A Comprehensive Guide to the EB-4 Visa and the Green Card

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the EB-4 Visa, a pathway to the United States designed for individuals with special skills or backgrounds. If you’re seeking to live and work in the U.S. permanently, this visa might just be the key you’ve been looking for. In this post, we’ll delve into the details of the EB-4 Visa, its eligibility criteria, application process, and why it could be the perfect fit for you.

What is the EB-4 Visa?
The EB-4 Visa is an employment-based immigrant visa category that allows certain special immigrants to obtain lawful permanent residency in the United States. It is specifically designed for individuals with unique skills, backgrounds, or circumstances that benefit the U.S. This visa category covers a diverse range of individuals, from religious workers to broadcasters, armed forces members, and more.

Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the EB-4 Visa, you must fall into one of the following categories:

1. Religious Workers: Individuals who are members of a recognized religious denomination and have been carrying out religious work for at least two years may be eligible.
2. Special Immigrant Juveniles: Children who have been declared dependent on a juvenile court in the U.S., provided that they are eligible for long-term foster care and cannot be reunified with their parents.
3. Broadcasters: Employees of the International Broadcasting Bureau of the Broadcasting Board of Governors, or similar organizations, who have worked for at least 15 years in providing news or information to international audiences.
4. Armed Forces Members: Current or former members of the U.S. Armed Forces, specific medical professionals, and certain employees or former employees of the U.S. Government abroad.
5. Physicians: Certain foreign medical graduates who have been practicing medicine in a clinical or research capacity in designated underserved areas.
6. Iraqi/Afghan Translators: Translators who have worked directly with the U.S. Armed Forces as a translator for at least two years.

Application Process:
The application process for the EB-4 Visa involves several steps:

1. File Form I-360: This is the Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant. The appropriate form must be filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
2. Wait for Approval: Once USCIS receives your petition, they will review it to ensure it meets all requirements. If approved, you will receive a Notice of Action (Form I-797).
3. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: Depending on your circumstances, you will either apply for adjustment of status if you are in the U.S., or go through consular processing if you are outside the U.S.
4. Attend Biometrics Appointment: If required, you will need to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photo, and signature.
5. Attend Interview (if applicable): Some applicants are required to attend an interview at a USCIS office.
6. Receive Decision: After completing all necessary steps, you will receive a decision on your EB-4 Visa application.

Benefits of the EB-4 Visa:
The EB-4 Visa offers several advantages to individuals seeking permanent residency in the U.S.:

1. Permanent Residency: Successful applicants receive lawful permanent residency (Green Card) in the United States.
2. Work Authorization: Holders of the EB-4 Visa are authorized to work and live permanently in the U.S.
3. Eligibility for Citizenship: After holding a Green Card for a certain period, EB-4 Visa holders may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.
4. Family Benefits: Immediate family members, including spouses and unmarried children under 21, may also be eligible to accompany or join the EB-4 Visa holder in the U.S.

Conclusion:
The EB-4 Visa presents a valuable opportunity for individuals with special skills or circumstances to obtain permanent residency in the United States. Whether you are a religious worker, broadcaster, armed forces member, or fall into one of the other eligible categories, this visa could be the pathway to a new chapter in your life. Remember to carefully review the eligibility criteria and follow the application process diligently to maximize your chances of success.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your EB-4 Visa application, don’t hesitate to reach out to HAYMAN-WOODWARD. Our team of immigration experts is here to help you navigate this important journey.