US Green Card Applications: The US Department of State has announced significant delays for those awaiting employment-based green cards in the September 2024 USCIS Visa Bulletin. The most impactful change is a substantial retrogression in the EB-3 category, affecting applicants from various regions. This development was expected, in line with earlier forecasts by the State Department.
The September Visa Bulletin has introduced a major shift in the EB-3 category, where applicants from All Chargeability Areas, Mexico, and the Philippines will face a one-year retrogression, pushing the priority date back to December 1, 2020. Furthermore, the Other Worker category for All Chargeability Areas and Mexico will experience a one-month retrogression, also moving the priority date to December 1, 2020.
While most categories in the September 2024 bulletin remain stable, the significant retrogression in the EB-3 category stands out, leaving many applicants eagerly anticipating possible improvements in the October bulletin.
Grasping the Visa Bulletin is essential for those pursuing Green Cards, as it offers critical insights into the timeline for adjusting immigration status and determining eligibility based on when an application was submitted. The bulletin serves as a roadmap for the Green Card process, highlighting two key sections.
Dates for Filing : This section outlines the earliest possible date that applicants can submit their adjustment of status or immigrant visa applications. It assists applicants in identifying when they are eligible to proceed with their filing according to their visa category and country of origin.
Final Action Dates : These dates provide an estimate of the waiting period for application approval, ultimately leading to permanent residency. They serve as a queue based on visa category and nationality, showing when applicants can anticipate their applications being processed.
However, an important note applies to employment-based green card (EB) adjustments. To be eligible for filing in August 2024, applicants must have an application date that falls before the specific date listed in the bulletin for their category and country.
Final action dates are crucial in the processing of applications, as they differ based on visa type and nationality, directly affecting the timeline of the green card application process and the potential waiting period. For those navigating the Green Card process, understanding and keeping track of these dates is vital.
Key Updates from the September 2024 Visa Bulletin
Family-Based Applications
The Visa Bulletin details the preference categories for family-sponsored immigrants, offering essential guidance for navigating the Green Card process. These categories include :
– First Preference (F1) : Unmarried Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens
– Second Preference (F2) : Spouses and Children, and Unmarried Sons and Daughters of Permanent Residents
– F2A : Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents
– F2B : Unmarried Sons and Daughters (21 years and older) of Permanent Residents
For further information, visit :
Economic Times – September 2024 US Visa Bulletin
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