Last updated 11 November 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Visa for employees and former employees of the U.S. government abroad SE1 in USA for Russians
U.S. government employees and former employees visa for overseas service, EB4 visa, Fourth priority visa, Certain special immigrants visa
Visa for employees and former employees of the U.S. government abroad — what you need to know
Certain employees or former employees of the U.S. Government abroad can immigrate to the U.S. on an SE1 visa, continuing their service and gaining permanent residency. This visa provides access to work, education, and healthcare, and a pathway to citizenship, supporting their professional and personal growth in the U.S.
At least 15 years of faithful service to the U.S. government abroad is required; length of service alone is not sufficient for approval
A recommendation from the head of the relevant diplomatic mission and approval by the Department of State are required, taking into account exceptional circumstances and U.S. national interests
The DS-1884 petition is filed directly with the U.S. consulate (Foreign Service post), not with USCIS
Form DS-1884 is used, not the standard I-360 petition; it must be filed within one year after the recommendation is approved
As a general rule, employment with the U.S. government abroad must be terminated no later than departure for permanent residence in the United States
The employer is not required to obtain PERM labor certification
After receiving the Green Card, the standard path to naturalization opens after 5 years
It is possible to relocate with a spouse and unmarried children under 21; the spouse also receives the right to work
No new job offer in the U.S. is required
Eligible individuals:
- Employee
- Former employee of the U.S. government
How does this visa work?
Don’t postpone the application
The visa is processed from 1 year to 1 year 6 months. Many people contact us 3–5 days before their trip, so start the process in advance
How can you prove the basis for the visa?
They clarify the purpose of the visit and future activities in the country
What must be prepared?
Basic package — always required, regardless of the application conditions
What additional documents may be required?
Documents required vary depending on individual circumstances, specific visa conditions, the place, and the method of application.
*Foreign official documents must be apostilled and legalized in accordance with the regulations of the country whose consular or diplomatic mission they are being submitted to. Additionally, they must be accompanied by a certified translation into the official language of that country or into English, unless otherwise specified by the mission's requirements.
**Prior to submitting the documents, it is strongly advised to verify the specific procedures and requirements with the relevant mission.
Are you eligible for this visa?
Clear purposes of the visit and documents confirming them, in accordance with the visa conditions.
The applicant does not pose a threat to public order, internal security, public health or international relations of the country.
Valid permanent resident status or proof thereof; all preliminary procedures for visa application have been completed.
Official visa information
English international
Type of visa
Immigrant visa
Category
Work immigrant visas