USCIS Introduces 16 New Classes of Admission for the Gold Card Program

USCIS has announced the creation of 16 new Classes of Admission (COAs) for employment-based lawful permanent residents under the Gold Card Program. The new classifications apply to individuals who obtain permanent residence through the Gold Card Program, as well as their qualifying spouses and children, and distinguish between first- and second-preference employment-based categories, as well as immigrant visa issuance and adjustment of status.

In connection with this change, the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program has been updated to recognize these new classifications and verify Gold Card holders as lawful permanent residents authorized to work in the United States.

This announcement is primarily an administrative update to facilitate verification and processing of Gold Card beneficiaries and does not expand eligibility for the program itself.