What are Preference Categories Under U.S. Immigration?
Each fiscal year, starting October 1st, the United States government makes a limited number of immigrant visas available. These visas are not issued randomly. Instead, they are distributed using a system that includes preference categories. This system helps prioritize who gets an immigrant visa and when. This blog explains what you need to know about each preference category . What is a Preference Category for Immigration? A preference category is a classification used in U.S. immigration to prioritize visa applicants based on criteria such as family relationships or employment qualifications. It is the government’s way of deciding who gets to move to the U.S. first when there are insufficient green cards. The preference system ranks eligibility and manages immigration flow. It ensures fairness and alignment with the country’s economic and humanitarian goals. The rules that define these categories are set by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) ...