Introduction to EB2 and EB3 Backlogs for Indian Applicants
For Indian immigrants seeking employment-based permanent residency in the United States, the EB2 (Second Preference) and EB3 (Third Preference) categories have long been subject to significant backlogs. This article delves into recent trends and the factors influencing these backlogs, providing a clear understanding of the current environment and potential future changes.
Current Trends in EB2 and EB3 Backlogs
As of the information available up to August 2023, the EB3 category has indeed shown periods of faster movement compared to EB2. This phenomenon is driven by a combination of demand and supply dynamics, policy changes, and per-country limits that significantly impact visa availability.
Factors Influencing Backlog Movement
1. Demand and Supply: The number of applicants for EB2 and EB3 categories is a critical factor. High demand in EB2 due to the preference for advanced degrees and specialty occupations can cause longer processing times compared to EB3.
2. Policy Changes: Changes in immigration policy and regulations can affect the prioritization of visa categories. For instance, porting from EB3 to EB2 has been observed, which has influenced the backlog movement.
3. Per-Country Limits: Both EB2 and EB3 are subject to per-country limits, leading to fluctuations in wait times. These limits are designed to ensure fair distribution of visas, but they can also result in extended backlogs.
Porting from EB3 to EB2: A Factor Influencing Backlog Movement
One notable trend that has influenced the EB2 and EB3 backlog is the practice of porting from EB3 to EB2. This phenomenon has led to temporary reductions in EB3 backlogs, but it also highlights the competitive nature of immigration categories. The practice of porting raises questions about fairness, as some argue that if EB3 had the same opportunity to port to EB1, similar dynamics would be observed.
Future Prospects for EB3 Backlog Movement
Given the current trends, there is a possibility that EB3 could remain faster than EB2 for the next few years. The backlog movement is expected to be influenced by the visa filings from earlier years, particularly the backlog accumulated between 2009 and 2010. However, after 2010, the backlog is expected to stabilize or slow down significantly due to the high demand that is anticipated to persist.
Calculating Current Trends with USCIS Statistics
To gain a more precise understanding of the current trends, one can analyze the pending data from the USCIS for the Employment-Based I-485 applications. Specifically, the April 2018 report and the January 2018 report can provide valuable insights. By comparing the numbers of visas in backlog for EB2 and EB3, and considering earlier files for more accurate calculations, one can derive a clearer picture of the current trends.
It is important to note that while past trends can offer some indicators, the future is marked by uncertainty. Changes in immigration policy, economic conditions, and global demand for immigrant workers can all shape the future of visa categories.
For the most current information, it is advisable to regularly check the Visa Bulletin released by the U.S. Department of State. This bulletin provides the latest updates on visa availability and backlogs, helping Indian immigrants to stay informed about the status of their applications.
In conclusion, while the EB3 category has shown periodic faster movement compared to EB2, this trend is subject to change. Understanding the influencing factors and staying informed about the latest trends can help Indian immigrants navigate the complexities of the EB2 and EB3 backlog.