pakistani Applicants?
Documentation typically includes:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- NADRA-issued documents
- Marriage certificate (Nikah Nama + English translation)
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical examination results (US-approved facility)
- Form I-864 Affidavit of Support
- Proof of relationship (photos, communication, joint accounts, etc.)
- DS-260 confirmation page
What is Form I-130?
Form I-130 is the Petition for Alien Relative filed by the sponsor in the US. It establishes the relationship and initiates the immigration process.
What is the DS-260 Application Form?
DS-260 is the Immigrant Visa Electronic Application completed after USCIS approval. It is processed by the National Visa Center (NVC).
How to Apply for a US Family Visa (Step-by-Step Process)
- Sponsor files Form I-130 with USCIS
- USCIS review & approval → case forwarded to NVC
- NVC assigns case number
- Pay processing fees
- Submit DS-260 + civil documents
- Upload financial evidence
- Complete medical examination
- Attend US Embassy interview in Islamabad
- Passport submitted for visa stamping
- Receive visa packet
- Travel to the United States
- Pay USCIS immigrant fee
- Receive Green Card
When Should You Apply?
Apply immediately after receiving Form I-130 approval and NVC notification.
What Are the US Family Visa Costs?
Typical fees include:
- USCIS Form I-130 filing fee
- DS-260 fee
- Medical exam fee
- Biometrics
- USCIS immigrant fee (after visa approval)
Costs vary; check official government schedules.
What Questions Are Asked During the Interview?
Conducted at the US Embassy in Islamabad or the Consulate in Karachi, Islamabad. Questions typically cover:
- Relationship history
- Sponsor’s details
- Applicant’s background
- Financial plans
- Intent to reside in the US
What Are the Processing Times?
Approximate timelines:
- Immediate Relative Visas: 8–12 months
- Family Preference Visas: 12–36 months+
- K-Visas: 7–10 months
- CR-Visas: 13–36 months depending on sponsor status
What Are the Reasons for US Family Visa Rejection?
Common reasons include:
- Incomplete documentation
- Weak evidence of relationship
- Past immigration violations
- Incorrect financial documentation
- Inadmissibility due to criminal record
Applicants may seek:
- Reapplication
- Waiver
- Legal guidance
How Can Go Foreign Help?
Go Foreign makes the US immigration process easier. Our consultants guide Pakistani applicants with forms, documents, and interview prep, helping you bring your family to the US smoothly. Start your new chapter with trusted support every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in the US on a family visa?
Yes, lawful permanent residents can work without restrictions.
Can children accompany me?
Yes, eligible children may receive derivative visas depending on visa type.
Can I study in the US?
Yes, family visa holders may study without requiring an F-1 visa.
Is an interview mandatory?
Usually yes, except in certain waived circumstances.
How long can I stay in the US?
Family visas allow long-term or permanent residency, depending on the category.
