Published: May 11, 2023
What is a visa bulletin?
Visa bulletin is a publication by the US Department of State. It reflects the updated wait list for immigrants subject to the quota system. It is also popularly known as the priority date. Once your priority date is due, you may receive a visa and file for an adjustment of status.
How many immigrant visas are available each year?
Each category has an annual visa limit. The limit for family-sponsored visas is 226,000 while the employment-based visas should not exceed 140,000. Also, immigration laws prohibit visa issuances to nationals of any single country from exceeding 7% per fiscal year.
Important Keywords in a Visa Bulletin
Priority date: It refers to the date when USCIS received your application. You may find it once your application is approved.
Current: It means no wait time exists for a specific category and country. There are visas ready to be issued.
Cut-off date: It is the date displayed on visa bulletins. Only applicants with priority dates prior to their cut-off dates may submit a visa application.
Summary of Dates for Visa Filing (May 2023)
Family-based visas:
- First preference: December 15, 2014
- Second preference (A): September 8, 2020
- Second preference (B): September 22, 2015
- Third preference: December 8, 2008
- Fourth preference: April 8, 2007
Employment-based visas:
- EB-1: CURRENT
- EB-2: February 15, 2022
- EB-3: June 1, 2022
- Other workers: January 1, 2020
- EB-4: September 1, 2018
- Certain religious workers: September 1, 2018
Note that dates for China, India, Mexico, and Philippines differ due to the bulk of visa applicants. Please consult an immigration lawyer at ALG Lawyers if you came from these countries.
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(Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers. Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from a qualified attorney based on their individual circumstances. Thank you.)