The U.S. Department of State has announced that the annual limit for EB-4 Green Cards has been reached for the fiscal year (FY) 2025, which runs until September 30, 2025. This means that no new EB-4 visas will be issued until the new fiscal year begins on October 1, 2025.
For many Indian applicants and other foreign nationals hoping to secure permanent residency under this employment-based visa category, this news is concerning. The backlog is expected to grow, and applicants must explore alternative immigration routes to the United States.
America’s EB-4 Green Card
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| What happened? | The EB-4 Green Card limit for FY 2025 has been reached. No more EB-4 visas will be issued until October 1, 2025. |
| Who is affected? | Indian applicants and other foreign nationals applying for the Special Immigrant category under EB-4. |
| Why is this important? | The backlog may lead to longer processing times and delays for future applicants. |
| What are the alternatives? | Consider applying for EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 visas based on eligibility. |
| Where to get official updates? | Visit the U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin. |
The EB-4 Green Card limit for FY 2025 has been exhausted, delaying approvals until October 1, 2025. This particularly impacts Indian applicants who must now wait or consider alternative visa options.
If you are affected, explore alternative green card categories like EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3. Keep track of updates from USCIS and seek legal advice to ensure the best path forward.
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America’s EB-4 Green Card; Understanding the EB-4 Visa
The Employment-Based Fourth Preference (EB-4) visa is designed for special immigrants, including:
- Religious workers (priests, ministers, missionaries)
- Broadcasters for U.S. media
- Certain medical professionals
- Armed forces members who have served the U.S.
- Employees of international organizations
- Juvenile court dependents seeking protection
- Special translators and interpreters who assisted U.S. military efforts
The annual cap for EB-4 visas is 7.1% of the total employment-based immigrant visas available per fiscal year. This limit is distributed among all applicants, with no single country allowed to take more than 7% of the total green cards available.
America’s EB-4 Green Card: Why the EB-4 Green Card Limit Was Reached
The EB-4 category has been experiencing high demand, particularly among religious workers and humanitarian applicants. Over the years, applicants from India, Mexico, and El Salvador have dominated the category, leading to oversubscription.
With the limit now exhausted, all pending and new applications will be put on hold until October 1, 2025.
Impact on Indian Applicants
For Indian nationals, this development means:
- Longer waiting periods: New applicants will not receive a green card until at least FY 2026.
- Processing backlogs: The backlog will continue to increase as more applicants wait for visa availability.
- Delays in family reunification: Those applying under EB-4 may have to wait longer before bringing dependents to the U.S..
What Happens If You Have a Pending EB-4 Application?
If you have already applied for an EB-4 visa, your application will remain in line, but no approvals will be issued until the new quota is available in October 2025. Applicants are advised to regularly check the Visa Bulletin for priority date updates.
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America’s EB-4 Green Card: Alternative Visa Options for Indian Applicants
Since the EB-4 visa is currently unavailable, Indian applicants should consider other employment-based green card options:
EB-1 Visa (First Preference)
For individuals with extraordinary abilities, outstanding professors or researchers, or multinational executives.
- Pros: Fastest processing time, no labor certification required.
- Cons: Highly selective, requires substantial proof of expertise.
EB-2 Visa (Second Preference)
For professionals with advanced degrees or those who qualify under the National Interest Waiver (NIW).
- Pros: Suitable for highly skilled professionals in STEM, medicine, or research.
- Cons: Requires job sponsorship or proof of national interest.
EB-3 Visa (Third Preference)
For skilled workers, professionals, and other workers.
- Pros: Easier eligibility compared to EB-1 and EB-2.
- Cons: Longer wait times due to high demand.
If you’re not eligible for these employment-based visas, you might want to explore other options like family sponsorship, student visas (F-1), or business-related visas (E-2, L-1, O-1)
America’s EB-4 Green Card: How to Stay Updated on U.S. Immigration Changes
If you are affected by this EB-4 visa freeze, you should stay informed by:
- Checking the Visa Bulletin (Click Here)
- Consulting an Immigration Attorney to explore alternative visa options.
- Following the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updates on the official website.
- Joining online forums and support groups to stay in touch with others in similar situations.
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America’s EB-4 Green Card (FAQs)
Can I still apply for an EB-4 visa in 2025?
Yes, you can still file an EB-4 petition, but no approvals or green cards will be issued until October 1, 2025.
What happens to my EB-4 application now that the cap is reached?
Your application will be placed on hold and processed in the next fiscal year if your priority date becomes current.
How long is the waiting period for EB-4 applicants from India?
The waiting period depends on your priority date, but delays could extend beyond October 2025 due to the backlog.
Are religious workers affected by this visa freeze?
Yes, religious workers applying under EB-4 will not receive approvals until new slots become available in FY 2026.
What alternatives are available for Indian applicants?
If you don’t want to wait, you can explore EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 visas, depending on your qualifications.
