Bringing Children Under 21 to the U.S. in 2025: Everything You Need to Know
One of the most heartwarming aspects of U.S. immigration law is its support for family reunification. If you are a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you may be wondering: What’s the process for bringing children under 21 to the U.S. in 2025?
In 2025, several changes in immigration policies and improved processing technologies have made it a bit easier—but still complex—for families to reunite. This guide will walk you through the types of visas available, step-by-step processes, current timelines, and common pitfalls to avoid when bringing your child to the United States.
Immigration Options for Children Under 21
When it comes to bringing children to the U.S., the eligibility path depends on the parent’s status:
1. U.S. Citizen Parent
- Unmarried children under 21 qualify as immediate relatives (no annual cap on visas).
- Can apply for an IR-2 visa or adjustment of status if the child is already in the U.S.
2. Green Card Holder (Permanent Resident) Parent
- Children under 21 qualify under the F2A visa category (subject to Visa Bulletin availability, but typically “current” in 2025).
How to Bring Children Under 21 to the U.S. in 2025
Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- Purpose: Establish a valid parent-child relationship.
- Where: File with USCIS either online or via mail.
- Key Documents Needed:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or green card (for the parent)
- Proof of parentage (legal custody documents if needed)
Timeline:
- U.S. citizens: 10–14 months
- Green card holders: 16–24 months
Step 2: Check Visa Availability (For Green Card Holders)
If you are a green card holder, check the Visa Bulletin every month:
- Good news in 2025: F2A category (spouses and minor children) is mostly current.
- No major wait times expected for most countries.
Step 3: Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
Depending on whether your child is abroad or already in the U.S.:
If Child is Abroad (Consular Processing):
- After I-130 approval, the case goes to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- Submit additional forms, including:
- DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application)
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
- Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Timeline for NVC and embassy processing:
2–6 months after I-130 approval.
If Child is in the U.S. (Adjustment of Status):
- File Form I-485 (Application for Green Card) after I-130 approval (or concurrently for U.S. citizens).
- Attend a biometrics appointment and a green card interview if required.
Timeline:
- 8–14 months for green card approval inside the U.S.
Processing Times for Bringing Children Under 21 in 2025
| Status of Parent | Approximate Total Time |
|---|---|
| U.S. Citizen | 14–20 months |
| Green Card Holder | 18–28 months |
Tip: Always track the case through USCIS Case Status Online and the NVC portal for faster updates.
Key Requirements for Children Under 21
To qualify under U.S. immigration law:
- The child must be under 21 years of age at the time of immigration or adjustment.
- The child must be unmarried.
- Must have a biological, adopted, or stepchild relationship with the petitioning parent.
Special Note:
- If the child turns 21 during processing, they may still qualify under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) to remain classified as a child.
Documents Required for Child Immigration in 2025
✅ Child’s valid passport
✅ Birth certificate showing the parental relationship
✅ Parent’s proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent resident card
✅ Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
✅ Medical examination (Form I-693 for adjustment of status)
Important: All foreign-language documents must be accompanied by certified English translations.
Costs Involved in Bringing a Child to the U.S.
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Form I-130 filing fee | $675 |
| DS-260 immigrant visa fee | $325 |
| Medical examination | $150–$500 |
| Form I-485 (if inside U.S.) | $1,440 |
| Affidavit of Support fee (NVC) | $120 |
Total Estimated Cost: $1,000–$2,000
(depends if processing abroad or within the U.S.)
Common Reasons for Delays
Understanding potential pitfalls can save months of waiting:
- Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
- Request for Evidence (RFE) due to missing proof of relationship
- Security checks delaying embassy interviews
- Failure to respond to USCIS or NVC requests in a timely manner
Pro Tip:
Respond to any USCIS or NVC communication within 7 days to avoid automatic case closure.
Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) and Aging Out Protection
In some cases, children turn 21 before the visa process is completed. Luckily, the CSPA helps:
- Allows the child’s “age” to be frozen at the time of I-130 filing or I-485 filing.
- If eligible, the child continues to be treated as under 21.
Example:
If you filed the I-130 when your child was 20, but processing delayed for 2 years, CSPA protection may still allow immigration as a child.
Tips to Speed Up the Process in 2025
✅ File online through USCIS MyAccount for faster processing.
✅ Submit all required documents upfront without missing signatures or translations.
✅ Choose electronic communications for faster NVC updates.
✅ Hire an experienced immigration lawyer if the case is complicated (adoption cases, stepchildren, etc.).
✅ Monitor the Visa Bulletin monthly if you’re a green card holder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my child is adopted?
You can petition an adopted child if:
- The adoption occurred before the child turned 16.
- You have legal custody for at least 2 years.
What if my child is married?
A married child does not qualify as a “child” under immigration law for immediate relative benefits.
You would need to file under the F3 visa category (married children of U.S. citizens).
How soon can my child work or study after arriving?
Once your child enters with an immigrant visa or adjusts status inside the U.S., they become lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and can work and study immediately.
Conclusion
Bringing children under 21 to the U.S. in 2025 remains one of the most important—and thankfully, prioritized—parts of family immigration. By understanding the steps, submitting accurate documents, and proactively following the case, you can expect timelines between 14 to 28 months, depending on your immigration status.
With new digital tools and streamlined USCIS processes in 2025, family reunification is more achievable than ever. Stay patient, stay organized, and soon, your family can be united on U.S. soil.
