EB4 Processing Time 2025: How Long It Takes and What to Expect

Introduction: Understanding the EB4 Visa Category

The EB4 visa is a special employment-based green card designed for certain categories of immigrants, such as religious workers, special immigrant juveniles, certain employees of the U.S. government abroad, and Afghan/Iraqi translators.

In 2025, the demand for EB4 visas remains strong, and while USCIS has implemented new digital processes to speed up adjudications, backlogs persist due to limited annual visa numbers and high application volumes. Understanding each step of the process can help you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary delays.

What Is an EB4 Visa?

The EB4 visa category grants lawful permanent residency to individuals who meet specific criteria defined under U.S. immigration law. Unlike other employment-based visas, it does not usually require labor certification.

Who Qualifies for EB4 in 2025

• Religious ministers and workers.
• Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ).
• Certain broadcasters for the U.S. Agency for Global Media.
• Afghan and Iraqi translators/interpreters for the U.S. Armed Forces.
• Employees of the U.S. government abroad.
• Certain physicians and international organization workers.

EB4 Processing Time Overview

Average Timeframes in 2025

• USCIS Stage: 4–12 months for Form I-360 adjudication.
• NVC Stage: 3–6 months for visa pre-processing.
• Interview Stage: 6–12 months, depending on consular backlogs.

Total EB4 processing in 2025 can range from 13 to 30 months, though certain cases may move faster.

USCIS vs. NVC Processing Stages

USCIS handles the initial petition review (Form I-360), while the National Visa Center (NVC) manages visa pre-processing for applicants outside the U.S. If you are adjusting status in the U.S., the NVC stage does not apply.

Country-Specific Backlogs

Applicants from countries with high demand (such as Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras for SIJ cases) may face longer waits due to visa number limits.

Step-by-Step EB4 Process and Timeline

Step 1: Filing Form I-360 (4–12 Months)

Your EB4 journey starts with filing Form I-360 with USCIS. Religious workers may need employer sponsorship, while SIJ applicants require state juvenile court orders before filing.

Step 2: USCIS Review and Approval

USCIS will review eligibility, request additional evidence if necessary, and issue an approval notice once your petition is accepted.

Step 3: National Visa Center (NVC) Processing (3–6 Months)

If you are outside the U.S., your approved petition is sent to the NVC, which collects fees, civil documents, and the DS-260 immigrant visa application.

Step 4: Consular Interview or Adjustment of Status (6–12 Months)

• Consular Processing: The U.S. embassy schedules an interview to finalize your immigrant visa.
• Adjustment of Status: Applicants in the U.S. file Form I-485 to become permanent residents.

EB4 Timeline for Special Categories

Religious Workers

In 2025, non-minister religious worker programs have been extended, but processing remains slow due to background checks.

Special Immigrant Juveniles

These cases face some of the longest delays due to statutory limits on visa numbers for certain countries.

Afghan & Iraqi Translators

These applications are often prioritized due to service to U.S. forces, but embassy closures or reduced staffing can slow progress.

Certain Broadcasters and U.S. Government Employees Abroad

Processing tends to be faster as these are smaller-volume categories.

Factors Affecting EB4 Processing Time in 2025

Annual Visa Caps

The EB4 category is subject to an annual quota of approximately 10,000 visas.

Country of Chargeability

If your country is oversubscribed, you may wait until your priority date becomes current.

USCIS Workload and Staffing

Staff shortages or policy changes can increase wait times.

Recent Changes in 2025 Impacting EB4 Timelines

Digital Filing Enhancements

USCIS now allows more EB4-related forms to be filed online, reducing mailing delays.

Priority Date Movements in Visa Bulletin

Some EB4 categories have advanced faster in 2025, especially for religious workers.

How to Check Your EB4 Case Status

USCIS Online Tools

You can track Form I-360 using the USCIS Case Status tool with your receipt number.

NVC Case Tracking

Once your petition is at the NVC, use the CEAC portal to check status updates.

Tips to Avoid EB4 Delays

Submitting a Complete Petition

Include all required evidence, signatures, and translations.

Responding to RFEs Quickly

Delays in responding can set your case back several months.

Staying Updated on Visa Bulletin

Check the Department of State’s monthly Visa Bulletin to monitor your priority date.

What to Do if Your EB4 Case Is Delayed

Service Requests

Submit an online inquiry if your case is outside normal processing times.

Contacting Your Consulate

Reach out to the embassy if your case is stuck at the interview stage.

Congressional Assistance

A U.S. senator or representative can request a status update on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions About EB4 Processing Time 2025

1. How long does EB4 processing take in 2025?
Between 13 and 30 months on average, depending on case type and location.

2. Can I work while my EB4 is pending?
Not unless you have a separate work authorization or status.

3. Is premium processing available for EB4?
Generally, no — but some EB4 petitions may be eligible in the future.

4. How do I know if my priority date is current?
Check the monthly Visa Bulletin from the U.S. Department of State.

5. Do EB4 visas have an annual cap?
Yes, approximately 10,000 visas per fiscal year.

6. Can I change from EB4 to another category?
Possibly, but you may need to file a new petition.

Conclusion: Navigating the EB4 Timeline Successfully

The EB4 processing time in 2025 depends on your category, country of origin, and whether you are applying from inside or outside the U.S. By preparing a complete application, staying informed about the Visa Bulletin, and responding quickly to USCIS or NVC requests, you can minimize delays and move toward permanent residency more efficiently.