June 2024 Visa Bulletin: Good News for Family-Based Green Card Applicants

The U.S. Department of State has released the June 2024 Visa Bulletin, offering crucial updates for Green Card hopefuls. This month’s bulletin brings positive news for applicants in most family-based preference categories, with some welcome advancements in priority dates.

Let’s break down the key takeaways for those navigating the Green Card process.

Understanding the Visa Bulletin

The Visa Bulletin acts as a roadmap for Green Card applicants. It segregates information into two significant sections: Dates for Filing and Final Action Dates. These sections play a pivotal role in determining when applicants can submit their applications and the anticipated timeline for their processing, respectively.

• Dates for Filing: This indicates the earliest you can submit your application based on your visa category and country of origin.
• Final Action Dates: This provides an estimated timeframe for when your application might be processed and approved.

Navigating Through the Green Card Journey

For individuals already residing in the US, filing for Adjustment of Status is an option, while those living outside the US can apply for an Immigrant Visa. The June 2024 Visa Bulletin provides crucial guidance for both routes, ensuring applicants are well-informed about their next steps.

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Key Insights for Indian Applicants

In the June 2024 visa bulletin, Indian applicants keen on securing a green card must pay close attention to the specific dates mentioned for their respective visa categories. It’s imperative to ensure that their application date precedes the cut-off date listed in the bulletin to maintain eligibility.

Good News for Family-Based Preferences

June’s bulletin brings encouraging progress in most family-based preference categories. Unlike employment-based categories, USCIS will accept cases based on the “Date of Filing Chart” for these categories. Here’s a category-wise breakdown:

F1 (Unmarried Sons and Daughters of US Citizens): While dates remain unchanged for most countries, Mexico sees some movement with a jump to January 1, 2002.

F2A (Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents): Positive news! Dates advance for both Mexico (February 1, 2021) and all other countries (November 15, 2021).

F2B (Unmarried Sons and Daughters (21+) of Permanent Residents): Dates for Mexico progress to July 8, 2004, while the rest of the world remains at April 1, 2016. The Philippines sees no change with an October 22, 2011 date.

F3 (Married Sons and Daughters of US Citizens): This category experiences advancement across the board. Dates move to March 1, 2010, for most countries, December 1, 1999, for Mexico, and August 22, 2002, for the Philippines.

F4 (Brothers and Sisters of Adult US Citizens): Dates shift slightly forward to January 15, 2006.

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Employment-Based Categories Remain Steady

The June bulletin shows no changes in final action dates or dates for filing for employment-based categories (EB-1 through EB-5). It’s crucial to stay updated on future bulletins for any potential movement in these categories.

Annual Limits and Per-Country Caps

The bulletin also highlights annual limits for both family-sponsored (226,000) and employment-based (at least 140,000) preferences. Additionally, a 7% per-country cap ensures a fair distribution of visas.

Next Steps: Track Final Action Dates

Applicants should closely monitor “Final Action Dates” to understand when they might be able to proceed with their applications. These dates can move based on visa availability, potentially allowing earlier filings.

For Employment-Based Applicants (India)

• EB-1: Remains unchanged on March 1, 2021.
• EB-2: Currently at April 15, 2012.
• EB-3 & Other Workers: Both categories were held on August 15, 2012.
• EB-4 & Certain Religious Workers: November 1, 2020.
• EB-5 (Unreserved & Set-Aside): Dates vary, with some reflecting ongoing availability.

Must Read: USCIS Expands Fast-Track Green Card Options for Skilled Workers

Dates for Filing (Employment-Based)

These range from current to specific cut-offs in 2020 and 2022, allowing strategic application filing.

Remember, the Visa Bulletin is updated monthly. Stay informed and consult with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance on your Green Card journey.