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EB-4 Visas: Special Immigrants

Trusted Support from the Law Office of Nathan Earwood

The EB-4 visa can be a lifeline for individuals in unique circumstances seeking a path to permanent residency in the U.S. Whether you’re a religious worker, a special immigrant juvenile, or someone else who qualifies under this category, navigating the complexities of immigration law can feel overwhelming.

At the Law Office of Nathan Earwood, we understand how stressful this journey can be. Our experienced EB-4 visa attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way, offering expertise, compassion, and personalized solutions to help you achieve your goals.

Why Choose the Law Office of Nathan Earwood for Your EB-4 Green Card?

Personalized Service: Immigration challenges are personal. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your unique needs, and build a strategy tailored to your goals.

Flexible Consultations: Whether you prefer to meet in person, virtually, or by phone, we make connecting with us easy and convenient.

Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews: Our clients consistently praise our professionalism, empathy, and results-driven approach. We are proud to serve individuals and families in Asheville, Waynesville, Sylva, Franklin, Robbinsville, and beyond.

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What Is the EB-4 Visa Category?

The EB-4 visa, also known as the fourth-preference employment-based immigrant visa, is designed for “special immigrants.” It covers individuals in unique situations, including:

  • Religious Workers: Ministers and others in recognized religious vocations or occupations.
  • Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJs): Minors in the U.S. who have been abandoned, abused, or neglected by a parent.
  • Certain broadcasters, physicians, armed forces members, and others.

Each subgroup has specific eligibility requirements and documentation needs. Working with an experienced EB-4 visa lawyer can help ensure that your application is complete and filed correctly.

EB-4 Visa Eligibility Requirements

Religious Workers

If you’re seeking an EB-4 religious worker visa, you must meet specific criteria, including:

  • Being part of a U.S.-based nonprofit religious denomination for at least two years.
  • Planning to work full-time as a minister or in a religious occupation/vocation for a nonprofit or affiliated organization.
  • Providing proof of at least two continuous years of work in a religious capacity after age 14, with acceptable breaks (e.g., training).

Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJs)

For juveniles who have experienced abandonment, abuse, or neglect by a parent, the EB-4 SIJ category offers a path to safety and stability. Requirements include:

  • Being under 21 and unmarried at the time of filing.
  • Having a U.S. juvenile court order confirming dependency and the inability to reunite with a parent.
  • Demonstrating that it’s not in the juvenile’s best interest to return to their home country.

How Our EB-4 Visa Attorneys Can Help

  • Determine Your Eligibility: We’ll review your case in detail to identify the appropriate EB-4 category.
  • Complete and File Form I-360: This essential petition requires careful documentation to avoid errors or delays.
  • Support Your Green Card Application: Once your petition is approved, we’ll help you file Form I-485 to adjust your status or navigate consular processing if you’re outside the U.S.
  • Advocate for You Every Step of the Way: From initial consultations to final approvals, we’ll be your partner and advocate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an EB-4 visa category?

The EB-4 visa category is a fourth-preference employment-based green card for “special immigrants,” including religious workers, juveniles in need of court protection, and other unique groups.

Who qualifies as an EB-4 religious worker?

An EB-4 religious worker is a minister or someone in a recognized religious occupation or vocation (e.g., nuns, monks). They must have worked in their role for at least two years and be employed full-time by a nonprofit religious organization in the U.S.

How long does the EB-4 visa process take?

Processing times vary based on your category, location, and case complexity. The USCIS aims to process SIJ petitions (Form I-360) within 180 days, but delays are possible. Consulting an EB-4 visa attorney can help streamline the process.

Can dependents apply with the principal applicant?

Yes, spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for green cards alongside the principal applicant.

Why do I need an EB-4 visa lawyer?

Immigration laws are complex, and even minor errors can cause significant setbacks. A skilled attorney ensures your case is handled correctly, increasing your chances of success.

Take the First Step Toward Your EB-4 Green Card

The road to securing an EB-4 visa may seem daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At the Law Office of Nathan Earwood, we are here to guide you through this challenging time with compassion, clarity, and unmatched expertise.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation—virtual, in-office, or by phone—and let us help you navigate the path to permanent residency. Call us at (828) 354-4300 or fill out our online consultation form to get started.

Let us help you turn uncertainty into confidence and achieve the stability you deserve.

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