More than a Century wait time for US Green Card Processing

134-year wait time for 1.07 million Indians in US Green Card card processing

As per new analysis by libertarian think tank the Cato Institute, The US Green Card backlog has become a growing concern for 1.07 million Indians who are eagerly waiting for their applications to be processed. The wait time has reached an astounding 134 years, leaving many in a state of uncertainty and frustration. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this backlog, its impact on the Indian community, and potential solutions to alleviate the situation. As an Indian IT professional myself, I understand the challenges faced by my fellow countrymen and the urgent need for reform in the US immigration system.

Understanding the US Green Card backlog

The annual quota of 140,000 employment-based visas and the 7% per-country limit imposed by the US government have resulted in a backlog of 1.8 million cases, 1.1 million of which are from India.

There was a backlog of 80 thousand employment-based applications in March 2023, with 171000+ petitioners, including spouses and minor children. Furthermore, 1.3 million persons were put on a waiting list, and 289,000 were in the process of changing their status. Although the State Department has not published the precise number of these cases, some immigrants who were coming for work were also waiting for their visas to be processed at foreign consulates and embassies. According to Cato, the backlog may have some overlap owing to multiple petitions filed on behalf of the same person.

Impact on the Indian community

The Green Card backlog has a profound impact on the Indian community, both in the United States and back home. For those waiting in the backlog, it creates a sense of uncertainty and instability in their lives. Many individuals have put their plans on hold, including purchasing homes or starting families, due to the uncertain future caused by the long wait time.

Furthermore, the backlog also has a significant impact on the families of these individuals. Children who are dependent on their parents' Green Card applications face the risk of aging out before their applications are processed. This means that they lose their eligibility to obtain a Green Card as dependents, resulting in a separate and often arduous immigration process.

Potential solutions for the Green Card backlog

Addressing the Green Card backlog requires comprehensive immigration reform. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, several measures can help alleviate the current situation. One possible approach is to increase the annual cap on employment-based Green Cards to match the demand for skilled workers. This would help reduce the backlog and provide relief to the thousands of individuals waiting for their applications to be processed.

Another solution is to streamline the Green Card application process, making it more efficient and less time-consuming. Simplifying the documentation requirements and expediting the review process could significantly reduce the backlog. Additionally, implementing a merit-based system that prioritizes individuals with high-demand skills and qualifications would ensure that the most deserving candidates are granted Green Cards in a timely manner.

Conclusion - The US Green Card backlog has created an unprecedented wait time of 134 years for 1.07 million Indians seeking permanent residency in the United States. This backlog not only affects the individuals directly impacted but also has far-reaching implications for their families and the Indian community as a whole. Urgent immigration reform is needed to address this issue and provide relief to those stuck in the backlog. By increasing the annual cap on employment-based Green Cards and streamlining the application process, we can ensure a fair and efficient system that meets the demands of the evolving job market. It is time to take action and bring an end to the 134-year wait time faced by our fellow Indians in the US Green Card processing.

CTA: If you are an Indian IT professional affected by the Green Card backlog or know someone who is, it is crucial to stay informed and advocate for reform. Follow Logrova for latest news and developments in US immigration policies and actively engage with organizations working towards immigration reform. Together, we can make a difference and bring about positive change for the Indian community.