The U.S. Department of State recently announced the annual limit for Employment-Based Fourth Preference (EB-4) visas has been reached for fiscal year 2025, months earlier than last year. If you’re unfamiliar with this category or unsure how this announcement impacts you, we’ve broken it down below.
Understanding the EB-4 Visa
The EB-4 visa category is designed for certain “special immigrants,” including religious workers, vulnerable immigrant minors, retired employees of international organizations, and certain employees of the U.S. government.
This visa category helps individuals who don’t neatly fit into typical employment or family immigration groups but have special circumstances or connections that qualify them for permanent residency.
What Does “Limit Reached” Mean?
Each year, the U.S. sets specific limits on how many visas can be issued in each category. The limit for EB-4 visas for fiscal year 2025 (which ends September 30, 2025) has already been reached. As a result, no additional EB-4 visas will be available until the new fiscal year begins on October 1, 2025. Last year, the limit was not reached until August.
Who is Impacted?
If you are in the process of applying or planning to apply for an EB-4 visa, this announcement directly impacts you. You will now need to wait until October 1, 2025, for new visa numbers to become available.
What Steps Can You Take?
While the pause in visa issuance might be challenging, there are proactive steps you can take now:
- Stay Updated: Regularly follow announcements from the Department of State and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Seek Expert Advice: Consult with an immigration expert or attorney who can guide you through possible alternative immigration options.
- Organize Your Application: Ensure that all your paperwork and documentation are in order, so you’re ready to submit promptly when visas become available again.
Looking Ahead
Although this delay might feel frustrating, visa numbers reset annually, providing renewed opportunities each fiscal year. By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure a smoother process when the EB-4 visa becomes available again.