The Visa Bulletin is a monthly document published by the U.S. Department of State that provides information on the availability of immigrant visas based on preference category and applicant nationality. Here’s how to understand the Visa Bulletin:

Priority Date: The Priority Date is the date when the immigration or employment-based petition was filed, which establishes eligibility for the immigrant visa. This date determines when a decision can be made regarding the visa application.

Preference Categories: The Visa Bulletin divides immigrant visas into different preference categories, such as immediate relatives, family preference, employment-based preference, etc. Each category has a limit on available visas and a processing priority.

Date Chart: The Visa Bulletin includes a date chart showing the current priority dates being processed for each preference category and nationality. These dates are referred to as “Dates for Filing” and “Final Action Dates.” “Dates for Filing” indicate when an applicant is eligible to file for adjustment of status or an immigrant visa, while “Final Action Dates” indicate when an immigrant visa is available to be issued.

Retrogression Chart: In some cases, the Visa Bulletin may show a retrogression in priority dates for certain categories and nationalities due to a high number of applications. This means that priority dates move backward in time, potentially resulting in delays in processing.

Explanations and Notes: The Visa Bulletin also includes detailed explanations and notes about changes in priority dates, as well as additional information on the processing status of immigrant visas in different regions of the world.

At Benme Legal, we are committed to keeping you informed about the dates relevant to your case through the legal assistant assigned to you.