Vietnam
Hong Kong
TaiwanWhat is premium processing?
For an extra fee, USCIS decides the I-140 within a set time (approval, request for evidence or denial):
| Category | Premium processing time |
|---|---|
| EB-1A | About 15 working days |
| EB-2 NIW | About 45 working days |
| EB-2/EB-3 (employer-sponsored) | Available under the rules |
What it doesn’t speed up
Premium processing only applies to the I-140 stage. The green card still waits for the visa backlog by place of birth and category.
When is it worth it?
| Situation | Why |
|---|---|
| You need the result quickly | To decide your next step |
| A child is close to 21 | To plan around CSPA |
| Your current visa is expiring | To confirm your route quickly |
| Adjustment of status is possible | To move forward once your date is current |
If you receive a request for evidence
Reply by the deadline, answering each point with strong evidence. For premium cases, USCIS again decides within the set time after your reply.
Preventing requests
A complete, well-organised filing reduces requests for evidence. Recommendation letters should describe specific contributions and impact, and map to the criteria.