The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) 2022 fiscal year ends on September 30. This is necessary information for individuals who have applied for an employment-based visa and have not heard back yet or end up not hearing from USCIS by that date. Below, the immigration team at Murray Osorio PLLC explains what immigrants can do if they are applying for an employment-based visa and have not heard anything recently about their application.
Employment-Based Visas Backlog
COVID-19 has severely impacted the processing time of employment-based visas being promptly distributed. In 2021, this backlog resulted in over 66,000 employment-based green cards being wasted.
For the 2022 fiscal year, an estimated 280,000 employment-based green cards were made eligible for distribution. That’s an increase of 18,000 compared to 2021.
While the USCIS works to reduce its backlog, many people are still waiting for their green cards. The Department of State (DOS) estimates that around 100,000 employment-based green cards are still waiting to be distributed before September 30.
What Can Applicants Do?
USCIS urges patience as it continues to work through the backlog of employment-based visa applications. But, understandably, many are frustrated about the timeliness of the process.
Applicants who are waiting for the results of their green card application can check the status of their application online. USCIS also provides regular updates on its progress in reducing the employment-based visa backlog.
If you have questions about employment-based visas or the green card distribution process, contact the experienced immigration attorneys at Murray Osorio PLLC. Our full-service immigration law firm can help you with all aspects of your employment-based visa application.
We understand the importance of getting your green card in a timely manner, and we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. (800) 929-7142