Synopsis

Indian Green Card applicants hit the jackpot. While the January bulletin saw significant strides, February’s update brought only slight changes in priority dates across most employment-based preference categories. Yet, Indians witnessed a promising one-month advancement in the EB-1 category, whereas EB-2 and EB-3 categories remained unchanged.

As March 2024 progresses, all eyes turn to the Visa Bulletin, a pivotal document for immigrants, employers, and advocates alike. Beyond a mere update, this bulletin serves as a crucial guide through the intricate pathways of the U.S. immigration system. Its unveiling provides essential details on visa availability and priority dates, shaping immigration plans and schedules. In the complex journey of immigration, the Visa Bulletin stands as an invaluable resource, providing much-needed clarity and guidance through a sometimes perplexing process.

What is a Visa Bulletin ?

The Visa Bulletin, issued monthly by the U.S. Department of State, is a vital resource for immigrants and immigration professionals alike. It provides detailed information on the availability of immigrant visas, guiding individuals through preference categories and country-specific factors. With its two key sections, the Dates for Filing Visa Applications chart and the Application Final Action Dates chart, it offers a comprehensive view of visa accessibility. This structured approach aids in understanding visa eligibility and the process of visa progression.

Key highlights from the March 2024 Visa Bulletin :

The March 2024 Visa Bulletin reveals significant updates and trends, especially regarding employment-based preference categories : 

  • Limited Movement in Priority Dates : Indian Green Card Applicants Find Favorable Position. Despite significant advancements noted in the January bulletin, the February bulletin displayed minimal progress in priority date movement across most employment-based preference categories. Nonetheless, Indian applicants witnessed a one-month advancement in the EB-1 category, while the EB-2 and EB-3 categories remained unchanged.

 

  • Priority Date Requirements : In March 2024, applicants seeking to file an EB adjustment application must possess a priority date preceding the listed date for their preference category and country. The final action dates hold significant importance in processing immigrant visa or green card applications, dictating progress in the immigration process and varying based on visa category and country of chargeability.

 

Things to keep in mind :

  • The Dates for Filing Visa Applications chart provides the initial dates for applicants to submit their adjustment of status or immigrant visa applications. These dates hold significant importance for individuals strategizing their immigration journey, as timing is critical to ensure smooth application processing.

 

  • The Final Action Dates chart outlines the periods during which the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of State are authorized to process adjustment of status or immigrant visa applications, facilitating the granting of permanent residence (green card). These dates ascertain the suitability of applicants to progress in the immigration procedure.

 

  • The Visa Bulletin distributes visa numbers among different employment-based preference categories, such as Priority Workers (EB-1), Individuals with Advanced Degrees or Exceptional Ability (EB-2), Skilled Workers and Professionals (EB-3), Other Workers (EB-3 Other Workers), Specific Special Immigrants, and Job Creation Categories.Each category receives a designated percentage allocation of the global employment-based preference level.

 

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