Overview
The EB-4 preference category is designed for 'Special Immigrants', which includes a wide variety of specific applicants such as religious workers, broadcasters, and certain government employees, offering them a pathway to U.S. permanent residency.
Key Benefits
Religious Worker Visa
A dedicated pathway for ministers and non-minister religious workers to immigrate permanently.
Broad Eligibility Options
Covers a diverse range of special groups identified by U.S. immigration law.
Path to U.S. Residency
Results in a U.S. Green Card for the applicant and their eligible dependents.
Eligibility Requirements
Qualifying Special Immigrant Category
Must fall into one of the designated categories, such as Religious Worker, Special Immigrant Juvenile, or Broadcaster.
Two-Year Membership (Religious Workers)
For religious workers, you must have been a member of a religious denomination having a bona fide non-profit religious organization in the U.S. for at least two years immediately before filing.
Employer Petition
Most EB-4 categories require a U.S. employer to file Form I-360 on your behalf.
The Process
Determine Category Eligibility
Identify which specific EB-4 special immigrant category applies to your situation.
Form I-360 Petition
The employer or applicant (depending on category) files Form I-360 with supporting documentation.
Green Card Application
Upon I-360 approval, file for an adjustment of status if in the U.S. or apply for an immigrant visa through consular processing.
Quick Facts
- U.S. Green CardPermanent Residency
- Employer SponsorshipUsually Required (depends on subcategory)
- Target GroupReligious Workers, Broadcasters, etc.
- Family IncludedSpouse & children under 21
