Does the EB-3 have a shorter backlog than the EB-1?

Generally, no. The EB-3 tends to have a longer wait than the EB-1, not a shorter one. Because EB-1 is a higher preference category aimed at more selective profiles, demand tends to be lower, which typically results in shorter backlogs. That said, this is not a fixed rule.

The length of the backlog for each category depends on factors that change over time:

• Demand for that category, which fluctuates from period to period.
• The applicant’s country of birth, since per-country limits apply.
• The priority date of your petition.

As a result, depending on the moment and your specific situation, the difference between EB-3 and EB-1 can be large or small. Wait times and cutoff dates are published periodically in the Visa Bulletin, issued by the U.S. Department of State, which is the source to follow for the current picture.

Since these timelines change frequently, it is worth consulting the Visa Bulletin and reviewing your case with a specialist before settling on your strategy.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.