In a major move affecting skilled immigrants, the United States has announced a freeze on the issuance of EB-1 green cards until October 1, 2025. This decision comes on the heels of an earlier announcement suspending EB-2 green card processing for the same period. The Department of State, in coordination with USCIS, confirmed that the annual cap for EB-1 visas has already been reached for this fiscal year, which ends on September 30, 2025. Consequently, no new EB-1 visas will be processed until the new fiscal cycle begins. This announcement has shocked thousands of applicants, especially from India, where long-standing backlogs have already stretched immigration timelines. The freeze applies to all applicants, including those seeking employment-based visas for specialized or extraordinary ability categories. The US government cited national security concerns, demand exceeding supply, and regulatory compliance as reasons for enforcing stricter controls. Beyond Border is closely monitoring these developments and advising applicants on how to navigate this challenging phase.
The repercussions of this policy change are most acutely felt by Indian applicants, who form a significant portion of the demand in both EB-1 and EB-2 categories. According to the latest Visa Bulletin, the final action date for EB-1 applicants from India stands at February 15, 2022, meaning that only those with priority dates before this cutoff are eligible for processing. Thousands of applicants who had hoped to secure permanent residency are now facing indefinite delays. The announcement has raised concerns among families and employers who rely on high-skilled talent, particularly in sectors like technology and research. Beyond Border has highlighted that many Indian professionals, especially those with approved petitions, may now have to wait years before their cases move forward. This uncertainty is causing widespread anxiety, and legal experts are urging affected applicants to explore alternative routes such as visa extensions, dependent visa categories, or investment-based immigration pathways. Staying informed is crucial during this transitional period.
For Indian nationals impacted by this visa freeze, careful planning and exploration of alternatives are essential. Immigration experts at Beyond Border recommend that applicants consult with legal advisors to assess options such as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which allows qualified individuals to obtain permanent residency by investing in approved US businesses. Additionally, applicants should closely monitor the upcoming fiscal year’s Visa Bulletin to track priority dates and prepare all necessary documentation ahead of time. It is also advisable to consider temporary visa categories that may allow continued stay in the US until EB-1 or EB-2 availability resumes. Transparency in the visa interview process, strong evidence of employment, and proof of intent to return to one’s home country remain critical. Beyond Border’s team of specialists is guiding applicants through every step, ensuring they make informed decisions that align with their long-term career and personal goals. While the EB-1 freeze presents a major hurdle, proactive action can help applicants stay prepared and resilient during this period of uncertainty.
