The U.S. State Department released the October Visa Bulletin, which brings several significant changes that could impact your immigration process. In this post, we will break down the key updates, explain their implications, and provide a comprehensive guide to help you understand what these changes mean for you.
Key Updates in the October 2024 Visa Bulletin
China EB-3 Professionals/Skilled Workers Retrogression
One of the most notable changes in the October 2024 Visa Bulletin is the retrogression of the China EB-3 Professionals and Skilled Workers category. The Final Action date has moved back by five months to April 1, 2020, and the Date for Filing has retrogressed by almost eight months to November 15, 2020. This unusual retrogression at the beginning of the fiscal year could significantly delay green card applications for Chinese nationals in this category.
Worldwide EB-3 Professionals/Skilled Workers Advancement
In contrast, the Worldwide EB-3 Professionals and Skilled Workers category has seen advancements. The Final Action date has moved forward by almost two years to November 15, 2022, while the Date for Filing has advanced by one month to March 1, 2023. This is good news for applicants from countries other than China and India, as it means faster processing times.
EB-5 Unreserved Categories
The EB-5 Unreserved categories (C5, T5, I5, and R5) have seen mixed changes. For China, the Final Action date has advanced by seven months to July 15, 2016, but the Date for Filing has retrogressed by three months to October 1, 2016. For India, the Final Action date has moved forward by more than one year to January 1, 2022, while the Date for Filing remains at April 1, 2022. These adjustments will affect investors looking to obtain green cards through the EB-5 program.
USCIS Dates for Filing
USCIS has announced that it will honor the Dates for Filing chart in October, meaning applicants can file their adjustment of status applications based on these dates. This is an important update for those looking to adjust their status while residing in the U.S.
Expiration of EB-4 Non-Minister Religious Worker Program
The EB-4 Non-Minister Religious Worker program is set to expire on September 30, 2024. If Congress does not extend the program, it will become unavailable after midnight on September 29, 2024. This means no new immigrant visas or adjustment of status applications can be approved under this category unless reauthorization is passed.
Detailed Breakdown of Final Action Dates for October 2024
EB-1 Category
China: Advances by one week to November 8, 2022.
India: Remains at February 1, 2022.
All Other Countries: Current.
EB-2 Category
China: Advances by three weeks to March 22, 2020.
India: Remains at July 15, 2012.
All Other Countries: Remains at March 15, 2023.
EB-3 Professionals and Skilled Workers
China: Retrogresses by five months to April 1, 2020.
India: Advances by one week to November 1, 2012.
All Other Countries: Advances by almost two years to November 15, 2022.
EB-3 Other Workers
China: January 1, 2017.
India: Advances by one week to November 1, 2012.
Other Countries: December 1, 2020.
EB-4 Category
All Countries: January 1, 2021.
Note: The EB-4 Non-Minister Religious Worker program will become unavailable on September 30, 2024, unless reauthorized by Congress.
EB-5 Unreserved (Regional Center and Non-Regional Center)
China: Advances by seven months to July 15, 2016.
India: Advances by more than one year to January 1, 2022.
All Other Countries: Current.
EB-5 Set-Asides
Rural: Current for all countries.
High Unemployment: Current for all countries.
Infrastructure: Current for all countries.
Detailed Breakdown of Dates for Filing for October 2024
EB-1 Category
China: January 1, 2023.
India: April 15, 2022.
All Other Countries: Current.
EB-2 Category
China: October 1, 2020.
India: January 1, 2013.
All Other Countries: August 1, 2023.
EB-3 Professionals and Skilled Workers
China: Retrogresses by almost eight months to November 15, 2020.
India: Advances by over seven months to June 8, 2013.
All Other Countries: Advances by one month to March 1, 2023.
EB-3 Other Workers
China: January 1, 2018.
India: Advances by over seven months to June 8, 2013.
Other Countries: May 22, 2021.
EB-4 Category
All Countries: February 1, 2021.
EB-5 Unreserved (Regional Center and Non-Regional Center)
China: October 1, 2016.
India: April 1, 2022.
All Other Countries: Current.
EB-5 Set-Asides
Rural: Current for all countries.
High Unemployment: Current for all countries.
Infrastructure: Current for all countries.
What Should You Do Next?
Stay Informed: Regularly check the Visa Bulletin for updates.
Consult Experts: contact Panteva Law Group to get personalized advice.
Prepare Documents: Ensure all your documents are in order and ready for submission.
Monitor Legislation: Keep an eye on legislative changes, especially those affecting categories like the EB-4 Non-Minister Religious Worker program.
Conclusion
The October 2024 Visa Bulletin brings a mix of advancements and retrogressions across various categories. Understanding these changes is vital for planning your immigration strategy. Retrogressions can delay your application, while advancements can expedite it. Stay informed, consult with experts, and prepare your documents to navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration process, understanding how these changes affect your specific situation. At Panteva Law Group, we are here to guide you through every step, ensuring you have the support and expertise needed to manage these changes and secure your immigration status with confidence. For more detailed insights and updates, subscribe to our newsletter or visit our website regularly. Stay ahead in your immigration journey.