EB4 Visa Suspension for FY 2025: What It Means for Indian Applicants & Alternatives
For many Indian applicants, the EB-4 visa has been a lifeline, offering a path to U.S. permanent residency. The category is mainly reserved for religious workers, specific special immigrants, and international broadcasters. But now, that path is temporarily closed. The EB-4 visa suspension for FY 2025 means no new green cards will be issued under this category until October 1, 2025.
This sudden halt is a major setback, especially for those who were counting on this visa for their future in the U.S. Whether you are in the process of applying or waiting in the backlog, the news is frustrating. But what does this mean for Indian applicants, and what alternatives do they have?
Why Did the US Halt EB-4 Visas?
The U.S. government sets annual limits on employment-based green cards. The EB-4 visa category receives only 7.1% of the total employment-based green card quota. With high demand, the allocation for this fiscal year has already run out.
Now, the US EB-4 visa halt impact on Indians is clear—applicants will have to wait until FY 2026 to move forward. U.S. embassies and consulates have been directed to stop processing these EB4 applications, leading to further backlogs and delays.
How Does This Affect Indian Applicants?
For Indian applicants, the situation is especially difficult due to country-specific visa limits. With the FY 2025 EB-4 visa suspension effects, processing delays will increase, making the wait even longer. Those who were expecting to receive their EB-4 green card soon will now have to reconsider their plans.
Many applicants may also face challenges with their temporary status in the U.S. If your visa is expiring and you were relying on EB-4, it’s time to explore other options.
Alternatives for Indian EB-4 Applicants
While the US immigration changes FY 2025 EB-4 suspension is disappointing, there are still other ways to secure a U.S. green card.
- EB-1 Green Card – If you have exceptional skills in your field, EB-1 could be your best option. The EB-1A category, in particular, does not require employer sponsorship, making it a great choice for those with outstanding achievements.
- EB-2 or EB-3 Visa – If you have an advanced degree or specialized work experience, these categories could work for you. However, employer sponsorship is required.
- H-1B Visa –The H-1B visa is your gateway to working in the U.S. as a skilled professional. It’s a temporary work visa that lets U.S. employers hire foreign talent in specialized fields—typically requiring at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. If you’re already working in the U.S. or looking for job opportunities, the H-1B can be a stepping stone while you map out your long-term immigration plan, whether that’s securing an EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 green card.
- Family-Sponsored Green Cards – If you have family members who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, this could be another way to secure your green card.
For those affected by the Indian applicants affected by EB4 halt, shifting focus to these alternatives can help keep their U.S. immigration journey on track.
Conclusion
The EB4 visa suspension for FY 2025 will remain in effect until October 1, 2025. If you were planning to apply for the EB4 visa, you should start considering other visa options now.
At Smart Green Card, we assist professionals and students in building a strong visa profile by leveraging their expertise. Whether you’re aiming for an EB-1A, O-1A, or EB2 NIW visa, our Smart Green Card VIP Plan provides expert guidance to navigate the process.
For students, the Smart Green Card Student Plan offers expert guidance to explore complex immigration pathways and find the best options.
Don’t let the US visa suspension slow you down—visit Smart Green Card today to explore your options and move forward with confidence.
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