1. How do I read the Visa Bulletin Chart?

The Visa Bulletin Chart is an official resource published by the U.S. Department of State, which shows the cut-off dates for when an individual can apply for a green card or a visa based on their country of birth. The chart is organized into two sections: the Final Action Dates chart and the Dates for Filing Applications chart. The Final Action Dates table shows the final dates when the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will accept applications from individuals based on their country of birth, and make a decision on their applications. The Dates for Filing Applications chart shows the earliest dates that individuals can submit applications for a green card or visa based on their country of birth, even though USCIS may not make a final decision on the applications until later dates. Both charts are updated monthly and are specific to each type of green card or visa.

2. What are the categories of visas listed on the Visa Bulletin Chart?

The categories of visas listed on the Visa Bulletin Chart include: Employment-Based (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3 and EB-4), Family-Sponsored (F1, F2A, F2B, F3 and F4), Diversity Program/DV Lottery (DV), Special Immigrants (SI), Iraqi/Afghan Translators (IQ/AF), and Other (Refugees/Asylees).

3. How do I identify the priority date for my visa classification?

The priority date for a visa classification can be found on the Approval Notice or the Visa Bulletin. For most employment-based visa categories, the priority date is the date when the labor certification application was filed with the Department of Labor (DOL). The priority date for family-based visa categories is usually the date when the immigrant petition was filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

4. What is an NVC processing timeline?

The National Visa Center (NVC) processing timeline varies depending on the type of visa for which an individual is applying. Depending on the visa category, processing times can range from two to nine months or longer. The processing times also vary depending on the country from which the applicant is applying and the volume of applications being processed at any given time.

5. How does an immigrant visa priority date affect the NVC processing timeline?

The priority date is the date that USCIS received your I-130 petition. Immigrant visa priority dates determine when immigrant visas become available to individuals. When the priority date is current, the NVC can begin processing the paperwork required to complete the visa petition. The availability of a visa number and the processing timeline for the NVC will depend on the priority date and the current visa number availability for that particular category.

6. What can cause delays in NVC processing?

Delays in NVC processing can be caused by incomplete or inaccurate application forms, missing required documents, a backlog of applications, and a lack of funding or staffing resources.

7. What documents do I need to submit to the NVC for processing?

The documents you need to submit to the NVC for processing depend on the type of immigrant visa that you are applying for. Generally, you will need to submit the following documents: an Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration (Form DS-260); a copy of the civil documents required for your visa category; a copy of the visa petition approved by USCIS; a copy of your birth certificate; and any other supporting evidence or documents required for your specific visa category.

8. What is a date of final action on the Visa Bulletin Chart?

A date of final action on the Visa Bulletin Chart is the date when the Department of State can make a final decision on a visa application. The date of final action is determined by the priority date on the visa petition that is filed with the Department of State.

9. What does it mean if my visa application is current on the Visa Bulletin Chart?

If your visa application is current on the Visa Bulletin Chart, it means that your priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed on the chart for your particular immigrant category. This means that USCIS is currently processing applications from individuals with priority dates earlier than yours. You may be eligible to apply for permanent residence.

10. What is a visa cutoff date?

A visa cutoff date is the date that the U.S. Department of State uses to determine when a person is eligible to file for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status based on their place in the preference system. This date changes each month, and determines when a person may begin the process of applying for lawful permanent residence in the United States.

11. How often does the Visa Bulletin Chart get updated?

The Visa Bulletin is updated on a monthly basis, usually around the 5th of each month.

12. How can I track the progress of my application at the NVC?

You can track the progress of your application using your NVC case number and the CEAC Status Check website, which can be found at https://ceac. state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx.

13. When will I receive my immigrant visa after the NVC processes my application?

The processing time varies depending on the particular case. Generally, if all the documents are in order, it can take about 2-3 months to receive your immigrant visa after NVC processes your application.

14. How will I know if there are any issues with my application during NVC processing?

The National Visa Center (NVC) will notify you by mail or email if there are any issues with your application. You can also check the status of your case online at https://ceac.state.gov/CEAC/.

15. What is a visa number and how do I get one?

A visa number is a unique identifier assigned to a non-citizen visa holder by the U.S. Department of State. Visa numbers are usually found on the visa itself, and can also be obtained from the issuing embassy or consulate.

16. Can I expedite my NVC processing timeline?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to expedite the NVC processing timeline. However, the National Visa Center does offer priority processing for certain visa categories and individuals that meet certain criteria. For example, those applying for certain humanitarian visa classifications or those that are victims of human trafficking may be eligible for expedited processing. Additionally, there are many steps that applicants can take to help ensure their applications are processed quickly, such as gathering all required documents and submitting them in a timely manner.

17. What is a diversity visa and how do I apply for one?

A diversity visa is a U.S. immigration program that awards 55,000 permanent resident visas each year to people from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. To apply for a diversity visa, you must first register online during the designated registration period. After you register, you will receive notification via email or snail mail of your entry being accepted into the lottery. Once you are selected, you must apply for your visa by providing evidence of your eligibility and submit the appropriate documents for processing.

18. How long does it take to complete NVC processing after submitting all of my documents?

It can take 6 to 12 months to complete NVC processing after the documents are submitted.

19. How do I get information about my visa status during the NVC processing stage?

You can obtain information about your visa status during the NVC processing stage by logging into the National Visa Center’s online portal at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/the-immigrant-visa-process/check-status.html. You will need to provide your case number, which you can obtain from the USCIS website.

20. What should I do if there are discrepancies in my application during NVC processing?

If you notice any discrepancies in your application during NVC processing, you should contact the National Visa Center immediately to discuss the issue and provide any supporting documentation that may be necessary. You may also want to consult an immigration lawyer to help guide you through the process.