F2A Backlog Drops 94% in Two Years: What It Means for Green Card Holders' Families

The backlog for F2A visas—covering spouses and unmarried children under 21 of lawful permanent residents—has seen a dramatic decline over the past two years. According to USCIS data, the number of approved but waiting Form I-130 petitions in the F2A category dropped from approximately 380,000 in September 2023 to just 22,990, representing a 94% reduction. This shift has significant implications for green card holders waiting to bring their immediate family members to the United States. A shorter queue generally means visa numbers become available more quickly, potentially allowing beneficiaries to move forward with their immigrant visa applications or adjustment of status sooner than previously anticipated. For EB-3 workers who have already obtained their green cards, this development is particularly relevant. Many employment-based immigrants have family members still waiting in the F2A queue, and this backlog reduction could substantially accelerate family reunification timelines. Applicants currently in the F2A pipeline should monitor the monthly Visa Bulletin closely for priority date movements. Those whose priority dates are now current or nearing currency should consult with an immigration attorney to determine if they are eligible to file for adjustment of status or proceed with consular processing.