Introduction:
The U.S. State Department recently released the September 2024 Visa Bulletin, and it brings important news for those waiting for employment-based green cards. Unfortunately, many applicants will face longer wait times due to a one-year setback in the EB-3 category. However, this retrogression does not affect applicants from India and China.
Table of Contents
One-Year Setback for EB-3 Visa Applicants
The EB-3 visa is for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers seeking permanent residency in the United States. According to the September Visa Bulletin, most countries, including Mexico and the Philippines, have seen a one-year retrogression in this category. This means the priority date for applicants from these countries has moved back to December 1, 2020.
India and China are unaffected in EB-3 Category
While most countries experienced this setback, the EB-3 category for India and China remains unchanged. Applicants from these two countries will not face additional delays, unlike others who will need to wait longer for their green cards.
Minimal Changes in EB-1 Category
For those in the EB-1 category, the September bulletin shows minimal changes. The priority dates for India and China stay the same—February 1, 2022, for India and November 1, 2022, for China. Applicants from other countries in the EB-1 category continue to enjoy “current” status, meaning their priority dates have not shifted.
Why These Changes Matter
The Visa Bulletin is crucial for green card applicants as it outlines when they can move forward with their applications. The one-year setback in the EB-3 category means many applicants will have to wait longer for their green cards, impacting their plans for permanent residency in the U.S. With the overall demand for employment-based visas on the rise, these delays could extend even further.
What to Do Next
If you’re affected by these changes, it’s essential to stay updated on future Visa Bulletins and consult with an immigration attorney for guidance. The situation could change again, and being informed will help you navigate the process more effectively.
FAQs:
1.What is the significance of the September 2024 US Visa Bulletin?
The September 2024 US Visa Bulletin shows a one-year setback in the EB-3 visa category for most countries, leading to longer wait times for green card applicants.
2.How are India and China affected by the EB-3 retrogression?
India and China are unaffected by the one-year setback in the EB-3 category, meaning applicants from these countries will not face additional delays.
3.What should I do if I’m impacted by the changes in the Visa Bulletin?
If you’re affected by these changes, it’s important to stay updated on future Visa Bulletins and consult an immigration attorney to understand how to proceed.
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