A tale of two doctors: how EB works without equity.

Fereshteh and Deepa started as physicians at the same hospital in July 2012. They quickly grow close because both of their sons are 9 at the time. Their hospital goes through the PERM Labor Certification process for them. 1/

When the PERMs are approved, the hospital files I-140s for both of them in July 2013, but Fereshteh and her family are also able to file for their Greencards at that time. In July 2014, Fereshteh and her family get their Greencards. Deepa is still on her H-1B. 2/

A few years later, Fereshteh decides to open her own medical practice and would like her colleague Deepa to join her, but Deepa doesn’t want to have to go through the PERM process again nor have to deal with the difficulties of an H-1B for a new entity. 3/

In May 2019, Fereshteh and her family apply for citizenship and are approved in January 2020. Deepa is on her 3rd H-1B with the hospital. Fereshteh and her husband petition for Greencards for both sets of parents. 4/

In November 2020, Fereshteh and her family vote for the first time. Also that month, both sons start applying for colleges – Fereshteh’s son has access to scholarships and financial aid as a U.S. citizen. Deepa’s son does not. 5/

In June 2021, the parents all get their Greencards and join their children and grandchildren in the U.S. Deepa and her family get stuck in India in administrative review after applying for H visa stamps. They return just in time for her son to go off to college. 6/

In April 2026, Fereshteh’s parents and in-laws apply for their citizenship. There is additional happy news as Fereshteh’s son is getting married that spring. Deepa’s son is the Best Man. 7/

However, he had to change to an F-1 visa after he turned 21 and is on OPT only until June 2026 and will have to depart the U.S. shortly after the wedding because his H-1B Lottery petition was not selected. 8/

Maybe Deepa’s daughter, 4 years her brother’s junior, might be able to get for her Greencard before she ages out. Promising! The April 2026 Visa Bulletin is showing EB2 India finally at August 2012! *smirk* 9/

By end of 2026 - Deepa will be on her 5th H-1B with this hospital while Fereshteh's family, including her parents and inlaws are US citizens. 10/end