USCIS FY2025 Q4 Approval Rates: EB-1A Drops to 53.4%, EB-2 NIW to 35.7%

USCIS has released the long-awaited fourth quarter data for Fiscal Year 2025, revealing a notable downward trend in approval rates for several employment-based visa categories. The data, originally anticipated in January, shows approval rates for O-1, EB-1A, and EB-2 NIW petitions across the full fiscal year. For Q4 FY2025 specifically, the O-1 visa maintained relative stability at a 92.7% approval rate. However, the EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) category saw its approval rate fall sharply to 53.4%, and the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) dropped significantly to 35.7% — its lowest point in the reported data. Looking at the full FY2025 picture, the O-1 held a strong annual approval rate of 93.9%. The EB-1A averaged 66.9% for the year, while the EB-2 NIW averaged 55.2%. Both categories saw consistent quarter-over-quarter declines from Q1 through Q4, suggesting increasing scrutiny in adjudications over the course of the fiscal year. While this data does not directly cover EB-3 petitions, the trend of tightening adjudication standards across employment-based categories is relevant context for EB-3 applicants and their attorneys. Applicants in higher-preference categories who were denied may shift to EB-3 pathways, and broader USCIS adjudication patterns often signal policy priorities that can affect all employment-based categories. This data was posted by Manifest Law on Reddit as general informational content. Individuals seeking advice on how these trends may affect their specific cases should consult a licensed immigration attorney.