Last updated 11 November 2026, 00:00 (UTC+0)
Visa for certain international broadcasters BC1 USA
Visa for designated international broadcasters, EB4 visa, Fourth priority visa, Certain special immigrants visa
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Citizenship
Visa for certain international broadcasters — what you need to know
Certain international broadcasters working for foreign news organizations can immigrate to the U.S. on a BC1 visa, contributing to the media landscape 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.
Intended for work at the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) or organizations receiving its grants; employment at any other media outlet does not qualify on its own
The applicant must work as a broadcaster (reporter, editor, producer, translator, announcer), not as technical or support staff
Form I-360 is filed by USAGM itself or by its grantee on behalf of the candidate
Process: USAGM (or grantee) files I-360 → I-360 approval → I-485 filing (in the U.S.) or consular processing → Green Card
A separate cap applies to principal applicants — no more than 100 visas per fiscal year
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
Eligible individuals:
- International broadcaster
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