It is important to understand that the category - EB2 vs. EB3 does not really affect processing times in the first two stages (Labor Certification and Immigrant Petition). In simple layperson terms, a priority date is set for an application when the Labor Application is filed (date of filing). The final stage, or application to adjust status may be filed only when the priority date becomes ‘available’ based on the Visa Bulletin. The ‘availability’ of immigrant numbers as per the Visa Bulletin, in fact, determines how long one would have to wait to become a permanent resident.

Traditionally, the EB2 category has progressed more quickly than the EB3 category.