The EB-4 visa is an employment-based, fourth-preference immigrant category designed for special immigrants who do not fit into the other employment-based categories. This diverse classification provides a pathway to permanent residency for individuals in unique roles or circumstances recognized by U.S. immigration law.
Who Qualifies Under EB-4?
Religious Workers
Ministers and non-ministers in religious vocations or occupations employed by a bona fide nonprofit religious organization in the U.S.
Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ)
Children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected and are under the jurisdiction of a U.S. juvenile court.
Certain U.S. Government Employees
Current and former U.S. government employees abroad, as well as certain NATO personnel and employees of international organizations.
Other Special Immigrants
This includes Iraqi and Afghan translators and interpreters, broadcasters, and certain employees of U.S.-affiliated organizations overseas.
Key Features of EB-4
No Labor Certification Required
Unlike EB-2 and EB-3, the EB-4 category does not require a PERM labor certification, making the process simpler for eligible applicants.
Visa Allocation
EB-4 visas are capped at approximately 9,940 per year, which equals 7.1% of the worldwide employment-based visa limit. High demand, particularly for SIJ petitions, often leads to backlogs and longer wait times.
Premium Processing
Premium processing is currently not available for EB-4 petitions, which can delay adjudication times.
Why Choose EB-4?
- Covers individuals in unique or humanitarian roles.
- Provides permanent residency without labor certification.
- Recognizes contributions of religious workers, government employees, and vulnerable children.
How Abogada Vida Can Help
At Abogada Vida, we provide compassionate, experienced guidance through the EB-4 process:
- Assessing eligibility for religious workers, SIJ, and other special immigrant categories.
- Preparing and filing strong petitions supported by thorough documentation.
- Navigating visa backlogs and advising on realistic timelines.
- Representing minors, families, and organizations with sensitivity and precision.
Build Your New Vida in the U.S.
The EB-4 visa is a powerful option for special immigrants seeking permanent residency in the United States. Whether you are a religious worker, a vulnerable child, or a government employee abroad, Abogada Vida is here to advocate for you and guide you through every step of the process.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Immigration law is complex and constantly evolving. For advice tailored to your unique situation, please consult directly with our experienced attorney at Abogada Vida.
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