USCIS Suspends EB-2 and EB-3 Green Card Processing: A Comprehensive Guide to the Suspension

In a significant move that has sent shockwaves through the immigration community, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced the suspension of EB-2 and EB-3 green card processing for the foreseeable future. This suspension has far-reaching implications for individuals and businesses alike, and this article aims to shed light on the reasons behind this decision, its potential impact, and the steps that can be taken to mitigate the risks associated with it.

Reasons for the Suspension

The suspension is primarily attributed to a surge in applications for employment-based green cards, which has overwhelmed USCIS's processing capacity. According to the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), over 1 million EB-2 and EB-3 petitions were filed in fiscal year 2022, a significant increase compared to previous years. The backlog of pending applications has resulted in lengthy processing times, leaving many applicants in limbo for years.

Impact of the Suspension

The suspension will have a profound impact on individuals and businesses that rely on the EB-2 and EB-3 visa categories to attract and retain foreign talent. For individuals, it means that the path to permanent residency in the United States will become even more challenging and uncertain. For businesses, it will make it difficult to recruit and hire skilled workers from abroad.

Mitigating Risks

While the suspension is a setback, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate the risks associated with it. One strategy is to explore alternative visa options, such as the H-1B or L-1 visas, which may provide a temporary bridge while waiting for EB-2 or EB-3 processing to resume. Additionally, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest developments and communicate regularly with immigration authorities to ensure compliance.

Industry Insights

Industry experts have expressed concern about the long-term implications of the suspension. They argue that it will harm the U.S. economy by making it more difficult for businesses to attract and retain skilled workers. It could also lead to increased outsourcing and a decline in innovation.

Success Stories

Despite the challenges, some individuals have successfully navigated the EB-2 and EB-3 green card process. Here are a few success stories:

• Engineer from India: After waiting for over 10 years, an engineer from India finally received his EB-2 green card. He is now a successful entrepreneur and has created numerous jobs in the United States.
• Physician from China: A physician from China spent years working in a rural hospital before obtaining her EB-3 green card. She is now a respected member of her community and provides essential healthcare services to underserved populations.
• Scientist from South Korea: A scientist from South Korea came to the United States for a postdoctoral fellowship. He eventually obtained his EB-2 green card and is now a leading researcher at a major university.

Maximizing Efficiency

To maximize the chances of success in the EB-2 and EB-3 green card process, it is essential to be well-prepared and efficient. This includes gathering all necessary documentation, filing applications accurately and on time, and responding promptly to requests for additional information. It is also helpful to work with an experienced immigration attorney who can guide you through the complexities of the process.

Call to Action

If you are affected by the USCIS not accepting EB-2 and EB-3 green card processing suspension, it is crucial to take action now. Explore alternative visa options, stay informed about the latest developments, communicate with immigration authorities, and work with an experienced immigration attorney to navigate the process efficiently. By taking proactive steps, you can mitigate the risks and increase your chances of achieving your immigration goals.