The IR-2 child visa allows U.S. citizens to bring their unmarried children under 21 to live permanently in the United States. If you’re petitioning for your child, working with an experienced immigration attorney can help avoid delays, denials, and costly mistakes.
Talk to our immigration lawyer today to see if your child qualifies for an IR-2 visa at (213) 375-4084 .
What Is an IR-2 Child Visa?
The IR-2 visa is an immigrant visa for the biological, adopted, or stepchildren of U.S. citizens. Unlike family preference visas, IR-2 visas are not subject to annual caps, which means there is no visa backlog for eligible applicants.
Once approved, the child becomes a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) upon entering the U.S.
Who Qualifies for an IR-2 Visa?
A child may qualify for an IR-2 visa if:
- The sponsoring parent is a U.S. citizen
- The child is unmarried and under 21
- A valid parent-child relationship exists
- The child resides outside the United States
Special rules apply for stepchildren and adopted children, including timing and custody requirements.
IR-2 Visa vs. Other Child Visas
Understanding the difference between the IR-2 visa and other child visa is very important. Here are the child visas and their differences:
- IR-2 visa: Child of a U.S. citizen (no waiting list)
- F-2A visa: Child of a green card holder (subject to backlogs)
- K-2 visa: Child of a K-1 fiancé(e) visa holder
Choosing the wrong category can significantly delay your child’s immigration process.
How the IR-2 Visa Process Works
While every case is different, the process generally includes:
- Filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- National Visa Center (NVC) processing
- Medical exam and interview at a U.S. consulate
- Child enters the U.S. as a permanent resident
Mistakes at any step can cause delays or denials. That’s why it’s important to consult with one of our IR-2 visa attorneys at (213) 375-4084 before filing your petition.
Common IR-2 Visa Challenges
Families often run into issues with:
- Proving the parent-child relationship
- Adoption or stepchild eligibility requirements
- Missing or incorrect documentation
- Child turning 21 during processing
Our immigration attorney can help prevent these problems before they occur.
Why Work With an Immigration Lawyer for an IR-2 Visa?
Our experienced immigration lawyer can:
- Confirm your child’s eligibility
- Prepare and file forms correctly
- Address adoption or stepchild complications
- Respond to USCIS or consular requests
- Reduce delays and risk of denial
This is especially important when children are close to aging out or have complex family situations.
Speak With an IR-2 Visa Attorney Today
If you’re trying to bring your child to the United States, getting the process right the first time matters.
Contact our immigration law office today to discuss your IR-2 child visa case and next steps by calling (213) 375-4084.
IR-2 Visa Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the IR-2 visa take?
Usually around 12 months. Processing times vary, but IR-2 visas generally move faster than preference visas since there is no annual cap.
Does my child get a green card automatically?
Yes. Once admitted to the U.S. on an IR-2 visa, the child becomes a lawful permanent resident.
Can my child become a U.S. citizen?
In many cases, children automatically acquire U.S. citizenship after entering the U.S. and residing with their U.S. citizen parent, if legal requirements are met. This is due to the Child Citizenship Act (CCA).
