The EB-4 visa is a special employment-based immigration option that allows certain individuals to live and work permanently in the United States. This visa category is available to people who meet specific criteria, such as religious workers, broadcasters, certain doctors, employees of international organizations, and members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the EB-4 visa, including eligibility, costs, processing times, and the step-by-step application process.
What is an EB-4 Visa?
The EB-4 visa is a U.S. immigrant visa designed for individuals in special categories who wish to live and work permanently in the U.S. Unlike other employment-based visas, the EB-4 is specifically for special immigrants, such as:
- Religious Workers: Ministers, priests, and other religious professionals.
- Broadcasters: Individuals working in broadcasting for international organizations like the Voice of America.
- Physicians: Doctors who will work in underserved areas or have met certain other criteria.
- Employees of International Organizations: Workers employed by organizations like the United Nations or World Bank.
- Armed Forces Members: Individuals who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Each of these groups must meet specific qualifications to apply for the EB-4 visa.
How Much Does an EB-4 Visa Cost?
The cost of applying for an EB-4 visa can vary depending on whether you are applying from within the U.S. or abroad. Below are the filing fees for various stages of the process:
- If you are applying from within the U.S.:
- Form I-360 (Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant): $515
- Immigrant Fee (Green Card fee): $235
- Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): $1,440
- If you are applying from outside the U.S.:
- Form I-360: $435
- Form DS-260 (Green Card Application): $345
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): $120
These fees may change, so be sure to check the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website or consult with an immigration expert for the most up-to-date fee information.
EB-4 Visa Processing Time
The processing time for the EB-4 visa depends on various factors, such as the specific visa category and the applicant’s country of origin. On average:
- Form I-360 Processing Time: 7.7 months
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): For those already in the U.S., processing takes about 6.4 months.
Once Form I-360 is approved, applicants must wait for a visa to become available. Processing times may vary depending on your country, as certain countries have higher demand for visas and may face longer waiting times.
If you are applying from outside the U.S., the application will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) and then forwarded to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country for an interview. Wait times for interviews also depend on the location of the embassy or consulate.
EB-4 Visa Eligibility
To qualify for the EB-4 visa, applicants must fit into one of the special immigrant categories. Here are the main categories:
- Religious Workers: This includes ministers and other religious workers coming to the U.S. to work in a religious capacity.
- Broadcasters: Individuals employed by international broadcasting organizations like Voice of America.
- Certain Physicians: Doctors who agree to work in underserved areas or have completed specific requirements, such as the two-year foreign residence requirement.
- Employees of International Organizations: Individuals working for international organizations like the United Nations or World Bank.
- U.S. Armed Forces Members: Current or former members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have served honorably for at least 12 years.
Each category has its own set of requirements, so it’s essential to check the details for your specific case. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to consult with an immigration expert to ensure you meet the criteria for the EB-4 visa.
How to Apply for an EB-4 Visa
The application process for the visa involves several steps. Here is a breakdown:
- File Form I-360: The first step is for the petitioner (usually an employer or organization) to file Form I-360 with USCIS. This form serves as the petition to verify the applicant’s eligibility.
- USCIS Review: USCIS will review your petition and supporting documents. They will check that all information is accurate and that you meet the eligibility requirements for your specific category.
- Form I-360 Approval: If USCIS approves your petition, you will receive a notification, and you can proceed to the next step.
- Wait for Visa Availability: Once your petition is approved, you must wait for a visa to become available. This depends on the category and your country of origin.
- Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: After a visa becomes available, you can either:
- Adjustment of Status: If you are already in the U.S., you can file Form I-485 to adjust your status to that of a permanent resident.
- Consular Processing: If you are outside the U.S., you will apply for your green card at a U.S. embassy or consulate. This will involve attending an interview and submitting additional documents.
Required Documents for EB-4 Visa
The documents you need for the EB-4 visa will depend on the specific category you’re applying under, but here is a general checklist:
- Completed Form I-360
- Evidence proving eligibility (e.g., employment records, religious worker certifications, medical waivers, military service records)
- Passport-style photographs
- Proof of identity and nationality
- Birth certificate and marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificates from your country of residence
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), if applicable
- Medical exam records
- Visa application fees
Other Employment-Based Visas
If the EB-4 visa doesn’t apply to your situation, other employment-based visa options may be available:
- EB-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary abilities.
- EB-2 Visa: For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities.
- EB-3 Visa: For skilled workers and professionals.
- EB-5 Visa: For immigrant investors who create jobs in the U.S.
- E-2 Visa: For temporary nonimmigrant investors.
EB-4 Visa FAQs
- Can I apply for an EB-4 visa on my own, or do I need a sponsor? Depending on the category, you may need a sponsor, such as an employer, religious organization, or U.S. Armed Forces to file the petition on your behalf.
- Are there annual limits or quotas for the EB-4 visa? Yes, some categories under the EB-4 visa are subject to annual limits, while others are not. The U.S. Department of State manages visa availability, and quotas can affect waiting times.
- Can I work for any employer with an EB-4 visa? Generally, the visa is tied to a specific employer or organization. However, some categories, like religious workers, offer more flexibility.
- Can I bring my dependents on my EB-4 visa? Yes, you can bring your spouse and unmarried children under 21 as dependents on your EB-4 visa application. They will be eligible to join you in the U.S. and may receive their own benefits.
The EB-4 visa offers a path to permanent residence for individuals in specialized fields, including religious workers, broadcasters, physicians, and more. While the application process may seem complex, understanding the steps, fees, and requirements can help you successfully navigate it. If you need help with your immigration journey, Law and Visas is here to guide you through the process, ensuring that your application is as smooth and efficient as possible. Get started today by consulting with one of our experts!
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the US straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Green Card, Visitor Visa, or Study Visa, we handle every step from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need in the US. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
