⚠️ Immigration data changes frequently. Processing times and visa availability vary. Consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Most Common Visa Paths for China Nationals
Backlog & Wait Times for China
Priority Date Backlog
Significant
Per-country EB limits cause multi-decade waits. Strong in EB-1A extraordinary ability category. EB-5 historically popular.
Visa Bulletin Priority Dates — China
| Category | Chargeability | Final Action Date | Filing Date | Bulletin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EB-1 | China-mainland born | C | C | March 2026 |
| EB-2 | China-mainland born | 01JAN2020 | 01FEB2020 | March 2026 |
| EB-3 | China-mainland born | 01NOV2019 | 01JAN2020 | March 2026 |
| EB-5 Unreserved | China-mainland born | 01JAN2016 | 01FEB2016 | March 2026 |
| F-1 | China-mainland born | 01JAN2018 | 01MAR2018 | March 2026 |
| F-3 | China-mainland born | 01JAN2015 | 01MAR2015 | March 2026 |
| F-4 | China-mainland born | 01JAN2010 | 01MAR2010 | March 2026 |
| EB-1 | China-mainland born | C | C | January 2026 |
| EB-2 | China-mainland born | 01OCT2019 | 01DEC2019 | January 2026 |
| EB-3 | China-mainland born | 01SEP2019 | 01NOV2019 | January 2026 |
| EB-1 | China-mainland born | C | C | February 2026 |
| EB-2 | China-mainland born | 01NOV2019 | 01JAN2020 | February 2026 |
| EB-3 | China-mainland born | 01OCT2019 | 01DEC2019 | February 2026 |
| EB-1 | China - mainland born | C | C | April 2026 2026 |
| EB-2 | China - mainland born | 2020-03-22 | 2020-11-01 | April 2026 2026 |
| EB-3 | China - mainland born | 2020-05-01 | 2020-08-01 | April 2026 2026 |
| EB-5 | China - mainland born | 2016-01-01 | 2016-04-01 | April 2026 2026 |
| F1 | China - mainland born | 2019-04-01 | 2019-07-01 | April 2026 2026 |
| F4 | China - mainland born | 2007-03-01 | 2007-06-01 | April 2026 2026 |
| EB-1 | China-mainland born | C | C | October 2025 |
Source: US Department of State Visa Bulletin. "Current" = no backlog.
H-1B Approval Rates (Most Popular)
| Year | Petitions Filed | Approval Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 320,000 | 8500.0% |
| 2024 | 460,000 | 9300.0% |
| 2024 | 780,000 | 1090.0% |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best visa for China nationals?
The most common visa paths for China nationals are: H-1B, EB-1A, EB-2 NIW, F-1, L-1. The best choice depends on your education, employer, and long-term goals.
How long is the green card wait for China nationals?
Green card wait times for China nationals vary: Significant. Per-country EB limits cause multi-decade waits. Strong in EB-1A extraordinary ability category. EB-5 historically popular.
Can China nationals apply for H-1B?
Yes, China nationals can apply for H-1B visas through employer sponsorship. The annual lottery (85,000 cap) applies to all nationalities equally. There is no per-country limit for H-1B nonimmigrant status.