A new bipartisan immigration bill introduced in Congress — the Dignity Act of 2025 (H.R. 4393) — could offer relief to immigrants who have been stuck in the green card backlog for over a decade. If passed, the bill would allow certain applicants to pay a $20,000 premium fee to fast-track their green card applications and bypass the years-long wait many have endured.
This proposal, while still under review in Congress, could reshape the immigration system for both family- and employment-based applicants.
What’s Being Proposed?
The Dignity Act of 2025 would create an optional fast-track program for green card applicants who have been waiting for 10 years or more.
Key features of the proposal:
- $20,000 premium processing fee for green card issuance
- Eligibility for those with 10+ years in the backlog
- Goal to eliminate the green card backlog by 2035
- Raise per-country limits from 7% to 15% for both family- and employment-based categories
- Optional — applicants can choose to remain in the standard queue
This is a separate program from current premium processing services, which only expedite review of petitions like the I-140 or I-129 but do not bypass visa caps or priority date backlogs.
Why Does This Matter?
Applicants from high-demand countries such as India and China often experience significantly longer wait times due to annual limits on green card issuance by country. For many, the wait is not just frustrating but life-altering.
- Career restrictions: H-1B visa holders often face limits on promotions, job changes, or mobility
- Family impact: Children may age out of dependent status before their parents receive green cards
- Uncertainty and stress: Families remain in limbo without permanent residency
This bill aims to address those concerns by offering an alternative — for those who can and wish to pay — while also improving the system overall through cap reform.
How Would It Work?
Applicants eligible under the bill’s proposed criteria would:
- Submit a request for the premium green card processing
- Pay a $20,000 fee per application
- Bypass visa bulletin queues and receive their green cards significantly faster
The premium fee revenue may help USCIS fund system improvements and expand capacity, which could benefit others in the long term.
Who Might Benefit?
This proposal could be especially helpful to:
- Indian professionals in the EB-2 or EB-3 categories who have waited over 10 years
- Family-sponsored applicants from high-demand countries
- Spouses and children facing long delays in joining their family members in the U.S.
- Employers looking to retain long-time workers with increased stability and flexibility
Potential Concerns and Considerations
While the proposal offers promise, it’s not without criticism:
- Some believe it favors wealthier applicants who can afford the $20,000 fee
- Others question how fairly and effectively the fast-lane program could be implemented
- The bill’s success hinges on Congressional approval and how USCIS structures the premium pathway
Nonetheless, for applicants who have already waited a decade or more, it could represent a long-awaited opportunity to move forward.
Final Thoughts from NPZ
The Dignity Act of 2025 is still making its way through Congress. If passed, it may provide a powerful new option for those facing lengthy green card delays. However, it’s critical to evaluate your personal situation — including eligibility, timing, and financial ability — before considering this route.
At NPZ Law Group, we are closely monitoring developments around this legislation and are available to help clients assess their options. Whether you’re stuck in the backlog or just starting your immigration journey, our team is here to guide you through every step.
FAQs
Q: Is the $20,000 fast-lane green card program available now?
A: No. It is part of a proposed bill (Dignity Act of 2025) and has not been signed into law yet.
Q: Will I be eligible if I’ve only waited 5 or 6 years?
A: The proposed eligibility is for those who have been in the green card queue for 10+ years.
Q: Does this replace regular premium processing?
A: No. This is a separate, optional route that goes beyond speeding up petition review — it targets actual green card issuance.
Q: Can I choose not to pay and still stay in the queue?
A: Yes. The fast-lane option is optional. You can remain in the standard processing path without paying the premium fee.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.