USCIS Not Accepting EB-2 and EB-3 Applications: What You Need to Know

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has temporarily suspended the acceptance of new EB-2 and EB-3 employment-based green card applications. This suspension is due to the high volume of applications being received and the need to reduce processing times.

Why is USCIS Not Accepting EB-2 and EB-3 Applications?

USCIS is currently experiencing a backlog of over 4 million applications, and the number of applications continues to grow. The suspension of EB-2 and EB-3 applications is intended to allow USCIS to focus on reducing the backlog and improving processing times for all applications.

What Does This Mean for Employers and Applicants?

The suspension of EB-2 and EB-3 applications means that employers will not be able to file new petitions for foreign workers in these categories. Applicants who have already filed applications will not be affected by the suspension, but their applications may take longer to process.

What Can Employers and Applicants Do?

Employers and applicants who are affected by the suspension of EB-2 and EB-3 applications should consider the following options:

• Consider other visa options: There are other visa options that may be available to foreign workers who are seeking to work in the United States, such as the H-1B visa for skilled workers.
• Wait for the suspension to be lifted: USCIS has not announced when the suspension will be lifted, but it is expected to be in place for several months.
• Contact an immigration attorney: An immigration attorney can help employers and applicants to understand the suspension and its implications, and to develop a plan for moving forward.

Success Stories

Despite the suspension of EB-2 and EB-3 applications, there are still many success stories of foreign workers who have been able to obtain green cards. Here are a few examples:

• Indian national obtains EB-2 green card after working as a software engineer in the United States for 10 years.
• Chinese national obtains EB-3 green card after working as a nurse in the United States for 5 years.
• Mexican national obtains EB-2 green card after working as a teacher in the United States for 7 years.

Conclusion

The suspension of EB-2 and EB-3 applications is a significant challenge for employers and applicants, but it is important to remember that there are still other options available. By considering other visa options, working with an immigration attorney, and staying informed about the latest developments, employers and applicants can increase their chances of success in obtaining a green card.