EB-4: Special Immigrants
Form I-360 | Employment-Based Fourth Preference (EB-4) Visa
The EB-4 visa is a unique employment-based immigrant category reserved for “special immigrants” — individuals whose roles or circumstances do not fit traditional employment-based pathways but who are still eligible for lawful permanent residence (a green card) in the United States.
Unlike other employment-based green cards, the EB-4 typically does not require a PERM labor certification and, depending on the subcategory, may not require an employer sponsor. Petitions are filed using Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant.
Who Qualifies for EB-4?
✅ Religious Workers
Ministers and religious professionals who have worked in a religious vocation for at least two years, sponsored by a bona fide nonprofit religious organization in the U.S.
✅ Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ)
Children in the U.S. who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by one or both parents. Must be under 21 with a valid juvenile court order stating it is not in their best interest to return to their home country.
✅ Afghan and Iraqi Nationals
Translators, interpreters, or employees who worked directly for or on behalf of the U.S. government in Afghanistan or Iraq, meeting specific time-of-service and documentation requirements.
✅ Broadcasters
Employees of the U.S. Agency for Global Media or its grantees, such as Voice of America or Radio Free Europe.
✅ Certain Physicians
Doctors who have practiced medicine in underserved U.S. areas under designated programs for a required period.
✅ International Organization Employees
Former long-term employees of international organizations (like the United Nations or World Bank) and their eligible family members.
✅ Armed Forces Members
Certain foreign nationals who have served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces for at least 12 years.
✅ Panama Canal Zone Employees
Eligible long-term employees of the Panama Canal Company or Canal Zone government.
✅ NATO Civilian Employees
Certain retired civilian NATO employees and their family members.
Filing Process
Form I-360 Petition: Filed by the applicant or sponsoring organization, depending on the subcategory.
Form I-485 Adjustment of Status: For applicants inside the U.S. when a visa number is available.
Consular Processing: Available for applicants outside the U.S.
Supporting Evidence: Required to prove eligibility under the chosen special immigrant category.
Benefits of the EB-4 Green Card
✅ Direct path to lawful permanent residence in the U.S.
✅ No PERM labor certification required
✅ Many subcategories allow self-petitioning
✅ Spouse and unmarried children under 21 may qualify for derivative green cards
✅ Live and work permanently in the U.S. with the opportunity to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years
Who Should Consider the EB-4?
The EB-4 is ideal for:
Religious and faith-based professionals
Humanitarian or government service workers
Foreign nationals who have supported U.S. interests abroad in critical roles
Immigrant children needing protection under U.S. jurisdiction
How USCIS Expert Helps
If you believe you may qualify under any EB-4 special immigrant category, USCIS Expert is here to help you:
Evaluate your eligibility
Prepare and file your Form I-360 and supporting documents
Guide you through adjustment of status or consular processing
Support you and your family through every step toward permanent residency