1. What are the current Visa Bulletin trends?

The current trends in the Visa Bulletin are that new visas are becoming available to foreign nationals at a faster rate than they have been in recent years. Visas for family-sponsored immigrants are also becoming available more quickly, and the number of employment-based visas has significantly increased. Additionally, there have been changes to the Diversity Visa Lottery, which allows for more individuals from certain countries to be eligible for green cards. Finally, the Department of State continues to adjust the priority dates for certain categories, allowing some applicants to be processed under different criteria.

2. How is the visa bulletin determined each month?

The Department of State’s Visa Bulletin is determined each month based on the availability of immigrant visas and the number of applicants for those visas. The Visa Bulletin is published and updated on a monthly basis to communicate the current availability of immigrant visas by preference category and country. It also lists cut-off dates which are used to determine when an immigrant visa application can be processed. The cut-off dates are determined by the Department of State’s Visa Office based on demand for immigrant visas and the availability of numbers in each category.

3. What are the visa categories that are currently included in the Visa Bulletin?

The visa categories that are currently included in the Visa Bulletin are: Employment-Based (EB), Family-Based (FB), Diversity Visa Program (DV), Refugee/Asylee, and Other.

4. How do I check if my case is current for processing?

You can check the processing times for your case at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website. You can also contact your local USCIS office or call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 or 1-800-767-1833 (TTY).

5. What is the difference between the Final Action Dates and Dates for Filing Charts?

Final Action Dates are used to track when an applicant can expect to receive a final decision on their immigration application, while Dates for Filing Charts are used to determine when an individual can submit their application for adjudication. The Dates for Filing Charts are typically shorter than the Final Action Dates, as applicants must make sure that they meet all the eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.

6. How do family-based visa numbers become available?

Family-based visa numbers become available each month based on the “Priority Dates” listed in the Department of State (DOS) Visa Bulletin. The Priority Date is the date an immigrant visa petition, filed on behalf of an individual, is received by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Visa numbers are issued in the chronological order in which the petitions were filed; therefore, those with earlier priority dates are generally issued visas first.

7. How is the visa priority date determined?

The U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bulletin determines the visa priority date for each family-based and employment-based preference category. The priority date is the filing date of the application for an immigrant visa. It establishes the place in the queue for the beneficiary on the waitlist for an immigrant visa.

8. What factors influence the published visa bulletin cutoff dates?

The visa bulletin cutoff dates are influenced by the availability of immigrant visas, the number of applicants for a particular visa category, and the rate at which applicants are progressing through the immigration process. The Department of State also takes into account efforts to reduce existing backlogs, provide greater access to family-sponsored preferences, and avoid creating future backlogs. Additionally, they consider foreign state chargeability requirements, the preferences accorded to applicants from certain countries based on refugee status and family relationships, and other criteria.

9. How does one interpret and understand the visa bulletin charts?

The visa bulletin charts provide information about the availability of immigrant visas for different categories as per the current laws and regulations. It can be interpreted by understanding the categories for which visas are available, the priority dates, and the limits for each type of visa. It also explains what visa numbers are available in a certain month, and whether the visa numbers are current or backlogged. The visa bulletin is updated on a monthly basis and provides up-to-date information about the availability of visas.

10. How often is the visa bulletin published and where can one find this information?

The visa bulletin is published monthly by the U.S. Department of State, and can be found on the Department of State website. It is also posted on the USCIS website.

11. What happens when my priority date becomes current in the visa bulletin?

When your priority date becomes current in the visa bulletin, you may submit your immigrant visa application with the US Department of State (DOS). You will then be contacted by DOS for the appropriate documents and fees to complete the visa application process.

12. What do I need to do if my priority date appears on the visa bulletin?

If your priority date appears on the visa bulletin, you must submit an application with USCIS. Depending on your particular immigration situation, the application may be for an adjustment of status or for consular processing. You must also submit any supporting documents that may be required to complete the application.

13. Are there any exceptions to the visa bulletin deadlines for certain individuals or groups of people?

Yes, certain individuals or groups of people may be eligible for exceptions to the visa bulletin deadlines. For example, individuals with an approved I-140 petition may be eligible for an “EB-2 Advanced Degree Professional” or “EB-3 Other Skilled Worker” category. Additionally, certain family members of U.S. citizens may qualify for the “Immediate Relative” category.

14. Are there any restrictions on travel while my application is pending in NVC Processing?

No, there are no restrictions on travel while your application is pending in NVC processing. However, you should ensure that all required documentation is available to you at all times, and that you submit any additional documents promptly when requested by the NVC.

15. Is it possible to file an adjustment of status application with an expired priority date?

No, it is not possible to file an adjustment of status application with an expired priority date. The priority date must be current in order for an adjustment of status application to be filed.

16. Does NVC processing include a medical examination for all applicants?

No, only certain applicants will need to undergo a medical examination as part of their NVC processing. This includes those who are applying for certain immigrant visas, including family-based immigration and employment-based immigration.

17. What documents and information do I need to prepare for NVC Processing?

For NVC processing, you will need to provide documents such as a copy of the affidavit of support, birth certificates, marriage certificate (if applicable), proof of financial support, police certificates (if applicable), and a copy of your completed visa application form (DS-260). You will also need to provide the NVC with identification documents, such as a passport or driver’s license. Additionally, you may need to provide other documentation as requested by the NVC.

18. Are there any additional fees associated with NVC processing that must be paid before my green card can be issued?

Yes, once NVC processing has been completed, the beneficiary of the visa petition must pay a USCIS immigrant fee of $220. Additionally, if the beneficiary is applying for a Diversity Visa, they may be required to pay an additional fee of $330.

19. How long does it typically take for NVC processing to be completed?

The processing time can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of visa, the country, and the current workload of the National Visa Center (NVC). According to the U.S. Department of State, the processing time for immigrant visas may take anywhere from six to eight months. However, delays can occur and some cases may take longer.

20. Is there anything else I should know before beginning NVC processing of my visa application?

Yes. Before beginning the processing of your visa application, make sure to thoroughly review the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services websites, as well as any published guidance related to NVC processing requirements. It is important to follow the instructions carefully, provide all required documents, and pay all applicable fees promptly in order to ensure that your application is processed in a timely manner.