EB-2 (NIW) for South Korean Nationals

Visa Bulletin Advancement: EB-2 Rest of World (2026-03)

The Department of State advanced the EB-2 Final Action Date for Rest of World chargeability from 2024-04-01 to 2024-10-15 in the 2026-03 bulletin. This may allow additional applicants to proceed with their petitions.

As a VWP member, South Korea is a primary target for the reciprocal data-sharing agreements outlined in Section 3. EB-2 applicants from South Korea may find that their domestic criminal histories are more transparently and rapidly shared with DHS, increasing the risk of denial for even minor prior offenses.

South Korean nationals are frequent users of the EB-2 category, particularly in STEM fields. The fee increase impacts their ability to quickly secure I-140 approvals, which is often a prerequisite for long-term career planning in the U.S.

The investigation in Minnesota will likely cause a ripple effect across USCIS service centers, leading to longer adjudication timelines for South Korean nationals. Applicants should expect more detailed inquiries regarding their qualifications and the necessity of their roles.