April Visa Bulletin update brings visa availability
As more priority dates become current, many individuals are now eligible to file for adjustment of status or proceed with consular processing.
The April Visa Bulletin brings long-awaited movement across several family and employment-based categories, opening new opportunities for applicants who have been stuck in backlogs for months or even years. Understanding what this month’s changes mean and acting quickly can make all the difference in keeping your immigration journey on track.
Family-based visa updates
The April bulletin shows movement across several family‑based categories. Here are some highlights drawn directly from the bulletin:
F2A (Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents)
Final Action Date: February 1, 2024, for most countries
Dates for Filing: Current for all countries
The bulletin also clarifies that for April, F2A numbers exempt from the per-country limit are authorized with priority dates earlier than February 1, 2023. This means many applicants can move forward immediately. For a whole list, please click HERE!
Employment-based visa updates
EB‑1
Current for most countries
China and India on April 1, 2023
EB‑2
Current for most countries
China: September 1, 2021
India: July 15, 2014
EB‑3
June 1, 2024, for most countries
China: June 15, 2021
India: November 15, 2013
The bulletin notes that these advancements are intentional to ensure visa numbers are used this fiscal year efficiently. To review all of the updates, visit the official page.
Your next steps
If the April bulletin shows your priority date is current or within reach. Once a visa becomes available, NVC can schedule your interview. Here’s how to move forward:
1. Verify your priority date
2. Prepare your adjustment of status packet
3. If you’re abroad: complete NVC requirements
What is the Visa Bulletin?
The U.S. Department of State publishes the Visa Bulletin every month. It tells green card applicants when they can take the next step, depending on a few key factors:
Your preference category, which can be family-based or employment-based,
Your country of chargeability
Your priority date
Because the number of green cards issued each year is capped, many applicants must wait months or years before a visa becomes available. When the Visa Bulletin shows that your priority date is “current,” you may finally be eligible to file your adjustment of status or complete consular processing.
Make sure to move fast! The bulletin warns that “retrogression may be necessary later in the fiscal year,” and applicants should not delay. If your priority date is now current, or if you’re unsure how these changes affect your case, MCD Immigration Law is here to guide you. We’ll review your category, confirm your eligibility, and help you take the next step with confidence. Contact us today!
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, please consult an immigration attorney.