O-1, EB-2 NIW, EB-5 and E-2 Visa Approval Rates: Latest Statistics

For professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors considering a move to the U.S., understanding visa approval trends is more than just a numbers game—it’s about making informed decisions that shape their future. Approval rates fluctuate due to policy changes, processing backlogs, and shifts in applicant profiles. By analyzing the latest data, applicants can gauge their chances and adjust their strategies accordingly.

This article presents the most up-to-date O-1, EB-2 NIW, and E-2 visa approval rates for 2024, offering a detailed comparison with past years. Using information from the U.S. Department of State and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), we break down what these numbers mean and how they could impact future applicants.

Each visa category serves a distinct purpose:

• O-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like science, business, and the arts.
• EB-2 NIW Visa: For professionals seeking permanent residence through a National Interest Waiver, allowing them to bypass employer sponsorship.
• E-2 Visa: For investors and entrepreneurs looking to run businesses in the U.S. under a treaty-based agreement.

This data-driven breakdown will help applicants understand approval trends, potential challenges, and key takeaways for the year ahead.

How Visa Approval Rates Are Calculated and Why They Matter

Unveiling the Methodology Behind the Numbers

The calculation of these rates follows a straightforward formula: approval rate equals approvals divided by the sum of approvals and denials. For the E-2 Visa, our analysis drew from the latest reports issued by the State Department, specifically the 'Nonimmigrant Worldwide issuance and refusal data'. Applying the formula, we deciphered the approval rates for this visa category.

Turning our attention to the EB-2 NIW, we meticulously gathered data from the most recent report by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). By consolidating all reported cases of NIW approvals and denials, we applied the same formula to unveil the approval rates within this classification.

Our review of O Visa approvals took a step-by-step approach, starting with data from USCIS to assess the initial application stage, followed by an analysis of approval rates during the second phase—processing at U.S. consulates.

We analyzed the latest Immigration report from USCIS, Nonimmigrant Visa Statistics from the U.S. Department of State, and the STEM-Related Petition Trends report, to examine approval rates among STEM professionals and other applicants. This provided a clear overview of O-1A Visa approval trends across different groups.

EB-2 NIW Visa Approval Trends: What Latest Data Tells Us

The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) visa continues to be a sought-after path for professionals looking to secure U.S. permanent residency without employer sponsorship. This category is especially popular among STEM professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled workers whose contributions benefit the country.

However, the latest numbers reveal a shift in approval trends that applicants should consider before applying.

In 2024, the EB-2 NIW approval rate stands at 71%, holding steady from 2023 but lower than in previous years. While the percentage of approvals has dipped from the 78% recorded in 2022 and the 86% in 2021, the total number of approved cases has increased.

This suggests that more individuals are applying under this category, leading to greater competition and potentially stricter evaluation criteria by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Given the rising number of applications and the slight decline in approval rates, submitting a well-prepared petition with clear, compelling evidence is more important than ever.

A notable factor influencing approval rates is the growing backlog of EB-2 NIW applications. USCIS has been working through a high volume of pending cases, which can sometimes lead to delays and shifts in approval percentages.

Additionally, policy updates and adjudication trends can affect outcomes, making it essential for applicants to stay informed and adjust their application strategy accordingly.

For those considering applying under the EB-2 NIW category in 2024, the key takeaways are clear:

• The overall approval rate has remained stable at 71%, but competition has increased.
• STEM applicants continue to have an advantage, while non-STEM applicants face more scrutiny.
• Providing detailed evidence of national interest is critical to securing approval.
• Understanding USCIS processing trends and backlogs can help applicants set realistic expectations.

This data is sourced from official USCIS reports on EB-2 NIW approvals, which can be reviewed in full at USCIS Data Reports.

What Drives the Varied Trajectories of STEM and Non-STEM Job Types?

But, what if we focus on the approval rates of the STEM and Non-STEM job types within the realm of EB-2 NIW petitions? The story unfolds with intriguing nuances as we dissect the data.

In 2021, STEM job types, encompassing professions such as software engineers, biomedical researchers, and data scientists, exhibited a remarkable approval rate of 93%, signaling a favorable trend. This positive trajectory continued into 2022 with an impressive surge to 95%.

Yet, in 2023, a subtle downturn occurred, as the approval rate dipped to 91%, urging a closer examination of the underlying dynamics shaping the visa approval landscape for these critical occupations.

On the flip side, the narrative for Non-STEM job types presents a distinct trajectory. Commencing at 71% in 2021, there was an upward shift to 81% in 2022, reflecting a positive trend.

However, the course shifted unexpectedly in 2023, witnessing a sharp downturn to 66%. This decline prompts a closer examination of the factors influencing the approval rates for Non-STEM occupations.

O Visa Category Approval Trends: A Reliable Path for Highly Skilled Professionals

While the EB-2 NIW approval rate has seen some fluctuations, the O visa (O-1 and O-2) category remains one of the most consistently approved categories for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, business, athletics, and the arts.

The latest figures for 2024 reaffirm this trend, showing that the O visa continues to offer strong approval chances for qualified applicants.

According to USCIS data, the petition approval rate for O visas in 2024 stands at 95%, a slight increase from previous years.

However, it is essential to note that securing an approved petition from USCIS is only the first step. Once a petition is approved, applicants must go through consular processing if they are applying from outside the U.S. When considering this second stage, the final approval rate drops slightly, reaching 89% for 2024.

Even with this dip, the overall approval rate for O visas remains strong, reinforcing its reputation as a viable option for professionals with exceptional skills and achievements. This consistency in approval rates suggests that, compared to other visa categories, the O-1 visa may be less affected by policy shifts or processing backlogs.

One reason for the O visa’s high approval rate is that eligibility requirements are clearly defined.

USCIS evaluates applications based on specific criteria such as awards, publications, leadership roles, and industry recognition. Applicants who provide well-documented evidence of their expertise and influence in their field tend to secure approvals more easily.

For individuals considering this visa, the data highlights a few important factors:

• Approval rates remain consistently high, reinforcing the O visa’s reliability.
• Securing an approved petition from USCIS is a strong indicator of success, but consular processing can slightly reduce final approval rates.
• Applicants with strong documentation demonstrating extraordinary ability continue to have high chances of approval.

These insights are based on official data from USCIS and the U.S. Department of State, which can be reviewed in detail through their respective reports at USCIS Data Reports and Visa Statistics Reports.

O-1A Visa Approval Rates for STEM Professionals | Phase 1 Analysis

Focusing on the intricate landscape of O-1A Visa approvals, it's essential to understand that this visa undergoes a two-phase approval process, with the initial phase overseen by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

For this analysis, we specifically examine the approval rates during this crucial first phase. Drawing insights from the "STEM-Related Petition Trends" report, the numbers reveal a compelling story.?

In 2021, the O-1A Visa approval rate stood impressively high at 91%, resulting in 7,320 approvals. The subsequent year witnessed a notable increase, with the approval rate reaching 94% and 9,120 approvals. Despite a slight dip in 2023, where the approval rate was 92%, the absolute number of approvals soared to 9,490.

This remarkable consistency in high approval rates underscores the strength of this visa category, positioning it as an attractive avenue for individuals with extraordinary abilities and achievements in their respective fields.

E-2 Visa Approval Trends: Stability in a Changing Landscape

While approval rates for other visa categories have shown fluctuations, the E-2 visa continues to demonstrate consistency, making it a reliable choice for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or expand their businesses in the U.S.

The most recent figures for 2024 reflect this trend, with a 90% approval rate, maintaining a steady pattern from previous years.

Compared to 2023, when the E-2 visa approval rate was 91%, the slight drop does not indicate a significant change in adjudication trends. Instead, approval rates have consistently remained within a stable range.

Looking further back, the E-2 approval rate was 90% in 2022, 93% in 2021, and 88% in 2020, reinforcing its reputation as a visa category that sees minimal disruptions, even during policy changes or processing shifts.

This stability can be attributed to the treaty-based nature of the E-2 visa, meaning it is available only to nationals of countries with an investment treaty agreement with the U.S. Because this visa is specifically designed for foreign entrepreneurs investing in U.S. businesses, applicants who meet the eligibility criteria and provide clear financial documentation generally see high approval chances.

For those considering the E-2 visa in 2024, the latest data suggests that:

• Approval rates remain high, reinforcing the E-2 visa as a strong option for investors and entrepreneurs.
• Applicants with well-documented business plans and financial records continue to secure approvals.
• The treaty-based nature of the E-2 visa contributes to its consistency, making it less subject to sudden policy shifts.

This information is based on official U.S. Department of State visa data, available for review at Visa Statistics Reports.

While the E-2 visa maintains its reliability, the EB-5 visa category has seen a notable shift in approval rates in 2024. The next section will explore what these changes mean for investors seeking permanent residency in the U.S. through the EB-5 program.

EB-5 Visa Approval Trends: A Significant Shift in 2024

While the E-2 visa has remained stable, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has experienced notable fluctuations in approval rates over the past few years. Designed for individuals investing a substantial amount in U.S. businesses that create jobs, the EB-5 visa is a direct route to permanent residency. However, recent data from USCIS indicates that approval trends for this visa have shifted significantly in 2024.

The approval rate for EB-5 visas in 2024 stands at 75%, marking a strong improvement from 61% in 2023.

This increase suggests that more applications are meeting USCIS requirements, possibly due to policy adjustments or clearer adjudication standards. However, the approval rate remains lower than in years like 2017 and 2018, when it reached above 90%.

One of the biggest factors influencing these trends is the changing regulatory landscape for EB-5 investments.

Over the past few years, adjustments to investment minimums, targeted employment area (TEA) designations, and processing backlogs have played a role in both declines and rebounds in approval rates.

Another important element is the increase in total applications. While approval rates rose in 2024, competition has also intensified, meaning that USCIS continues to apply strict scrutiny to source-of-funds documentation and job creation requirements.

Applicants who fail to provide clear, well-documented financial records or a compliant business model may still face challenges in securing approval.

For investors considering the EB-5 visa in 2024, the key takeaways are:

• Approval rates have improved from 2023 but are still lower than in peak years.
• Applications with strong financial documentation and clear compliance with investment requirements have a higher chance of success.
• Regulatory changes continue to influence adjudication trends, making it crucial for applicants to stay informed about policy updates.

This data is sourced from USCIS reports on EB-5 approval trends, which can be reviewed in full at USCIS Data Reports.

How Can we Help You?

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We have meticulously designed three distinct processes to facilitate a smoother transition to the U.S., with the overarching goal of ensuring personal and business success in the initial years. For the EB-2 NIW, we offer expert assistance in formulating your U.S. endeavor, whether through entrepreneurship or employment.?

In the case of the O-1 Visa, we step in as your sponsor or business manager, providing a unique level of flexibility for managing your U.S. work endeavors, offering an alternative to being tied down to a single employer.

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Our rigorous due diligence standards ensure that less than 2% of businesses meet our criteria, significantly elevating our clients' chances of success compared to industry averages.

Remarkably, our visa approval rate stands at an impressive +95% for clients willing to apply a second time if necessary, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to realizing your American dream. If you're eager to explore each of the tailored solutions we have to offer, don't hesitate! Visit our website now by clicking here.?

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What These Approval Trends Mean for Visa Applicants

The shifts in approval rates across different visa categories highlight the evolving landscape of U.S. immigration.

While some visas, like the O-1 and E-2, have maintained strong approval rates, others, such as the EB-2 NIW and EB-5, have seen more fluctuation. For applicants, these numbers are more than just statistics—they provide a realistic outlook on the challenges and opportunities in securing a U.S. visa.

For professionals seeking permanent residency through the EB-2 NIW, the steady 71% approval rate in 2024 indicates that while competition is increasing, success remains achievable.

STEM applicants, in particular, continue to see higher approval rates, while non-STEM professionals may need to present a stronger case for national interest. Given the slight decline in approvals over the past few years, applicants should ensure their petitions are well-documented and demonstrate clear contributions to the U.S. economy or research sectors.

The O-1 visa remains one of the most reliable options for highly skilled professionals, with a 95% USCIS petition approval rate in 2024.

However, consular processing can slightly reduce final approval chances, emphasizing the importance of strong documentation at both the petition and visa interview stages. For those with extraordinary achievements in science, business, or the arts, this visa continues to be a viable and stable pathway to working in the U.S.

For investors and entrepreneurs, the E-2 visa continues to provide strong approval chances, with a 90% approval rate in 2024.

This consistency reflects the structured nature of this visa category, where well-prepared applications with detailed business plans and financial transparency typically receive approvals. Applicants from treaty countries can continue to rely on this visa as a practical way to establish and run businesses in the U.S.

Meanwhile, the EB-5 visa has seen a notable recovery in 2024, with approval rates rising from 61% in 2023 to 75% this year.

This increase suggests more investors are successfully meeting USCIS criteria, likely due to greater clarity on investment requirements and job creation rules.

However, given the historically stricter scrutiny on financial documentation and compliance, EB-5 applicants should work closely with legal and financial experts to ensure their applications align with regulatory expectations.

These trends indicate that while success is achievable across all visa categories, applicants need to be strategic in their approach. Whether applying under the EB-2 NIW, O-1, E-2, or EB-5 visa, the most important factors for approval include:

• Presenting clear, well-documented evidence that meets USCIS and consular processing standards.
• Understanding recent policy trends and how they may affect adjudication decisions.
• Seeking expert guidance where necessary to strengthen applications.

As you consider your next steps, one question remains: Are you ready to make your U.S. immigration plans a reality?