As a significant gathering place for global talents and capital, the United States has consistently ranked among the top of the global immigration intention list, thanks to its top-notch educational resources, diverse economic ecosystem, complete security system and inclusive cultural atmosphere. For families and individuals pursuing career breakthroughs, quality education or life upgrades, the United States is not only a land full of opportunities, but also a stage that can accommodate diverse dreams.
The latest immigration policy for 2025: Clear path and definite focus
Although the US immigration policy is complex and changeable, the adjustment direction in 2025 has already shown a distinct feature of "talent priority and regional balance", and applicants from different backgrounds can all find suitable paths.
1. Employment-based immigration: New opportunities for STEM talents and investors
Employment-based immigration (EB category) is the main choice for skilled talents and entrepreneurs. In 2025, the policy focus will be tilted towards high-end talents and specific fields
EB-1 Outstanding Talent Immigration: Targeting Nobel laureates, top industry experts, etc. In 2025, the recognition of academic fields will be significantly relaxed. Outstanding researchers in cutting-edge disciplines such as AI and quantum computing can apply more conveniently and directly obtain a green card without an employer's sponsorship.
EB-2/EB-3 Skilled Migration: Employer sponsorship is required. STEM professionals and "green technology" positions enjoy an accelerated approval process. Among them, doctoral graduates can directly apply for the EB-2 category, significantly reducing the waiting period.
EB-5 investment immigration: The minimum investment amount varies by region. It is $800,000 for rural areas and high-unemployment areas, and $1.05 million for ordinary areas. The quota for rural projects will increase by 30% in 2025. However, be vigilant against the risk of fraud by regional centers. It is recommended to screen projects through formal institutions.
2. Family Reunion and other paths: Kinship connection and special channels
In family reunification immigration, there is no quota limit for direct relatives such as spouses, parents, and minor children, and the application process is relatively convenient. However, the waiting period for collateral relatives such as siblings can be as long as 10 to 15 years, and the application fee will increase by 12% in 2025. Therefore, it is necessary to plan ahead. The Diversity Visa (DV Lottery) offers 55,000 spots each year, but it may face reform in 2025 due to political disputes. Currently, those born in China are not eligible to participate.
It is worth noting that as a transitional path, the electronic registration fee for the H-1B visa will increase to $250 in 2025, with the winning rate remaining at 14%. However, a "salary distribution" mechanism will be adopted, giving priority to high-paying positions such as Silicon Valley engineers, and increasing the difficulty of entry-level positions.
3. New policy Trends: Dual Upgrades in rural immigration and financial review
To alleviate the resource pressure on big cities, the immigration authorities encourage applicants to settle in rural areas such as Alaska and Wyoming, offering "unpopular state" benefits such as housing subsidies and tax breaks. At the same time, in 2025, visa reviews will become stricter, with new assessments of applicants' health conditions (such as obesity, hypertension and other chronic diseases) and financial capabilities. Bank accounts and asset certificates will become essential materials, and the policy logic will tilt towards "avoiding reliance on public welfare".
4. 2026 Baiying - US Immigration Program (Click the red text for detailed information)