An “Upgrade Letter” is used to ask USCIS to change your visa category. This happens when a green card holder becomes a US citizen. Their spouse or child, once in the F2A category, can now be in the IR-1 category. This new category often means faster processing.
Need to write this letter? You’re in the right place. We know it can be tricky. That’s why we’re here to help.
We’ve got templates and examples. These samples will make writing your letter easy. Let’s get started and simplify this process!
Sample Letter To Upgrade From F2A To Ir1
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
USCIS
[USCIS Address]
**Subject: Request to Upgrade F2A Petition to IR1 – [Beneficiary’s Name], [Beneficiary’s Date of Birth], [Receipt Number]**
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am writing to request an upgrade of the pending F2A petition, Receipt Number [Receipt Number], filed on behalf of my [Relationship to Beneficiary], [Beneficiary’s Name], born on [Beneficiary’s Date of Birth].
The original petition was filed when I was a lawful permanent resident of the United States. I am now a U.S. citizen, having been naturalized on [Date of Naturalization]. A copy of my Certificate of Naturalization is enclosed.
As a U.S. citizen, I am now eligible to sponsor my [Relationship to Beneficiary] under the Immediate Relative (IR1) category. This upgrade will allow for faster processing of my [Relationship to Beneficiary]’s immigration case.
I kindly request that you upgrade the F2A petition to an IR1 petition. I have enclosed the following documents for your consideration:
* Copy of my Certificate of Naturalization
* Copy of the original F2A petition approval notice (if available)
* [Any other relevant documents]
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your positive response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Signature]
How to Write Letter To Upgrade From F2A To IR1
Subject Line: Clarity is Paramount
- Be explicit: “Request to Reclassify F2A Petition to IR1 Based on Marriage to U.S. Citizen” is a solid choice.
- Include your case number for effortless traceability.
- Succinctness is your ally; avoid verbose embellishments.
Salutation: A Touch of Formality
- Address the USCIS officer or department directly, if known. “To Whom It May Concern” remains acceptable as a fallback.
- Maintain a respectful tenor throughout.
Introduction: Setting the Stage
- Identify yourself and your spouse (the U.S. citizen).
- State the purpose of your letter forthrightly: you are requesting the reclassification of your F2A petition to an IR1 petition due to your spouse’s naturalization.
- Reference the original F2A petition receipt number.
Body Paragraph 1: The Pivotal Transformation
- Clearly elucidate the date your spouse became a U.S. citizen. This is the crux of your appeal.
- Emphasize that this pivotal transformation renders you immediately eligible for IR1 classification, bypassing the protracted waiting period associated with F2A.
Body Paragraph 2: Substantiating Evidence
- Enumerate the corroborating documents you are including: a copy of your spouse’s naturalization certificate, a copy of your marriage certificate, and any other pertinent documentation, such as copies of previously submitted forms related to the F2A petition.
- Assure the USCIS that these documents irrefutably demonstrate your eligibility for the upgrade.
Conclusion: A Polite Entreaty
- Reiterate your request for the petition’s reclassification with polite assertiveness.
- Express your eagerness to furnish any supplementary information or documentation deemed necessary.
- Thank the USCIS for their time and consideration.
Closing: A Professional Sign-Off
- Opt for a formal closing: “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”
- Include your full name, phone number, and email address for effortless communication.
- Sign the letter physically if submitting a hard copy; type your name if submitting electronically.
Frequently Asked Questions: Upgrading from F2A to IR1
This section addresses common questions regarding the process of upgrading from an F2A (Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident) to an IR1 (Immediate Relative of a U.S. Citizen) immigrant visa.
Understanding the eligibility and procedures involved can help streamline your immigration journey.
What is the primary difference between the F2A and IR1 visa categories?
The F2A visa is for spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of lawful permanent residents, while the IR1 visa is for spouses of U.S. citizens. The key difference lies in the petitioner’s citizenship status.
When can I upgrade from F2A to IR1?
You can upgrade to IR1 once your F2A petitioner (your spouse) becomes a U.S. citizen. Proof of their naturalization is required.
What documents are needed to upgrade my visa category?
Essential documents include proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship (e.g., naturalization certificate), your marriage certificate, and any previously submitted documentation supporting your F2A petition. You’ll also need to inform USCIS of the upgrade.
How do I notify USCIS about the upgrade?
You should send a letter to the National Visa Center (NVC) or USCIS, depending on the stage of your application. Include your case number, your spouse’s name, and a copy of their naturalization certificate, clearly stating your intention to upgrade to IR1.
Will upgrading expedite my immigration process?
Yes, the IR1 visa is generally processed faster than the F2A visa because it falls under the Immediate Relative category, which does not have annual numerical limitations.