1. What are the criteria used to calculate visa numbers for the family-based preference categories in the Visa Bulletin?

The criteria used to calculate visa numbers for the family-based preference categories in the Visa Bulletin are determined by the number of immigrant visas limited to 226,000 per year, with seven categories or “preferences” within that limitation. The categories are divided further into subgroups based on the relationship between the petitioner and the foreign national beneficiary. The visa numbers for each category are allocated on a first come, first served basis, and can be affected by demand from other countries and by the number of applicants in each category.

2. How far in advance can I use the Visa Bulletin to predict my family-based visa application’s eligibility?

The Visa Bulletin provides an estimate of when a family-based visa application may become current. It is updated on a monthly basis and is typically published at least a month in advance. Therefore, you can use the Visa Bulletin to predict your family-based visa application’s eligibility up to two months in advance.

3. How often is the Visa Bulletin updated?

The Visa Bulletin is updated on the first Tuesday of every month.

4. What factors can limit my family-based visa application’s eligibility under the Visa Bulletin?

There are a number of factors that can limit a family-based visa application’s eligibility under the Visa Bulletin, such as the country of origin, the relationship to the sponsoring U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and the availability of visas for the particular preference category. The Visa Bulletin also lists priority dates for each category, which is the date when the U.S. Department of State began processing a particular visa application. The priority date must be before the date listed on the Visa Bulletin for an application to be eligible for processing. Additionally, if an applicant has another pending or previously granted immigrant visa, they may not be eligible to apply for a family-based visa.

5. Are there any additional documents I may need to apply or be approved for a family-based visa?

The required documents for each family-based visa are different, so it is important to consult the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for more information. Generally, documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, financial documents, and proof of legal status may be required in addition to the visa application form and supporting documents.

6. What is the “Current” cutoff date and what does this mean for family-based visa applications?

The current cutoff date for family-based visa applications is July 8, 2020. This means that those who filed a petition for a family-based green card before this date can begin the green card process. All new applications filed on or after this date are placed in the appropriate priority date queue and must wait until their priority date is current before they can proceed.

7. Are there any restrictions on how many family members can be included in a single family-based visa application?

Yes, there are restrictions on how many family members can be included in a single family-based visa application. The number of family members allowed to be included in the same petition depends on the type of visa being applied for. For example, a petition for an immediate relative visa (IR-1 or IR-2) can only include the principal applicant and their spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21.

8. How do I establish eligibility for inclusion in the family-based preference categories?

In order to establish eligibility for inclusion in the family-based preference categories, the individual must be able to prove their relationship to the petitioner (US citizen or lawful permanent resident) who is filing for them. This can be done by providing documents such as a Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, or other legal documents that show the relationship to the US citizen/LPR petitioner. Additionally, the individual must meet all other requirements of the family-based preference category.

9. What is the difference between the “Final Action” and “Dates for Filing” dates listed in the Visa Bulletin?

The Final Action date is the date when the Department of State will issue the immigrant visa or adjust status to permanent residence. The Dates for Filing date is the date when applicants can submit their applications for immigrant visas or adjustment of status to permanent residence.

10. How does a change in priority date affect my family-based visa application?

A change in priority date can affect your visa application in both positive and negative ways. If your priority date moves ahead of the “cut-off date” (the date established by the U.S. Department of State for visa availability), then you will be able to complete the process for your visa application more quickly. On the other hand, if your priority date is behind the “cut-off date”, then you may have to wait a longer period of time before you are able to complete the process for your visa application.

11. Does my priority date have to remain current in order to qualify for a family-based visa?

Yes, your priority date must remain current in order to qualify for a family-based visa. In order for a priority date to remain current, it must be before the published “cut-off date” on the State Department’s monthly Visa Bulletin.

12. Are there limitations on when an applicant can submit a family-based visa petition?

Yes, there are limitations on when an applicant can submit a family-based visa petition. Generally, immediate relatives of US citizens (spouse, unmarried children under 21 years old, and parents) can always submit a petition. However, for other family members, such as siblings of US citizens and certain family members of permanent residents, there are numerical limits and visa availability. Depending on the visa category, the visa may not be immediately available.

13. Are there any special requirements for applicants from certain countries or with certain statuses?

Yes, there are special requirements for certain countries and statuses. For example, applicants from certain countries may need to provide additional documents, such as a police clearance certificate, or may need to meet special criteria for visa eligibility. Additionally, applicants with certain statuses may need to provide different documentation than those without those statuses.

14. Are there any additional forms or documents that must be submitted with the NVC Processing for family-based visas?

Yes, depending on the visa category and the country of origin of the applicant, additional forms and documents may be required. These might include but are not limited to petitions, affidavits of support, and police certificates.

15. Are there any special considerations that may affect how long it takes to process a family-based visa application?

Yes. Special considerations such as the birthplace of the applicant, prior visa denials, visa overstays, or a criminal record could affect the length of time it takes to process a family-based visa application. Other considerations include the number of family members involved in the application, the availability of additional documents needed for processing, and the availability of interview slots at the local consulate or embassy.

16. What role does case status play in determining when an applicant is eligible to receive his or her visa number?

Case status plays a large role in determining when an applicant is eligible to receive a visa number. The applicant’s case must be approved and become current before they can receive a visa number, meaning that the Department of State must have issued the visa and that the applicant’s priority date must be earlier than the one listed on the Visa Bulletin. For those applying for employment-based visas, priority dates are based on the date when the appropriate labor certification application was filed. Once a visa number is available, the applicant can proceed to book an appointment with the appropriate consulate or embassy and complete the application process.

17. Are there any medical tests required for applicants of certain ages when applying for a family-based visa?

Yes, certain medical tests are required depending on the age of the applicant. Applicants aged 15 or older must undergo a medical exam as part of the application process. This may include a physical exam, tuberculosis screening, and other tests as ordered by the Civil Surgeon.

18. Is it possible to expedite or extend the processing time of a family-based visa application?

No, it is not possible to expedite or extend the processing time of a family-based visa application. The processing time of a family-based visa application depends on the availability of both documentation and resources. Therefore, it is not possible to speed up the process.

19. Are there any restrictions on who may travel with an applicant to the US when applying for a family-based visa?

Yes, there are restrictions on who may travel with an applicant to the US when applying for a family-based visa. The applicant must be accompanied by a spouse or parent. Other family members, such as children, siblings, or extended family, are not allowed to travel with the applicant.

20. How do I check the status of my case after filing my NVC Processing for a family-based visa application?

You can check the status of your case by visiting the National Visa Center (NVC) website. You may also contact the NVC by phone (+1 603-334-0700) or email ([email protected]).