What to Know Wednesday - How to Read the Visa Bulletin

How to Read the Visa Bulletin

Understanding the Visa Bulletin is essential for anyone navigating the U.S. immigration system—especially for those applying for family-based or employment-based green cards.  Issued monthly by the U.S. Department of State, the Visa Bulletin determines when applicants can move forward with their green card process.  However, many individuals and employers find it confusing at first glance.  Here is what you need to know:

1.  Final Action Dates vs. Dates for Filing

The Visa Bulletin includes two important charts for each visa category:

• Final Action Dates: These are the dates when green cards can actually be issued. If your priority date is earlier than the date listed in this chart, your application can be approved.
• Dates for Filing: These are the dates when applicants can submit their documentation to USCIS or the National Visa Center. This chart allows certain applicants to prepare and submit their paperwork ahead of final approval.

Each month, USCIS announces which chart applicants should follow when applying for adjustment of status from within the U.S.  That information is posted on the USCIS website after the Department of State releases the bulletin.

2.  Priority Dates

Your priority date is the date your petition (Form I-130 or I-140) was received by USCIS.  This date determines your place in line.  To move forward with your application, your priority date must be earlier than the date listed under your preference category and country of chargeability.

​3. Visa Categories and Country-Specific Limits

The bulletin is divided into family-sponsored and employment-based categories, with each category further broken down by preference levels (such as F1, F2A, EB-2, EB-3, etc.).  Some countries—such as India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines—have their own columns due to high demand and per-country visa limits.  If your country is listed separately, you must use the dates under that column.  If not, use the “All Chargeability Areas Except Those Listed” column.
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4.  Backlogs and Retrogression

When demand exceeds the number of available visas, a backlog occurs, and the dates listed in the bulletin move slowly—or even retrogress (move backward). Retrogression can happen at any time and may temporarily prevent applicants from completing the green card process.

5.  Staying Informed

The Visa Bulletin changes every month.  Staying updated ensures that you do not miss an opportunity to file or move forward in your process.  After the Department of State publishes the bulletin, USCIS updates its own website to indicate which chart to follow for the upcoming month.


Reading the Visa Bulletin correctly can help you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary delays.  Need help understanding your place in the green card process?  Contact us at [email protected] for guidance tailored to your immigration goals.

Stay informed and join us next week for more insights on “What to Know Wednesday.”

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help.  At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.
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The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.  To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].