2024 EB-2 Visa Limit Reached, Says State Department.
In collaboration with USCIS, the U.S. Department of State has stated that the annual limit for the EB-2 immigrant visa category has been met for FY 2024. As a result, the category ceases to be available and will remain so until September 30, the end of the fiscal year. The EB-2 visa category is reserved for persons with unusual ability and professionals with advanced degrees, who have contributed and continue to do so in several industries that bolster the U.S. economy.
Understanding the EB-2 Visa Limit
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), there is a cap on the total number of employment-based immigrant visas issued each fiscal year. Specifically, INA 203(b)(2) declares that the annual limit for EB-2 visas is set at 28.6% of the total worldwide employment-based visa limit. With this restriction in place, there is a controlled flow of immigrants into the U.S. labor market, which in turn balances the country’s immigration policies with its economic needs.
Impact of the FY 2024 EB-2 visa limit Reached
Since the annual EB-2 visa limit for 2024 has been met, embassies and consulates worldwide will no longer issue EB-2 immigrant visas for the remainder of the fiscal year (which ends September 30). This exhaustion of visas may result in delays for applicants already in the process of securing an EB-2 visa, as their cases may now be suspended pending when new visas become available.
Resumption in FY 2025
Fortunately, the visa limit will reset with the start of the new fiscal year on October 1, 2024. At that time, qualified EB-2 applicants will be able to resume processing as embassies and consulates will once again have permission to issue visas in this category. Applicants should stay updated on any changes and consult with immigration officials for further help.
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