EB-4 Visa: Pathway for Special Immigrants to the USA

What Is the EB-4 Visa?

The EB-4 visa is part of the U.S. employment-based immigration system, specifically designed for special immigrants who do not fall under traditional work or family visa categories. It provides a path to permanent residency for individuals such as religious workers, special immigrant juveniles, certain U.S. government employees abroad, broadcasters, and other unique groups. Many applicants turn to the eb 4 visa as a reliable way to secure lawful permanent residency when no other immigration option applies.

Unlike the more commonly known EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 visas, the EB-4 category serves a very specific purpose: to recognize the contributions of individuals whose work, service, or circumstances are of particular importance to U.S. communities and institutions. For this reason, it plays a vital role in supporting humanitarian needs, international collaboration, and public service.

Who Qualifies as a Special Immigrant?

The EB-4 classification includes a wide range of individuals who meet eligibility requirements:

• Religious workers, such as ministers and non-minister roles within recognized religious organizations. Non-minister positions, however, face a cap of 5,000 visas per year and are subject to expiration under current law.
  
• Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ)—unmarried individuals under 21 who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned and have obtained a qualifying juvenile court order.
  
• Broadcasters employed by U.S. international media outlets such as Voice of America or Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
  
• Long-term employees of international organizations, such as G-4 or NATO-6 civilian employees, as well as their family members.
  
• Other special categories, including certain U.S. government employees abroad, Panama Canal workers, Afghan and Iraqi translators, and qualifying physicians.
  

Annual Visa Limits and Availability

The EB-4 visa is subject to annual limits. By law, it is capped at 7.1% of the worldwide employment-based immigrant quota. Additionally, non-minister religious workers have an annual cap of 5,000 visas, with the program currently extended through September 30, 2025.

Due to high demand, EB-4 visas often reach their limit before the end of the fiscal year. For example, in 2025, the annual allocation was exhausted early, meaning applicants must wait until the next fiscal year—beginning October 1—for new visas to become available.

How to Apply: Process Overview

1. Form I-360 Petition: The process begins with filing Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant. Depending on the category, the petition may be filed by an employer, an organization, or in some cases by the applicant directly.
   
2. USCIS Review: USCIS reviews the application, ensuring eligibility and verifying documentation.
   
3. Visa Bulletin Monitoring: Applicants must wait until their priority date is current, as indicated in the State Department’s monthly Visa Bulletin.
   
4. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing:
   
   • If already in the U.S., applicants may file Form I-485 for adjustment of status.
     
   • If outside the U.S., applicants complete consular processing, including submitting Form DS-260 and attending a visa interview.
     
5. Family Members: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may be included as derivative beneficiaries of the EB-4 applicant.
   

Processing Time & Costs

• Filing Fee for Form I-360: About $515 in the U.S. and $435 abroad.
  
• Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): Around $1,440.
  
• Consular Processing (Form DS-260): Approximately $345, plus an affidavit of support fee of about $120.
  
• Processing Times: I-360 petitions generally take 3 months, while adjustment of status may take 7 months or longer depending on USCIS workload. Consular processing timelines vary by country.
  

Why the EB-4 Visa Matters

The EB-4 visa plays a critical role in U.S. immigration by providing opportunities for individuals who contribute to American society in unique and essential ways. Whether through religious service, international broadcasting, government work, or humanitarian need, this visa ensures that the United States remains open to those who serve both communities and the nation’s broader interests.

That said, applicants should pay attention to deadlines, especially the expiration of certain subcategories such as non-minister religious worker visas. Acting promptly and ensuring all documentation is accurate can significantly improve the chances of approval.

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Final Thoughts

The EB-4 visa remains one of the most specialized yet impactful immigration categories in the U.S. It reflects the nation’s commitment to humanitarian protection, international cooperation, and recognition of dedicated service. For those who qualify, it represents not just a visa, but a pathway to permanent residency and the opportunity to continue contributing meaningfully to American society.